About the Event

General questions

• When is International Observe the Moon Night?

  International Observe the Moon Night occurs annually in September or October, when the Moon is around first quarter. The first quarter Moon is great for late-afternoon and evening observing. 

  Upcoming dates for International Observe the Moon Night:

  • September 26, 2020
  • October 16, 2021
  • October 1, 2022
• If we are unable to participate or host our event on International Observe the Moon Night, can we still officially observe on another day?

  Though we encourage everyone to observe on a specific date each year, we understand that this date may not work for everyone. You are welcome to participate on a different day. Participation can mean looking at the Moon, learning about lunar science and exploration, honoring personal and cultural connections to our nearest celestial neighbor, and more.  We encourage you to observe as close to the official date as possible, because we select dates that are close to a first-quarter Moon, which is visible in the afternoon and evening ― a convenient time for most hosts and participants.

• Are there materials to promote my event?

  Yes! The fillable event flyer and press release can both be downloaded and customized with specific information about your event. 

• What materials are available to promote International Observe the Moon Night as a whole?

  There are many ways you can tell people about International Observe the Moon Night. The save-the-date postcard is great as a handout. Or download and hang up this flyer! If you're on social media, check out our social media shareables. And we are always adding new items to our Event Materials. 

• Do you have hands-on activities that we can use at our event?

  Yes! Here are some of our recommended activities. 

• Will there be a live feed of the Moon?

  The Virtual Telescope Project will be livestreaming the Moon on September 26th from Rome, Italy. 

• How can we get a scientist speaker or local support for our event?

  Here are some great places to start your search for in-person, socially distanced, and/or virtual help:

  • The Solar System Ambassadors is a program that works with motivated volunteers around the country to share the latest science and discoveries of NASA’s space exploration missions by inspiring their community at local events. (Check a database of local Solar System Ambassadors in your area.)
  • The NASA Museum Alliance is a group of informal educators that is designed to help you navigate, find, or even create what you need to teach audiences about STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) topics. (Check a map of local NASA Museum Alliance members.)
  • The Night Sky Network connects local astronomy clubs with those interested in hosting events to bring the wonders of the universe to the public.

  For additional help, we suggest reaching out to your local university astronomy departments or clubs to see if they will be operating in the fall; they may be able to assist you. Typically, university clubs are enthusiastic about public engagement and can speak to the current and cutting-edge science happening in their fields.

• Can we get an astronaut to come to our event?

  Follow these links to request a NASA astronaut or speaker.

• Do you have a map of the Moon?

  Each year, we make maps of the Moon with sites that will be visible on International Observe the Moon Night. You can view our 2019 Moon map here. Additional materials about the Moon can be found on our Event Materials page.

• Will International Observe the Moon Night happen in 2020?

  Yes! International Observe the Moon Night is a virtual-friendly event and we encourage individual and household observers. In-person programs that adhere to local laws and guidelines are also welcome. Any observer can plan and host a program online or in person, join an existing program, or register as an individual participant. All are invited to connect with us and each other using our Facebook page, the International Observe the Moon Night Flickr group, and #ObserveTheMoon across social media platforms.