Buck Moon: July's Full Moon Explained

The Buck Moon is the full moon traditionally associated with July. In 2027, it reaches its full phase on July 18 and coincides with a penumbral lunar eclipse—although this particular eclipse will be far too slight to put on much of a show.

Why “Buck Moon”? The name refers to the new antlers growing on male deer during the summer. By July, the antlers are becoming more prominent but are generally still covered in a soft layer of velvet.

When is the Buck Moon?

The Buck Moon is July’s full moon. In 2027, the Moon will reach its full phase on July 18 at 11:45 a.m. EDT, or 8:45 a.m. PDT. Check the fact sheet above for the exact time in your location.

For much of North America, the exact phase occurs during daylight. The Moon will still look full when it rises that evening, as well as during the preceding night.

Buck Moon dates by year

Why is it called the Buck Moon?

Bucks, or male deer, shed their antlers during the winter and begin growing a new set in the spring. The antlers develop quickly through early and midsummer, which is the usual explanation for the Buck Moon name.

Growing antlers are covered in velvet, a living layer of skin that carries blood and nutrients to the bone underneath. Once the antlers finish growing in late summer, the velvet dries and is rubbed away. The National Park Service offers a useful overview of how antlers grow and differ from horns.

Other names for July’s Moon

Other names for July’s full moon reflect the plants, weather, and seasonal work associated with midsummer:

- [Raspberry Moon](https://www.algonquinsofpikwakanagan.com/pikwakanagan/culture-traditions/): The Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation call July Miskomini Kizis or Mskomini-Kizis, a name connected with ripening raspberries and a teaching about gentleness and kindness. - [Thunder Moon](https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/watch-the-skies/2011/07/15/enjoy-julys-full-moon/): A seasonal name associated with the thunderstorms common in parts of North America during July. - [Hay Moon](https://www.nasa.gov/blogs/watch-the-skies/2011/07/15/enjoy-julys-full-moon/): A name reflecting the time of year when hay is cut, baled, and stored for winter.

Is there a lunar eclipse during the 2027 Buck Moon?

Technically, yes—but don’t expect to see anything dramatic. On July 18, a tiny edge of the Moon passes through the faint outer part of Earth’s shadow, creating a penumbral lunar eclipse.

NASA lists it as the smallest penumbral lunar eclipse of the 21st century. The contact is so slight that it won’t produce a red Moon, a dark “bite,” or any noticeable dimming to the unaided eye.

Why July’s full moon stays low in the sky

A full moon appears opposite the Sun in Earth’s sky. Because the summer Sun takes a high path over the Northern Hemisphere, July’s full moon follows a lower path and remains closer to the southern horizon.

That low angle can make the Buck Moon look especially golden or orange near moonrise, when its light passes through more of Earth’s atmosphere.