Overview

• The Buck Moon reaches peak illumination at 4:21 p.m. ET on Thursday and remains fully visible through July 12.
• Early July’s aphelion combines with an 18.6-year Major Lunar Standstill to give the moon a low declination and enhanced apparent size.
• Viewers should find an unobstructed southern horizon around 10 p.m. local time to catch the enlarged glow and orange hues produced by atmospheric scattering.
• The July full moon takes its name from midsummer deer antler growth in North America and coincides in India with Ashadha Purnima, marking Lord Buddha’s first sermon.
• Astrologers note its placement in Capricorn offers a moment for grounding ambition, releasing burdens and setting intentions.