July 2025 Buck Moon: A Celestial Event to Witness This Summer

On July 10, 2025, a remarkable astronomical event will occur as the July full moon, commonly referred to as the Buck Moon, ascends in the sky. This full moon will not only be significant for its beauty but also for its unique positioning; it will be both the farthest and one of the lowest full moons of the year. This phenomenon coincides with Earth's recent aphelion, the point at which it is farthest from the sun, occurring on July 6, 2025, according to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

The full moon is set to rise at 3:37 PM Central Time, but the optimal viewing time will be after sunset when it appears on the southeastern horizon. During this time, the moon will exhibit the "Moon Illusion," a perceptual phenomenon that causes it to appear larger when it is closer to the horizon compared to when it is high in the sky. Dr. Emily Carter, an astrophysicist at the California Institute of Technology, explains, "The Moon Illusion occurs due to the way our brains interpret visual information, making the moon appear significantly larger near the horizon."

This year, the Buck Moon will also appear lower than usual due to a rare event known as the "Major Lunar Standstill." This phenomenon occurs approximately every 18.6 years, as detailed by Dr. Robert H. Williams, a lunar researcher at the Lunar and Planetary Institute. He states, "During a Major Lunar Standstill, the tilt of the moon's orbit reaches its maximum, resulting in a notably lower appearance in the sky, particularly during summer months."

Historically, the full moon in July has garnered various names, with the term "Buck Moon" referencing the time when male deer begin to grow their antlers. Other colloquial names include the "Thunder Moon" for the frequent summer storms in parts of the United States, as noted by the Old Farmer’s Almanac. Additionally, it is referred to as the "Salmon Moon" due to the abundance of salmon during this season, the "Berry Moon" for ripening berries, and the "Feather Moulting Moon" relating to the molting of birds.

With anticipated clear skies, stargazers across the United States are encouraged to witness the Buck Moon rise shortly after sunset on July 10. According to the American Meteorological Society, optimal conditions for moon gazing will enhance the experience, making this a noteworthy event for both amateur astronomers and casual observers alike.

In summary, the July 2025 Buck Moon presents an extraordinary opportunity for observation, combining the effects of Earth's aphelion and the Major Lunar Standstill. As the moon rises low in the sky, it will serve as a reminder of the celestial events that connect us to the natural world. As Dr. Carter aptly puts it, "Such rare occurrences not only captivate our imagination but also deepen our appreciation for the vastness of the universe."

### Additional Information: - **Viewing Tips:** To fully appreciate the Buck Moon, find a location with an unobstructed view of the southeastern horizon, away from city lights. - **Next Major Lunar Standstill:** The next occurrence will not be until 2043, making this event particularly special for lunar enthusiasts.

For more updates on astronomical events, follow NASA and other scientific organizations that monitor celestial phenomena.