July 2026 Astronomical Highlights Include Planet Visibility, Meteor Shower and Full Buck Moon
July offers opportunities to view Mars, Saturn and Venus, a new moon on July 14, the Southern Delta Aquarids meteor shower starting July 18, and a full Buck Moon on July 29.
Astronomers note that several celestial events will be observable throughout July 2026. Mars and Saturn will be visible in the southeast sky for the entire month, with Saturn appearing brighter despite its greater distance. Venus will be seen in the western evening sky, rising higher each night.
A new moon occurs on July 14, providing a moonless night that enhances visibility of stars and constellations. The Southern Delta Aquarids meteor shower begins on July 18 and runs until August 21, with a possible peak around July 30. The shower originates from the constellation Aquarius near Delta Aquarii and is linked to debris from comet 96P/Macholz. Observers are advised to find dark locations away from city lights and allow about 30 minutes for eye adaptation to spot 15-20 meteors per hour on clear nights.
The month concludes with a full moon on July 29, commonly called the Buck Moon. The name reflects the period when white-tailed deer regrow antlers, and historical references trace its usage to an 18th-century explorer’s account of Indigenous naming. The moon will reach its maximum illumination at 10:35 a.m. EST.