It's a busy day in our newsroom as we prepare for one of the shortest days on record for August 5th. At just 1.25 milliseconds under the 86,400-second mark, it won't be noticeable, but it's part of a puzzling trend that's baffling scientists: Earth is spinning faster.
Other stories for today include a deep dive into space hurricanes, Rocket Lab launching a private Japanese radar satellite this evening and a look at the weird and wacky late 90's sci-fi series "Lexx."
We're diving into August with a lineup that blends subtle planetary challenges and bright lunar beauty. Saturn leads the way early in the week, not just as a showpiece, but as your guide to spotting distant Neptune through binoculars. On Thursday, asteroid Pallas reaches opposition near the Dolphin constellation, offering a rewarding telescope target. And by Saturday, the full Sturgeon Moon lights up the evening sky in Capricornus. Whether you're tracing planets or soaking up moonlight, this week has something celestial in store.
Late Monday night, Saturn will shine low in the southeastern sky. Look just a finger's width to its upper left to spot faint, bluish Neptune through binoculars or a small telescope. The pair is gradually drifting apart, so catch them close while you can.
The asteroid Pallas reaches its closest and brightest for the year, shining near Zeta Delphini in the small constellation Delphinus. At magnitude 9.5, it's visible through backyard telescopes. Look east after dusk between the bright stars Deneb and Altair.
August's full moon peaks at 3:55 a.m. EDT (07:55 GMT), just before moonset. Watch it rise nearly full Friday evening and again Saturday night. Low on the summer ecliptic, it glows among the stars of Capricornus. Known as the Sturgeon Moon, it also goes by Wild Rice Moon, Blueberry Moon, and Flying Up Moon in various Indigenous traditions.
The Sturgeon Moon rises full on Saturday, August 9, marking the last full moon of meteor season. Named for seasonal fishing patterns in North America, it also carries Indigenous names like Miine Giizis (Blueberry Moon) and Seskéha (Freshness Moon). It will appear especially low and golden on the horizon — perfect for moonrise photography or a quiet summer evening under its glow.
Want to explore more? Check out our ultimate guide to observing the moon for tips and tools to get the most out of each phase.
