Buck Moon 2025: How To Best See July's Incredible Lunar Display
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
Skygazers across the United States will soon have the chance to observe one of summer's most iconic celestial events: the annual "buck moon," which will rise in mid-July and shine brightly throughout the night.
Named for the period when male deer (bucks) begin to grow new antlers, this year's buck moon is expected to offer a stunning spectacle as it rises just after sunset on Thursday, July 10, 2025, and remains visible well into the early hours of the next morning.
What Is the Buck Moon?
The buck moon is the traditional name for July's full moon and dates back to Native American, Colonial American and European traditions. It marks the period when young bucks begin developing their antlers, a symbol of seasonal growth and renewal in the natural world.
The Maine Farmer's Almanac popularized many of the full moon names in the 1930s, with the "buck moon" tied closely to midsummer and the rhythms of North American wildlife. Other names for the July moon include the "thunder moon" for the month's frequent storms and the "hay moon," associated with peak haymaking season.
The full Buck Moon rising behind the Statue of Liberty on July 21, 2024.
The full Buck Moon rising behind the Statue of Liberty on July 21, 2024.How To See the Buck Moon
This year's buck moon will reach its peak illumination at 4:37 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time on Thursday, July 10, 2025. While that timing means it won't be visible in its fullest phase for many viewers until after sunset, the moon will still appear nearly full and luminous throughout the evening and is best caught shortly after moon rise.
The moon rise time, for the best view in different parts of the country, does vary.
Location Moon rise time on 10 July, 2025 (local time) New York City, NY 8:53 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time Chicago, IL 8:54 p.m. Central Daylight Time Dallas, TX 9:00 p.m. Central Daylight Time Los Angeles, CA 8:32 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time Phoenix, AZ 8:05 p.m. Mountain Standard Time
The moon will appear especially large and golden near the horizon—a phenomenon known as the "moon illusion"—before climbing higher and fading into its typical silvery-white glow.
To get a great view, it is also a good idea to choose an area away from city lights and pollution. Checking local weather forecasts for clear skies is also a good idea.
Currently New York City is looking to be overcast with possible showers, but Chicago and Phoenix have fair visibility predictions, while Los Angeles is expected to have clear skies all evening.
It isn't just the moon that can be seen on July 10, early risers could also get a view of Venus and Saturn in the pre-dawn sky. Venus will be shining brightly in the eastern sky, while Saturn will be visible in the southeast.
When Is the Next Full Moon?
After the Buck Moon on July 10, 2025, the next full moon will be the Sturgeon Moon, visible on August 9, 2025.
Named for the giant sturgeon fish traditionally caught in late summer, it will mark another opportunity for moon watchers to enjoy the seasonal beauty of the night sky.
Do you have a tip on a science story that Newsweek should be covering? Do you have a question about the moon? Let us know via science@newsweek.com.
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