International Observe the Moon Night is a time to come together with fellow Moon enthusiasts and curious people worldwide. Everyone on Earth is invited to learn about lunar science and exploration, take part in celestial observations, and honor cultural and personal connections to the Moon.
This year, International Observe the Moon Night occurs on Saturday, September 26th, when the Moon is around first quarter ― a great phase for evening observing. Furthermore, the first-quarter Moon offers excellent viewing opportunities along the terminator (the line between night and day), where shadows enhance the Moon’s cratered landscape.
2020 Moon Maps
These Moon maps depict the Moon as it will appear from the northern or southern hemisphere on International Observe the Moon Night, September 26, 2020.
Resource maps for observers in the Northern Hemisphere:
Northern Hemisphere showing lunar maria
Northern Hemisphere showing telesopic objects
Resource maps for observers in the Southern Hemisphere:
Southern Hemisphere showing lunar maria
Southern Hemisphere showing telesopic objects
Between July 1969 and December 1972 a total of 12 astronauts landed on the surface of the Moon as part of the Apollo missions. Apollo missions 11, 12,14,15, 16, and 17 each landed in different locations on the lunar surface. These locations, each fascinating for their own particular reasons, sampled a wide range of lunar geology and terrain, from smooth mare plains to rugged ancient highlands. All six landing sites are visible tonight. Use these maps to find and observe all six historic landing sites.
Northern Hemisphere showing human landing sites
Southern Hemisphere showing human landing sites
You can join International Observe the Moon Night from wherever you are. Attend or host a virtual or in-person event, or observe the Moon from home. For more information visit: https://moon.nasa.gov/observe-the-moon-night/
Posted by: Soderman/SSERVI Staff
Source: NASA