Featured Observer
Watch this space for notes from International Observe the Moon Night event hosts, observers, and supporters around the world.
What is the Astronomy Club at UHCL? How is it organized and who are the members?
We are a student-led club that is dedicated to space! We stargaze and plan events about the final frontier... space! We have a group of 100+ members from all backgrounds and majors and use social media to organize and share with our community. Since we believe there is space for everyone, we do not charge any fees. We organize events on campus in safe, public locations and share our telescopes so that everyone can enjoy.
Why did the Astronomy Club decide to participate in International Observe the Moon Night? Was it easy to take part?
The Astronomy Club participated in International Observe the Moon Night in 2022 and 2023. In 2022, we set up telescopes on a campus lawn and invited members of the public to come view the Moon. In 2023, our Club had the opportunity to access the University’s observation deck on the third floor of the STEM building. We had shirts donated to us and set up a hands-on activity, in addition to telescope viewing. We had some overcast weather, but people were excited to see what we could through the clouds. Luckily, the Moon was bright that night so we could see it through the clouds. Just not in full detail. It was super easy to take part in this event and we plan to do so again this year too!
What are your plans for International Observe the Moon Night 2024?
We are collaborating with a local science center that will be providing an awesome portable planetarium experience. And we have some fun giveaways! I have built connections with our University administrators and with more support, we may be able to expand even more. I’ve got big plans – it’s gonna be huge!
After organizing one or more International Observe the Moon Night events, what lessons have you learned about planning events in your community?
Phew! I learned that planning takes at LEAST a month. And that you need Plans A through Z, in case of weather and who knows what else.
Is lunar observing / International Observe the Moon Night important to you and your Club? Why?
Yes, it is very important! This is a night dedicated to looking up at our closest celestial neighbor. The least we can do is give it that little razzle dazzle.
I would recommend International Observe the Moon Night to other student-led science clubs. I get all teary-eyed when I am there with students that get to SEE the Moon for the first time. You can see it in the sky every night, but can you really SEE it? The craters, lakes, intricate details that make the Moon a beautiful sight to see throughout the year. That is worth it to me, and that is why I do this. It makes me happy to bring space to people that never had a chance to experience it. Who knows? Maybe I even inspire future astronauts!
