The July full moon of 2025, known as the Buck Moon, will rise tonight (10 July), treating skywatchers around the world to a stunning lunar display.
It will reach peak illumination at 4:37 p.m. EDT (2037 GMT), though this exact moment won’t be visible everywhere. The best view depends on your local moonrise time.
In New York City, for instance, the Buck Moon will rise at 8:53 p.m. EDT—just 25 minutes after sunset at 8:28 p.m. In northern mid-latitudes like New York, Chicago, San Francisco, London, Paris, or Tokyo, longer summer days push sunsets and moonrises later into the evening.
When and Where to Watch the Buck Moon
The Buck Moon will reach its peak brightness on 11 July at 02:06 UTC. Skies permitting, viewers around the world will get a clear view of this mid-summer full moon. Known for its soft glow and seasonal meaning, the July full moon promises a beautiful sight. In 2025, the Buck Moon arrives during a period of warmth and natural change. The evening horizons will glow with a silver light, captivating the eyes of stargazers and nature enthusiasts.
Why It's the Buck Moon
The name "Buck Moon" coincides with a process in the animal kingdom. It is when male deer start to develop new antlers. The first antlers, still furred with soft velvet, represent strength, rebirth, and renewal.
This full moon has fascinated humans from diverse cultures for centuries. It symbolises not just wildlife activity but also a season of harvest and plenty.
Deer, moose, elk, and reindeer—animals of the family Cervidae—lose and regrow their antlers annually. The Buck Moon is the time it occurs in nature's calendar.
Other Names Based on Culture
In many Native American cultures, it's referred to as the Thunder Moon. That is due to heavy summer storms that usually appear in July. The names Salmon Moon or Raspberry Moon are used by other tribes to emphasize food sources that are plentiful at the time.
The Celts called it the Wyrt Moon, Herb Moon, or Mead Moon. These indicate the period when herbs were harvested, preserved, or fermented as drinks. The Anglo-Saxons referred to it as the Hay Moon, marking the beginning of haymaking time.
A Seasonal Symbol of Growth and Gathering
Beyond its glow, the Buck Moon symbolises activity and preparation. Bucks develop antlers, farmers cut hay, and herbalists harvest plants for storage. It reflects a time of effort and nature’s reward.
As 11 July nears, many will step outside to admire this moon. It is more than a celestial display—it’s a reminder of the rhythm of summer and the strength found in each season's turn.
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