International Observe the Moon Night

Celebrate the Moon with CTSGC

Each year, people around the world come together to celebrate International Observe the Moon Night, a global event dedicated to observing, learning about, and appreciating Earth's closest celestial neighbor. Whether you are an experienced astronomer, a student exploring space science, or simply someone who enjoys looking at the night sky, everyone is invited to participate.

International Observe the Moon Night provides an opportunity to connect with science, culture, exploration, and discovery while joining a worldwide community of lunar enthusiasts. The event highlights NASA's ongoing lunar exploration efforts and encourages participants of all ages to learn more about the Moon through observation, education, and shared experiences.

Upcoming International Observe the Moon Night Dates

  • 2026: September 19, 2026
  • 2027: September 10, 2027
  • 2028: September 23, 2028

Ways to Participate

There are many ways to take part in International Observe the Moon Night, regardless of your age, experience level, or access to equipment.

Observe the Moon

Spend time viewing the Moon through:

  • A telescope
  • Binoculars
  • A camera or smartphone
  • The unaided eye

Even a simple observation session can reveal fascinating details about the lunar surface and deepen your appreciation for our nearest neighbor in space.

Host a Community Event

Consider organizing a Moon Night event for:

  • Astronomy clubs
  • Libraries
  • Schools and classrooms
  • Community organizations
  • Scout groups
  • STEM clubs
  • Photography clubs
  • Family and friends
  • Art or painting groups

NASA provides resources and guidance for individuals and organizations interested in hosting their own celebration.

Learn How to Host an Event:
https://moon.nasa.gov/observe-the-moon-night/how-to-host/the-basics/

Explore Virtual Opportunities

Unable to observe in person? NASA and partner organizations offer online programming and live streams that allow participants to learn about lunar science and exploration from anywhere.

View Past and Upcoming Livestream Information:
https://moon.nasa.gov/observe-the-moon-night/participate/live-streams/

Learn More About the Moon

NASA offers a variety of resources and activities for students, educators, families, and lifelong learners. Whether you're interested in lunar geology, space exploration, Artemis missions, or cultural perspectives on the Moon, there are countless ways to expand your knowledge.

Share Your Experience

Join the global conversation by sharing your observations, artwork, photographs, and experiences through social media.

Use the hashtags:

  • #ObserveTheMoon
  • #CTObserveTheMoon
  • #CTSpaceGrant

Share Your Moon Photos

We encourage Connecticut students, educators, families, and community members to capture photos of the Moon and share them on social media during International Observe the Moon Night.

Whether you're using a telescope, camera, smartphone, or simply enjoying the view from your backyard, we'd love to see how Connecticut celebrates this worldwide event.

Sharing your photos helps inspire others to explore astronomy, learn about space science, and connect with the broader STEM community.

A Great Opportunity for STEM Education

International Observe the Moon Night is an excellent opportunity to promote STEM learning in schools, libraries, museums, after-school programs, and community organizations.

The event can support learning in:

  • Astronomy and space science
  • Earth and planetary science
  • Engineering and technology
  • Cultural studies and history
  • Art and creative expression

Educators and community leaders are encouraged to incorporate Moon-themed activities, demonstrations, and discussions into their programs to inspire curiosity and exploration.

Have a lunar-themed program that needs a mini-grant? Visit https://ctspacegrant.org/funding-programs/informal-ed to learn about our Informal Ed funding and apply for your mini grant.

 

Is Your Library a Lunar Library?

CTSGC encourages public libraries across Connecticut to participate in International Observe the Moon Night by hosting displays, workshops, observations, book collections, speaker events, and other Moon-themed activities leading up to the celebration.

Libraries play an important role in connecting local communities with science, discovery, and lifelong learning. Through lunar-themed programming, libraries can help inspire participants of all ages to explore astronomy and NASA's ongoing lunar exploration efforts.

Organizations interested in developing Moon-themed programming are encouraged to contact CTSGC for information about available resources and future mini-grant opportunities.

Visit https://ctspacegrant.org/funding-programs/informal-ed to learn about our Informal Ed funding and apply for your mini grant.

Join the Celebration

Whether you attend a community event, organize your own observation session, participate online, or simply step outside to look up at the Moon, International Observe the Moon Night offers a unique opportunity to connect with science, exploration, and a global community of observers.

We look forward to seeing how Connecticut celebrates and shares the wonder of the Moon each year.