Now that summer is in full swing, families are spending more time outside in the sun and evenings under the stars.
It can be very relaxing to relax while looking up at the endless sky.
But for those who love astronomy, July means a really cool full moon: the Buck Moon.
Here’s all the details you need so you don’t miss the sky show.
What is it “Deer Full Moon”?
According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the July Buck Moon is named after the antlers that grow deer at this time of year.
“Buckets shed and regrow their antlers every year,” the website explains.
Because the peaks emerging in July are such a visible event of nature, it’s fitting to name the full moon after it – like the May flower moon.
July’s full moon has many other names. These include the Salmon Moon, Berry Moon and Thunder Moon, named after stormy summer weather, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac.
This month, the Buck Moon is also a supermoon, meaning it will orbit at its closest point to Earth.
But it’s not just a supermoon.
This year’s Buck Moon will orbit closer to our planet than any other moon this year. It will be the biggest and brightest moon of 2024.
The difference is not noticeable to the naked eye
The Old Farmer’s Almanac points out that while the moon will be the biggest we see this year – 7% more visible than any other full moon – it’s not a difference we can see with our eyes.
Still, it’s a fun event.
When and how can we watch the Full Moon?
You can watch it rise into the sky at sunset by looking to the southeast.
Source: almanac.com