Stargazers in the quad-state region will have a chance to catch a celestial show this week as July’s full moon, traditionally known as the Buck Moon, reaches its peak illumination.
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the moon will hit maximum illumination at 10:35 a.m. Wednesday. While the exact peak occurs during daylight hours, the lunar disk will appear full and bright in the night sky leading up to and following Wednesday morning, weather permitting.
The July full moon earned the moniker “Buck Moon” because male deer typically begin growing new, velvet-covered antlers during midsummer. Historically, Native American and European communities designated names for each full moon based on seasonal milestones and ecological events.
Other historical names for July’s lunar phenomenon include the Hay Moon, Thunder Moon, and Raspberry Moon, reflecting agricultural harvests and summer weather patterns typical of the season.
Local residents looking to view the lunar event are encouraged to check local weather forecasts for clear nighttime skies.
