July’s full moon, known as the Buck Moon, has captured the imagination of skywatchers across the UK. This year’s event, peaking on 10 July 2025, stands out for its unique astronomical features and the folklore that surrounds it. As Britons look up to the night sky, the Buck Moon offers not just a beautiful spectacle, but also a moment to connect with nature and tradition.
What Is the Buck Moon?
The Buck Moon is the traditional name given to July’s full moon. The term comes from Native American and colonial folklore, which observed that male deer, or bucks, begin to grow new antlers at this time of year. In the UK, the name has become popular through its use in astronomy guides and media, joining other evocative moon names like the Wolf Moon and Strawberry Moon.
This year, the Buck Moon is also referred to as the Thunder Moon in some cultures, a nod to the frequent summer storms that occur in July. In China, it is sometimes called the Hungry Ghost Moon, reflecting the rich diversity of lunar traditions around the world.
When and How to See the Buck Moon in the UK
The Buck Moon reached its peak illumination at 9:37 pm BST on Thursday, 10 July 2025. For most UK observers, the best time to see it was shortly after sunset, as the moon rose in the southeast. The moon will remain bright for a day before and after its peak, so there is still a chance to catch its glow if clouds allow.
Experts recommend finding a spot with minimal light pollution and an unobstructed view of the eastern horizon. Parks, open fields, or even a clear garden can provide an ideal vantage point. Observing the moon as it rises is especially rewarding, as atmospheric conditions can give it a golden or orange hue, making it appear larger than usual due to the so-called ‘Moon illusion’.
Why This Year’s Buck Moon Is Special
The 2025 Buck Moon is notable for several reasons. It is the seventh full moon of the year and is the most distant full moon of 2025, making it appear slightly smaller in the sky—a phenomenon known as a “micromoon”. This year, the Buck Moon also coincides with a period of major lunar standstill. The moon’s path is unusually low in the sky, which amplifies the Moon illusion and makes the moon seem dramatically larger when it is near the horizon.
In astronomical terms, the moon is located in the constellation Sagittarius, right in the middle of the Teapot asterism. This low trajectory means that, in some parts of the UK, the moon may be closer to the horizon than usual, making it a striking sight but potentially more challenging to spot if buildings or trees obstruct the view.
The Folklore and Science Behind the Buck Moon
The tradition of naming full moons dates back centuries. These names often reflect natural events or agricultural cycles. The Buck Moon’s name highlights the time when deer begin to regrow their antlers, a symbol of renewal and strength in many cultures. Other names for July’s full moon include the Thunder Moon, due to the prevalence of summer storms, and the Hay Moon, marking the hay harvest season in rural communities.
While the moon’s appearance does not change with its name, the folklore adds a layer of meaning and connection to the rhythms of nature. In the UK, these traditions have been embraced by stargazers and nature lovers alike, enriching the experience of watching the full moon each month.
Expert Insights and Viewing Tips
Astronomers from the Royal Observatory Greenwich confirm that the Buck Moon is a highlight of the summer sky. They note that the full moon’s brightness can make it harder to see fainter stars and deep-sky objects, but it remains one of the most striking naked-eye phenomena.
For the best viewing experience, experts suggest:
- Choosing a location away from city lights.
- Watching the moonrise for the most dramatic effect.
- Using binoculars or a small telescope to observe lunar features like craters and maria.
The Met Office forecast for the UK suggested that Friday evening would offer the clearest skies for viewing, giving skywatchers another opportunity if clouds obscured the moon on Thursday.
The Buck Moon and Its Place in the Lunar Calendar
A full moon occurs roughly every 29.5 days, marking the completion of one lunar phase cycle. The Buck Moon is the seventh full moon of 2025, following June’s Strawberry Moon and preceding August’s Sturgeon Moon. Each full moon has its own character and significance, shaped by both science and tradition.
This year’s Buck Moon is also the farthest from the Sun, as Earth recently reached aphelion—its most distant point from the Sun—on 3 July. This alignment adds to the moon’s unique position in the sky and its slightly diminished apparent size.
The Buck Moon in British Culture
In recent years, interest in full moons has surged in the UK, with social media and news outlets highlighting each event. The Buck Moon has become a trending topic, with Britons sharing photos and experiences online. Local astronomy clubs and observatories often host events and provide guidance for those eager to learn more about the night sky.
The moon’s presence in literature, art, and folklore continues to inspire. From Shakespeare’s references to the “pale queen of night” to modern poetry and music, the full moon remains a symbol of wonder and reflection in British culture.
