Philadelphia skywatchers are in for a celestial show tonight as the Buck Moon rises over the city, glowing orange as it climbs above the southeastern horizon.
According to Time and Date, the Buck Moon will rise over Philadelphia at approximately 8:35 p.m. ET on Wednesday, July 29, making the first moments after moonrise one of the best times to catch the annual summer spectacle. While the moon officially reached its full phase earlier in the day, it will still appear full and bright throughout the evening.
Named for the time of year when male deer begin growing new antlers, the Buck Moon is one of several traditional names for July’s full moon. It’s also company known as the Thunder Moon and Hay Moon, while the Anishinaabeg people refer to it as the Berry Moon.
How to see the Buck Moon in Philadelphia 🌚
The best time to watch tonight’s full moon is shortly after 8:35 p.m., when it first rises above the eastern and southeastern horizon.
For the best viewing experience:
- Find an open view facing east or southeast
- Watch shorty after moonrise for its signature golden-orange glow.
- Bring binoculars or a backyard telescope for a closer look at lunar craters and surface details.
- Check the local forecast for cloud conditions before heading out.
The moon often appears much larger and more colorful near the horizon because Earth’s atmosphere scatters shorter wavelengths of light, leaving warmer orange and golden tones visible.
What’s next after the Buck Moon? 🌑
Tonight’s full moon is the last regular full moon before an exciting stretch of astronomical events.
On Aug. 12, a total solar eclipse will occur, followed by a partial lunar eclipse during the next full on Aug 28. The Aug. 28 full moon will also mark the next opportunity to see a full moon after tonight’s Buck Moon, giving skywatchers another reason to keep their eyes on the night sky as the eclipse season gets underway.
