The Full Buck Moon: July's Moon Guide

Here are highlights of the July 2012 Moon! The Almanac's monthly Moon guide keeps you informed about full Moon names, Moon phase dates, and Best Days by the Moon.

Full Moon Names

July is the month of the Full Buck Moon.

Bucks begin to grow new antlers at this time. This full Moon was also known as the Thunder Moon, because thunderstorms are so frequent during this month.

See all Full Moon names and their meanings.

Moon Phase Dates 2012

All dates and times are ET. See the Moon Phase Calendar for your city/state.

	New Moon: July 19, 12:24 A.M.
	First Quarter: July 26, 4:56 A.M.
	Full Moon: July 3, 2:52 P.M.
	Last Quarter: July 10, 9:48 P.M.

For your next full Moon, see our Full Moon Dates chart.

Full Moon Video

Each month, we will explain the traditional names of the full Moon along with some fascinating Moon facts. This month, learn about the Full Buck Moon, why July is such an important month in Moon history, and how scientists measure the distance from Earth to the Moon.  Click below to watch video.

Best Days in July 2012

Below are the best days for activities, based on the Moon's sign and phase in July.

For Cutting Hay:

• 10, 11

For Setting Eggs:

• 5, 6

For Fishing:

• 1–3, 19–31

See Best Days for more activities.

Moon Facts & Folklore 2012

• In one of 2012's best conjunctions, the crescent Moon floats between bright Jupiter and dazzling Venus on the 15th.
  
• On July 20, 1969, Neil Armstrong became the first person to step foot on the Moon. He also placed the U.S. flag there.
• On July 31, 1999, The ashes of astrogeologist Eugene Shoemaker were deposited on the Moon.

Share your thoughts about this month's Moon below!