Smoky Mountain Full Buck Moon
Smoky Mountain Full Buck Moon Is On The Rise!
No fireworks this year? No problem. Watch the full Buck Moon rise on the 4th of July instead! Discover why July’s full Moon is called the Buck Moon and learn about the penumbral eclipse that will occur on the same day.
July’s full Moon will rise after sunset in the evening of Saturday, July 4, 2020 before reaching peak illumination at 12:44 A.M. Eastern Time on Sunday, July 5. Look towards the southeast to watch it rise above the horizon. How nice it is one of our bright satellite to join Independence Day fireworks in the night sky!
Watch Closely for a Penumbral Eclipse
This month’s full Moon brings with it a penumbral eclipse, which occurs when the Moon crosses through the faint outer edge of Earth’s shadow (the penumbra), making part of the Moon appear ever-so-slightly darker than usual. Unlike a full lunar or solar eclipse, the visual effect of a penumbral eclipse is usually so minimal that it can be difficult to perceive at all. For this eclipse, only a small portion of the Moon will cross into the penumbra, making it even more difficult to see.
This eclipse will be visible from most of North America, except in the northernmost regions of Canada and Alaska. It will begin at 11:04 P.M. EDT(8:04 P.M. PDT) on July 4 and end at 1:56 A.M. EDT on July 5 (10:56 P.M. PDTon July 4).
Why Is It Called the Full Buck Moon?
Traditionally, the full Moon in July is called the Buck Moon because a buck’s antlers are in full growth mode at this time. This full Moon was also known as the Thunder Moon because thunderstorms are so frequent during this month.
The HeySmokies.com astronomical society recommends viewing the full moon at some of our favorite spots including Clingmans Dome, Mount LeConte and Mount Cammerer.
