July full moon coming; get ready for the buck moon

J. Staas Haught, USA TODAY NETWORK

July’s full moon is coming up.

Here’s everything you need to know about seeing the buck moon.

What is the buck moon?

The buck moon is the name given to the full moon in July and originates from Native American traditions surrounding hunting for game.

This is the time of year that male deer — bucks — start to grow their new antlers.

When is the buck moon?

The buck moon usually occurs in mid to late July. In 2024, it will reach its peak fullness on the night of July 21.

If you can't get out to see it on that night, don’t worry. The buck moon will be nearly full for a few days before and after the peak. You can still enjoy a great view from July 19 through July 23.

During those nights, the moon will still appear almost entirely lit.

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Best time to see the buck moon

The best time to view the buck moon is just after sunset when the moon begins to rise in the eastern sky.

This is when the moon appears largest and often takes on a warm, golden hue. However, it will be visible throughout the night, reaching its highest point in the sky around midnight.

How do I see the buck moon?

There are some tricks and tips to getting a great view of the buck moon.

  • Head to an open area with an unobstructed view of the eastern horizon — parks, fields, or beaches are excellent choices.

  • Clear skies are essential for the best viewing experience, so check your local weather forecast before making plans.

  • Try to get away from city lights. Rural areas or parks offer the best views of celestial events.

  • Binoculars or a small telescope can enhance your view of the buck moon.

Six cool places to to see the buck moon

As the highest elevation in New Jersey, High Point State Park offers an expansive view of the night sky without light pollution from the city.

New Jersey’s Island Beach State Park has an unobstructed view over the Atlantic Ocean, making it an ideal spot to watch the moon rise.

Cherry Springs State Park in Pennsylvania is known for its incredibly dark skies, and is a haven for stargazers and an ideal spot to view the buck moon.

With its expansive fields and historical significance, Pennsylvania’s Valley Forge National Historical Park offers a serene setting for moon-watching.

Delaware’s Cape Henlopen State Park offers great views over the ocean, making it a great spot to watch the buck moon rise.

Also in Delaware, Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, along the Delaware Bay, provides a tranquil environment and clear views of the night sky.

What are full moons called?

Here’s what each month’s moon is called:

  • January: wolf moon

  • February: snow moon

  • March: worm moon

  • April: pink moon

  • May: flower moon

  • June: strawberry moon

  • July: buck moon

  • August: sturgeon moon

  • September: harvest moon

  • October: hunter’s moon

  • November: beaver moon

  • December: cold moon

This article originally appeared on Cherry Hill Courier-Post: July moon is the buck moon; when and how to see it

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