Full buck moon to illuminate New York sky. Here's when to see it


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Here's what to know about this month's full moon.

NEWS Full Buck Moon to Light Up New York Sky: Here’s When to Catch It

By Steve Howe
Rochester Democrat and Chronicle

July’s full moon, commonly referred to as the Buck Moon, will grace the skies in the early hours of Sunday. Here’s what you need to know about this month’s lunar event.

When is the Full Moon in July 2024?
The Buck Moon will reach its peak at 6:19 a.m. on July 21, 2024, as noted by the Farmer’s Almanac. This name reflects the time of year when male deer begin to grow their antlers. Each summer, adult male deer shed their antlers in winter and regrow them during the warmer months.

A full moon occurs when the moon is in direct opposition to the sun, fully illuminating its near side. Apart from the Buck Moon, July’s full moon has several other names, including the Squash Are Ripe Moon by the Algonquin, the Moon of the Young Corn by the Potawatomi, and the Raspberry Moon by the Anishnaabe. The complete lunar cycle, which encompasses all phases from new moon to full moon and back, lasts about 29.5 days.

Facts About Deer Antlers
In the deer family, which includes species like elks and moose, antlers are unique in that they are bone structures that are shed annually. This is different from horns, which are found in bovine animals such as cows, goats, and sheep. Remarkably, antlers exhibit the fastest bone growth in the animal kingdom, with adult white-tailed deer antlers growing up to ¼ inch each day. Although antlers play a role during the fall breeding season, deer shed them in winter, resulting in a weight difference, as antlers can weigh between 3 to 9 pounds, depending on the health of the deer.

More Information:
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When is the Next Full Moon in 2024?
The following full moon will occur on Monday, August 19, 2024. This one is known as the Sturgeon Moon, marking a season abundant with freshwater fishing opportunities, including the catch of lake sturgeon.

Tips for Photographing the Moon
Whether you’re armed with a high-end DSLR or simply your smartphone, capturing a stunning shot of the moon is possible. Ensure your camera is steady by using a tripod or a similar stabilizing method for long exposures. A higher-quality lens will enhance the details visible on the lunar surface. For optimal exposure, set your ISO low, open your aperture wide, and use a slow shutter speed.

— Steve Howe covers weather, climate, and lake-related issues for the Democrat and Chronicle. A graduate of RIT, he returned to Rochester after work experiences across New York state and in Utah. Feel free to reach him at showe@gannett.com.


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