The July Buck Moon 2025 is almost here — and it promises to be one of the most spectacular full moons of the year. Rising on Wednesday, July 10, this full moon will delight stargazers and photographers alike with its brilliant glow, warm hues, and rare positioning in the sky. Let’s break down everything you need to know about the July Buck Moon 2025, from what it is, why it looks different this year, and the best way to see it.
What is the July Buck Moon 2025?
The July Buck Moon 2025 is the full moon that occurs in the month of July. It gets its name from the time of year in North America when male deer, or bucks, start growing their antlers. Traditionally, this full moon has also been called the Thunder Moon, thanks to the summer storms that often accompany it.
Astronomically, a full moon happens when the moon is directly opposite the sun from Earth’s perspective, fully illuminated by sunlight. This month, the full moon occurs at 4:36 p.m. EDT (2036 GMT) on July 10 — though you won’t see it until it rises after sunset in your local time zone.
When and Where to Watch the July Buck Moon 2025
In New York City, the July Buck Moon 2025 rises at about 8:53 p.m. local time, shortly after sunset. Exact times will vary depending on your location, so check trusted sites like timeanddate.com or in-the-sky.org for the moonrise in your area.
The best time to see it is just after it appears above the horizon. Not only will it look bigger and more colorful, but you’ll also experience the famous Moon Illusion, which makes the moon seem larger when it’s low in the sky.
Why the July Buck Moon 2025 Looks Different
This year’s July Buck Moon 2025 is even more special because of a rare phenomenon called a Major Lunar Standstill. Every 18.6 years, the moon’s orbit is at its most tilted relative to Earth’s equator. This causes the moon to appear unusually low in the summer sky — and unusually high in the winter sky.
Since the full moon in July happens near the summer solstice, when the sun is at its highest during the day, the moon follows a very low path across the night sky. As a result, the July Buck Moon 2025 will appear especially low and striking after sunset.
What Colors to Expect During the July Buck Moon 2025
When you watch the July Buck Moon 2025 rise, you might notice it glowing gold or even reddish-orange near the horizon. This happens because of Rayleigh scattering — the same process that colors sunsets. Light reflected from the moon travels through more of Earth’s atmosphere when it’s low, scattering blue wavelengths and letting red and orange hues dominate.
Why This Full Moon Is Farther from the Sun
Another fascinating fact about the July Buck Moon 2025 is that it occurs less than a week after Earth’s aphelion, the point in its orbit farthest from the sun. This means that the moon is also at its most distant full moon relative to the sun this year. Though it doesn’t make the moon appear smaller or bigger to us, it’s an interesting celestial milestone.
How to Photograph the July Buck Moon 2025
For astrophotographers, the July Buck Moon 2025 offers a fantastic opportunity. Here are some tips:
- Use a tripod to stabilize your shot.
- Shoot during moonrise, when the moon is low and colored.
- Include a landmark in your composition for scale and drama.
- Use a telephoto lens to capture more detail.
Don’t forget that the Moon Illusion can make your photos even more impressive when taken near the horizon.
Celebrate Apollo 11 with the July Buck Moon 2025
July also marks the 56th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing on July 20, 1969, when Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin walked on the moon while Michael Collins orbited above. To honor this milestone, try to locate the six Apollo landing sites on the moon’s surface.
With the naked eye, you can find the general regions, but a telescope with at least a 6-inch aperture will help you see the lunar seas and craters where these missions touched down. The July Buck Moon 2025 is a perfect night to reflect on humanity’s achievements in space.
Key Facts About the July Buck Moon 2025
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Moon Date & Time | July 10, 2025 at 4:36 p.m. EDT (2036 GMT) |
| Moonrise in NYC | Around 8:53 p.m. local time |
| Alternative Names | Thunder Moon |
| Special Phenomena | Major Lunar Standstill, Moon Illusion, Rayleigh Scattering |
| Historical Note | 56th anniversary of Apollo 11 (July 20) |
Tips for Enjoying the July Buck Moon 2025
- Find a clear horizon — Buildings and trees can block your view when the moon is low.
- Bring binoculars or a telescope — These can help you see more details on the moon’s surface.
- Check the weather — Clouds can ruin your view, so find a night with clear skies.
- Go to a dark-sky location — Light pollution can dim the moon’s brilliance.
- Take your time — The moon will rise gradually, and its colors can change over the course of an hour.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss the July Buck Moon 2025
The July Buck Moon 2025 combines several rare phenomena — a Major Lunar Standstill, aphelion timing, and the Moon Illusion — into one unforgettable lunar event. Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or just looking for a moment of wonder under the night sky, this full moon will not disappoint.
It’s also a moment to connect with history, remembering the bravery of the Apollo astronauts and our ongoing fascination with the moon. Grab your camera, find a good spot, and share this experience with friends and family.
Final Thoughts on the July Buck Moon 2025
On the night of July 10, 2025, step outside and look up. The July Buck Moon 2025 won’t just light up the sky — it will light up your imagination. From its golden glow to its unusually low arc, this full moon is nature’s way of reminding us of the beauty and mystery of the universe.
