Full buck moon may bring color as it rises Wednesday night - WTOP

What the report says

WTOP reports that July’s full buck moon is expected to rise in the southeast around 9 p.m. Wednesday, offering skywatchers in the D.C. region a potentially colorful moonrise. Greg Redfern, writing for WTOP’s Space Place, said viewers should try to watch as the moon first comes up over the horizon and can use Time and Date’s website for a more exact local moonrise time.

According to WTOP, the region’s current heat and humidity may help give the moon a deep yellow, orange or reddish appearance as it rises. Redfern compared the possibility to last month’s full strawberry moon, which also displayed notable color near the horizon. He advised looking for an unobstructed southeastern view or framing the moonrise with a favorite landmark, and encouraged readers to take photos if conditions allow.

WTOP also noted astronomy-related programming at Shenandoah National Park, including a Wednesday night presentation by Redfern at Big Meadows Lodge titled “The Milky Way and You,” followed by stargazing if skies are clear. Park rangers also host astronomy events, with visitors encouraged to check schedules while at the park.

The item is part of WTOP’s Space Place coverage, which highlights skywatching opportunities and upcoming celestial events. In general, full moons near the horizon can appear warmer in color because moonlight passes through more of Earth’s atmosphere before reaching viewers, scattering shorter wavelengths and leaving more red and orange tones visible.