Full Moon July 2025: Tomorrow evening, July 10, it’s that time again: full moon. And not just any moon, the July moon, also known as the “Buck Moon.” When you look outside in the evening, you’ll see it slowly rising in the eastern sky. And you’ll probably think the same as thousands of others: how can the moon be so huge?
No, it’s not a supermoon. No, it’s not coming closer. But it will look gigantic. And that’s due to something that has nothing to do with the moon itself… but everything with your own mind.
Why Does the July 2025 Full Moon Appear so Large?
When the moon just rises, right above the horizon, it appears enormous. Much larger than when it’s high in the sky. This is a well-known phenomenon, and it has nothing to do with the moon’s distance. It’s simply an optical illusion. Your brain compares the moon with buildings, trees, or roofs on the horizon — making it appear much larger than it really is.
Once the moon rises higher in the sky, this effect disappears. Then you see it as it truly is: a large, bright disk — still impressive, but less “wow”.
So if you want to truly experience that large moon? You need to go outside on time. Around sunset on Thursday, July 10 is the moment.
What Makes this July Full Moon so Special?
We’re in the middle of summer. The days are long, the nights short. And that means when the moon is full, it stays low above the horizon. In July, it won’t rise high in the sky like in winter, but rather “hovers” just above the houses or trees.
And that’s exactly why it’s so photogenic: orange, low, large, and perfect for an evening walk, a snapshot with your smartphone, or a moment on the balcony with a glass of wine.
For the Netherlands on Thursday evening July 10, 2025, the full moon rises around 22:00 local time (CEST). The exact time may vary by a few minutes depending on your location in the country:
- In eastern Netherlands (e.g., Enschede): around 21:57
- In central Netherlands (e.g., Utrecht): around 22:01
- In western Netherlands (e.g., The Hague): around 22:04
“The moment” to see that large, orange moon peeking above the horizon is between 21:55 and 22:10, depending on your location. Make sure to be ready fifteen minutes earlier at a spot with a clear view to the east, preferably without buildings or trees in your line of sight.
Want to know the exact time for your location? You can check it for free using apps like:
The Buck Moon?
Yes, the July full moon has a nickname: the Buck Moon. This comes from ancient times when people divided their year according to full moons. During this period, male deer began growing their new antlers. This was a sign that summer was truly underway — and thus people called this moon the “Buck Moon”.
You don’t need to remember the name. But don’t say you’ve never heard of it when someone asks: “Do you know what this moon is called?” 😉
What Can You Expect when Viewing?
- The moon rises in the east, around sunset. In the Netherlands, that’s Thursday evening around ten o’clock. (from 22:27 Dutch time the moon will be clearly visible)
- Look for a place with an unobstructed view, like a dike, field, beach, or open balcony.
- There’s a good chance the moon will appear orange or red, especially if it’s a bit hazy.
- And yes: it will look truly enormous. Especially when you see it rising just above a building or tree.
Fun Idea: Don’t Watch Alone
Take someone outside with you. Your partner, children, neighbors, or just yourself with a telescope/binoculars. Set up a folding chair and watch together as the moon slowly climbs upward. You don’t need expensive equipment to experience this.
But do you want to see more details? Like craters, dark spots, or the difference between the moon’s northern and southern hemisphere? Then a simple telescope or binoculars is enough.
Want to See more than just a Beautiful Sphere?
The moon is already beautiful to the naked eye. But if you want to see details like craters, lunar seas, or the difference between the light and dark side of the moon, then binoculars or a telescope are a revelation. The moon is actually the easiest and most impressive object to start with.
At Telescoop.nl we have various models in stock that are specially suited for moon viewing. Such as:
- ✓ Telescope packages for beginners (including moonlight filters)
- ✓ Smart telescopes that automatically track the moon
- ✓ Binoculars with wide field of view, ideal for children or first observations
Order before 23:59? You’ll have it within 48 hours, just in time for the next moon!
Tip for Phone Photos
Use a bit of zoom, tap on the moon disk to get your exposure right, and include a building or tree in the frame to enhance the contrast. This makes the moon appear even larger. And if you want to do it really well? Wait until the moon just peeks above the horizon. That’s the moment.
Finally
The July full moon, the Buck Moon, isn’t a rare natural phenomenon. But it is one of summer’s most beautiful moments to pause, look up, and feel something of what has fascinated us for thousands of years: that single, silent, luminous sphere in the night sky. Want to know why the moon isn’t a planet? Read the blog here!
So: don’t plan anything for Thursday evening. Set a reminder on your phone. And look up.
