The July full moon, commonly known as the “buck moon” or the “thunder moon,” will be glowing in the night sky this Thursday NJ Advance Media | Canva

The Thunder Moon or Buck Moon, as it’s called, the first full moon of the astronomical summer, will occur Thursday.

On July 10, the moon will rise in the southeastern sky and will be illuminated throughout the evening until it sets in the southwest.

The full moon is not out of the ordinary but is recognized as a notable point in the natural cycle of the year. July’s full moon is called the Thunder Moon because of its timing with frequent summer thunderstorms.

It’s also known as the Buck Moon, because of its alignment with the growth spurts of male deer whose antlers are in full velvet by July, according to the Farmer’s Almanac. In Alaska, Native American communities dubbed the event Salmon Moon because it coincides with the timing of salmon run.

There will be more opportunities for stargazing in July. Two meteor showers and a view of the Milky Way will be visible this month.