Mark October 21st on your calendar because it’s International “Observe the Moon” Night and the PAA is hosting a public event at the Harold Town C.A. and you are invited! Whether you have astronomy gear or not, why not come out and be part of this annual worldwide event to celebrate our only “natural” satellite. International Observe the Moon Night is a worldwide public event that encourages observation, appreciation and understanding of our Moon and its connection to space science, exploration, and human culture. This annual event connects scientists, educators, lunar enthusiasts and interested public from around the world.
On this night a 7 day-old Moon will be at the end of its waxing crescent phase (First Quarter), so the lunar disk will be nicely half lit, not only illuminating many craters across the moonscape, but also providing a “terminator” that will dramatically highlight the boundary between the light and “dark sides” of the Moon ;-) Plan to show up about 6:30 p.m. EDST to set up and prepare for the public, as sunset is about 6:20 p.m. but the Moon should remain visible until close to 11:30 p.m.
The included image is indicative of what you will see during the evening of October 21th. Who can resist the welcoming light of a First Quarter Moon and all it has to offer? Come and explore our closest celestial neighbour, with a bunch of like-minded “lunatics”…around the world!