The United States is currently experiencing the glow of the first full moon of summer, as it reaches its peak today, July 10, 2025! Look up, and you'll see a truly radiant orb, hanging beautifully low in the night sky. This July full moon is a highly anticipated spectacle for millions across the US. It's not just a pretty sight; this celestial event is steeped in centuries of folklore and natural rhythms, promising both a beautiful display and a connection to ancient traditions. Let's dive into why it's called a Buck Moon and the precise moments it peaked so you can fully appreciate one of summer's most amazing sky-gazing events.
When is the Full Moon in July 2025?
Mark your calendars, or rather, look outside now! The full moon in July 2025 is occurring today, Thursday, July 10th. It reached its moment of peak illumination at 20:36 Universal Coordinated Time (UTC). So, if you live across the United States, this means a bright evening sky greeted you as the moon becomes fully visible. While the exact moment of fullness was brief, the good news is that the moon will appear entirely round and brilliant for about three days centered around this date. That means you still have ample opportunity to observe this magnificent full moon in the US.
Why is July’s Full Moon Called the Buck Moon?
The Buck Moon is a well-known name for the full moon in July. Several Native American tribes, including the Algonquin, are the originators of this intriguing name. In order to identify the changing seasons, the tribe used to pay close attention to the natural environment around them.
The name Buck Moon specifically refers to the period when new antlers began to emerge on male deer or bucks, often pushing out in fuzzy, velvety coatings. This annual phenomenon symbolizes regeneration and growth.
Other names for the July full moon are as follows:
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The Thunder Moon, as there are frequent midsummer thunderstorms.
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The Hay Moon, as it is the season for harvesting hay.
🌕 July 10: The Full Buck Moon is coming! 🦌
— Star Walk (@StarWalk) July 8, 2025
Find out what makes this Moon special in the video — and don’t forget to save it so you’re ready for July’s sky show.
Happy Moon-watching! 🌝
Learn more about the July Full Moon: https://t.co/XvaE9nAVUU
#moon #fullmoon… pic.twitter.com/AXYQjy9N0F
What Time is the July Full Moon in the US?
To know when the Buck Moon was at its brightest, here are the approximate peak times across various US time zones on July 10, 2025:
Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) | 4:36 PM |
Central Daylight Time (CDT) | 3:36 PM |
Mountain Daylight Time (MDT) | 2:36 PM |
Pacific Daylight Time (PDT) | 1:36 PM |
Check Out: Seasons of the Year in the United States: What Season is It in the US Now?
Keep in mind that while the moon peaked in the afternoon for many, it will become most striking as it rises above the horizon around sunset. So, look towards the southeast after dusk to witness the impressive sight. Its low arc in the summer sky might make it appear larger and take on a captivating orange or yellow hue due to the way moonlight interacts with Earth's atmosphere.
How to Get the Best View of the Buck Moon Tonight?
Seeing the Buck Moon tonight is a simple pleasure, but a little planning can make it even better. Find an open spot away from bright city lights if you can. A park, a quiet field, or even your backyard can work wonders. Look for a clear view of the southeastern horizon as the sun sets. The moon will be rising in that direction. On top of that, it often appears larger and more colorful when it's low in the sky.
Binoculars or a small telescope can offer a closer look at its craters and features. But the Buck Moon is truly magnificent to the naked eye. So, grab a comfy chair, perhaps a warm drink, and enjoy the show!
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