RIYADH: The July full moon illuminated skies across Saudi Arabia this week, captivating residents, photographers and astronomy enthusiasts from the Northern Borders to the Asir region in a celestial display that blended natural beauty with centuries-old cultural traditions.
Known in some parts of the world as the “Buck Moon” or “Deer Moon,” the full moon was clearly visible under favorable weather conditions, offering unobstructed views across the Kingdom.
In the Northern Borders Region, Astronomy and Space Club member Adnan Khalifa said the July full moon is traditionally called the “Buck Moon” in North American Indigenous folklore, marking the period when male deer begin growing new antlers. Other cultures refer to it as the “Mango Moon” because it coincides with mango harvests in some regions.
The full moon in the Northern Borders region was clearly visible under favorable weather conditions, offering unobstructed views. (SPA photo)
Khalifa noted that such names are rooted in cultural heritage rather than astronomy, reflecting how communities historically linked lunar cycles with seasonal and environmental changes.
