July 2025’s Buck Moon rises July 10 — the farthest full moon from the sun this year. Learn why it’s special, when to see it, and how to capture full moon in july 2025.
1. What Is the Buck Moon?
The Buck Moon is the name traditionally given to the full moon of July, rooted in Native American and early Colonial history. It’s named after the time of year when male deer (bucks) begin regrowing their antlers, typically covered in velvety soft fur. But this moon is known by other names too — such as the Thunder Moon, for the frequent summer thunderstorms, and the Hay Moon, signaling the start of midsummer harvest.
The Buck Moon is one of the most iconic full moons of the year, not just for its name but for its seasonal timing. As it typically occurs during the heart of summer in the Northern Hemisphere, it often coincides with clear skies and long days, making moon gazing easier and more accessible.
This year, in July 2025, the Buck Moon will be even more special. It will appear on Wednesday, July 10, and it happens to be the farthest full moon from the sun this year. This rare alignment occurs just a few days after Earth reaches aphelion, the point in its orbit furthest from the sun, making the moon visually unique and scientifically intriguing.
As with all full moons, it occurs when the moon sits opposite the sun in our sky, reflecting its light back to Earth in full. The result? A glowing, round disc visible shortly after sunset, rising in the eastern sky and drifting through the night until it sets at dawn.
2. Why Is the July 2025 Buck Moon Special?
The 2025 Buck Moon isn’t just another full moon — it’s part of a rare cosmic alignment that makes it scientifically notable and visually spectacular.
This full moon rises just a week after Earth reaches aphelion — the point in its orbit when it is farthest from the sun. Because the moon is on the opposite side of Earth from the sun during a full moon, this means the Buck Moon of July 2025 is the farthest full moon from the sun this year. The result? It appears slightly dimmer and smaller to telescopic observers, although this change is subtle to the naked eye.
But what’s even more intriguing is that this year marks a Major Lunar Standstill. This event happens every 18.6 years, when the moon’s orbital tilt reaches its extreme. During a standstill year, the moon’s path across the sky swings dramatically higher or lower than usual, depending on the season.
Because July is close to the summer solstice, the Buck Moon appears especially low on the horizon throughout the night. This not only adds to its dramatic visual appeal but also enhances the classic moon illusion — the psychological effect that makes the moon look enormous when it’s near the horizon.
So in 2025, you’re not just seeing a full moon. You’re witnessing the interplay between orbital mechanics, distance from the sun, and ancient celestial cycles — all in a single night.
3. When and Where to See the Buck Moon
The Buck Moon of July 2025 will reach its fullest phase at 4:36 p.m. EDT (20:36 UTC) on Wednesday, July 10. However, this moment occurs before moonrise in most parts of the world, so the best time to view it will be shortly after sunset.
In the United States, for example, people on the East Coast will see the moon rise around 8:50 p.m., depending on their specific location. Those on the West Coast can expect it a bit later. In general, the moon rises in the east and sets in the west, following a low arc across the sky due to its alignment with the summer sun.
To make the most of this experience:
- Choose a location with a clear eastern horizon — hilltops, beaches, or open fields are ideal.
- Bring a camera or telescope to appreciate the details of the lunar surface, especially the dark plains known as lunar maria.
- Consider using moonrise calculators or astronomy apps to track local timing.
Don’t forget that this full moon will appear larger and more colorful near the horizon due to atmospheric distortion and Rayleigh scattering, which causes the moon to look orange or gold — especially in areas with humidity, haze, or summer heat.
4. How Did the Buck Moon Get Its Name?
The term Buck Moon comes from Algonquin-speaking Native American tribes, who marked time by naming each full moon. These names were tied to seasonal changes, natural events, or agricultural cycles.
In July, male deer begin to grow their new antlers, which are soft and velvety in early stages. This growth signaled not just the middle of summer but also a crucial phase in the life cycle of one of North America’s most important animals.
Other cultural names for the July moon include:
- Thunder Moon: Due to common summer storms
- Hay Moon: In Europe, linked to midsummer hay harvests
- Salmon Moon: Used by Pacific Northwest tribes, linked to salmon runs
- Raspberry or Berry Moon: Based on berry harvest seasons
- Mead Moon or Herb Moon: From Celtic traditions
Each of these names paints a picture of how ancient communities connected lunar phases to survival, spirituality, and storytelling. Even today, many people use these moon names in calendars, astrology, and ritual observances, carrying forward a legacy that’s both celestial and deeply human.
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5. Why Does the Moon Look So Big at Moonrise?
Have you ever stared at a rising full moon and thought, “Wow, it looks huge tonight”? That’s not a trick of the telescope — it’s a trick of the mind. It’s called the Moon Illusion.
When the moon is low on the horizon, our brains perceive it as being larger than when it’s high overhead. This illusion isn’t caused by changes in distance or size — it’s purely psychological. Objects near the horizon are seen in the context of trees, buildings, or landscapes, which gives our brains visual cues to compare. When the moon is up in the sky, floating alone, there’s nothing to compare it to, and it seems smaller.
Atmospheric conditions also play a part. When the moon rises, the light has to pass through more of Earth’s atmosphere, which filters out the blue wavelengths. This gives the moon a warm, orange or reddish tint — especially during summer evenings with hazy or humid air.
The July 2025 Buck Moon is a perfect example. Because it rises close to sunset, and rides low through the night, it’s an ideal opportunity to witness the Moon Illusion in action. Get your camera ready — or just enjoy the view with your own eyes.
6. How to Photograph the Next Full Moon
Photographing the full moon might seem simple — but capturing its beauty takes a bit of planning. The Buck Moon is especially photogenic because of its low position and warm hues, so here are a few tips to get the best shot:
- Timing is everything: The moon looks biggest and most colorful at moonrise. Check your local moonrise time and be ready 15 minutes in advance.
- Use the landscape: Frame your photo with foreground elements like trees, buildings, or mountains to add scale and depth.
- Camera settings:
- Use a tripod to avoid blur.
- Set ISO low (100–200) to reduce grain.
- Aperture around f/8 for clarity.
- Shutter speed depends on brightness: start at 1/125s and adjust.
- Use zoom or telephoto lenses: To capture moon details like craters and maria.
- Avoid full darkness: The contrast is strongest during twilight, when the sky still has some ambient light.
Whether you’re a smartphone shooter or DSLR enthusiast, the Buck Moon is an annual moment worth preserving — especially this year with its added celestial significance.
7. What Other Events Coincide With the Buck Moon?
The July Buck Moon doesn’t rise alone. It brings with it a sky filled with summer activity. In 2025, here are some exciting things to look out for:
- Mars & Saturn Conjunction: These two bright planets will be visible in the same sky region as the moon on July 10.
- Alpha Capricornids Meteor Shower: Active from July 12 to August 23, peaking around July 30.
- Delta Aquariids Meteor Shower: Begins mid-July and peaks by the end of the month.
- Milky Way Core Visibility: In dark-sky areas, the dense core of the Milky Way is visible near the moon’s path.
- Apollo 11 Anniversary: July 20 marks 56 years since the first moon landing.
If you’re into astrophotography, use this opportunity to capture planets near the full moon or star trails as the moon rises and travels across the sky. For casual stargazers, just watching these events unfold from your backyard or rooftop can be a moment of awe and wonder.
Final Word
The July 2025 Buck Moon isn’t just a full moon. It’s a celestial celebration steeped in tradition, scientific wonder, and seasonal beauty. With its timing near aphelion, occurrence during a Major Lunar Standstill, and alignment with several other sky events, it promises a night sky show worth staying up for.
Whether you’re a seasoned skywatcher, a curious parent showing the moon to your kids, or a photographer looking for that perfect lunar shot, July 10, 2025, offers a rare blend of science, folklore, and visual splendor.
Mark your calendar, set your alarms, and enjoy the view. The next moon may rise — but this one will be remembered.
