These activities make it easy to participate safely in International Observe the Moon Night from wherever you are. They are suitable for a variety of age groups and adaptable for use with whatever materials you have available. Feel free to adjust the activities to better meet the needs of your participants or audience.
For even more ideas, explore highlighted collections from our supporters.
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Set aside some time each day to look at the Moon. Record your observations in the log provided here.
Time: One month
Recommended age: All ages
Group size: Any
Suggested materials: Printed or digital copy of Moon Observation Journal, writing utensil or editing app
Related resources: Moon in Motion, Moon Phase and Libration, STEMonstrations: Moon Phases
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When you look up at the sky, you may notice that the Moon appears to change shape each day. The different shapes of the Moon that we see at different times of the month are called the Moon’s phases. In this activity, you will create a model to demonstrate the phases of the Moon.
Note: These activities are aligned to specific Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).
Time: 60 minutes
Recommended age: 8-14 years
Group size: Individual or small groups
Suggested materials: White Styrofoam ball — 3 in (7.6 cm) or larger; light source (example: a lamp with a bright, clear, incandescent bulb); Moon Phase Model sheet; Moon Observation sheet; string — 8 in (20.3 cm); metal brad paper fastener; writing utensil
Related resources: Moon in Motion, Moon Phase and Libration, Sketch the Moon Together!
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Make Moon-related art (in any medium). Share your lunar artwork in the International Observe the Moon Night Flickr group using the tag ObserveTheMoonArt, and on social media using #ObserveTheMoon. Image credit: Yoonseung Choi
Time: Varies
Recommended age: All ages
Group size: Any
Suggested materials: Any
Related resources: “Moon As Art” Collection, Do-It-Yourself Exploration with Moon Trek
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Channel your inner astronaut! Take a picture of yourself completing each of the Moon photo challenges on the bingo sheet. Share your photos and completed bingo sheet on social media using #ObserveTheMoon.
Time: Varies
Recommended age: All ages
Group size: Any
Suggested materials: Printed or digital copy of Moon Photo Bingo Challenge sheet, writing utensil or editing app
Related resources: Moon Viewing Guide, Lunar Photography Guide, NASA Prepares to Explore the Moon: Spacesuits and Tools, Impact Craters
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Through a series of graphic novels and digital platforms, First Woman aims to capture our attention and unite the next generation of explorers who will return to the Moon.
Time: Varies
Recommended age: 5+ years
Group size: Individual
Suggested materials: Computer, tablet, smart phone, or other electronic device with internet connectivity
Related resources: Artemis Camp Experience, The Adventures of Commander Moonikin Campos and Friends, We Go as the Artemis Generation
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Viewing the Moon with binoculars or imaging equipment? Try this two-part Observing Challenge from the Astronomical League. Note: You do not need to be a member of the Astronomical League to participate.
Time: Varies
Recommended age: 16+ years old
Group size: Individual
Materials: Varies
Related resources: Moon Map, Sketch the Moon Together!
School groups and other educators may wish to incorporate or build on these activities in International-Observe-the-Moon-Night-inspired programming. This is an opportunity to get the whole school involved.
Everyone: We welcome your creative interpretation, adaptation, and implementation!
Looking for more? Try these activity and resource collections:
NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Mission Education Resources
NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera Educational Activities & Lessons
Explore! with the Lunar and Planetary Institute
Night Sky Network Outreach Resources
Design Squad On the Moon Activity Guide
