The buck moon will appear full for several days, giving sky watchers a plenty of time to check out the view.
WASHINGTON — A full moon will light up the night sky this week.
July’s “buck moon” is set to peak Thursday at 4:37 p.m. ET. According to NASA, the buck moon will appear full on the evening of July 9 through the night of July 10, giving sky watchers a plenty of time to check out the view.
Here’s what you need to know if you want to catch a glimpses of July’s full moon.
When can I see the buck moon?
While the moon reaches full illumination in the afternoon, the best time to catch it will be shortly after sunset on July 10, when it begins to rise in the southeast sky.
If you’re looking to view the buck moon this week, the National Weather Service is reporting that much of the U.S. is expected to have clear skies on July 9, but increased cloud cover is possible on July 10, especially along parts of the East Coast.
Why is it called the buck moon?
Each full moon has a set of nicknames, popularized by farmer’s almanacs and connected to the seasons when they take place.
According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the buck moon name reflects the time of year when male deer (bucks) are in the thick of antler growth, which can occur at a rate of up to 1.5 inches per week in summer.
When’s the next full moon?
If you miss this one, mark your calendar for the next full moon, which will rise Saturday, Aug. 9, known as the Sturgeon Moon. After that, 2025 will bring:
• Sept. 7: Harvest Moon
• Oct. 6: Hunter’s Moon