Eyes to the Sky: Did You Know the 12 Full Moons Have Names?

That's one thing about Texas. The skies are big and bright. I've seen some of the best celestial shows right in my own backyard. When the night sky isn't cloudy and it's wide-open, the moons in Texas are pretty spectacular too.

When the moon is full it can light up the entire sky, now that's powerful. The full moon has been used to track seasons since ancient times. What's also cool is that each full moon not only has its own name but its own characteristics. It's cool to see how much Native Americans had to do with the names. If you're a fan of the night sky, keep reading as we take a look at all 12 full moons throughout the year.

Get our free mobile app

LOOK: THE 12 FULL MOONS HAVE NAMES

January - The Wolf Moon

According to the Farmers Almanac, this moon gets its name from the hungry wolves heard howling this time of year. A spectacular moon.

February - The Snow Moon

This moon is named simply after plentiful snowfall. Some also call it the Bear Moon referencing the month most bear cubs are born.

March - The Worm Moon

The last full moon of winter is referred to by some as the Worm Moon indicating when earthworms come to the surface due to the warming soil. Check out the above video for more history on this moon.

April - The Pink Moon

The color of this moon seems to stem from the color of the pink wildflowers that come up in the Spring. Other names for this moon include the Seed Moon, the Growing Moon, and the Budding Moon.

May - The Flower Moon

Both the April and May full moons are named with regard to spring budding. This moon is named after all the flowers blooming in the spring. It's also known as the Planting Moon or the Egg Laying Moon.

June - The Strawberry Moon

Many of the moon names have to do with the Native Americans and what those seasons would bring. The Strawberry Moon would shine during the season that berries would ripen and could be gathered.

July - The Buck Moon

This moon's name comes from another Native American reference. It occurs during the season when antlers on buck's foreheads being to grow out.

August - The Sturgeon Moon

Fishing was an important way of life for Native Americans. This moon gets its name from the lake sturgeon that were fished. It's also known as the Barley Moon and Fruit Moon.

September - The Harvest Moon

This is the moon that lit up the night sky during the harvest season for Native Americans. Other names include the Wine Moon and Barley Moon.

October - The Hunters Moon

This month traditionally is when the wild game was hunted and slaughtered for food. Also known as the Falling Leaves Moon and Freezing Moon.

November - The Beaver Moon

Beavers being seen getting ready for the winter months is where this moon gets its name. Also known to some as the Frost Moon.

December - The Cold Moon

Guess where this moon gets its name. You got it. The coldness at the beginning of the winter season.

There's one thing I learned from all this. I didn't realize how influential the Native Americans were on these names that are still used today. So, the next time you look up at the night sky, check out the moon. They're a sight to see here in Texas.

It's easy to get lost looking into the vastness of space. Keep your eyes to the skies. Who knows, you might even catch a glimpse of the Millennium Falcon, after all, it's rumored that Han Solo is basically a Texan. Keep reading to see what I mean.