International Observe The Moon Night Is Happening This Weekend. Here's How You Can Participate

Looking for something exciting to do this Saturday evening? You can look up at the sky for International Observe The Moon Night.

The celebration takes place in September or October each year, NASA noted, and this year's event falls on Oct. 16. On this day, moon enthusiasts can come together to watch and marvel at our planet's only satellite from wherever they are in the world.

According to the agency, this event is always observed when the moon is at the first quarter phase because it makes for excellent viewing of the moon, particularly along with the light between night and day, which is known as the terminator. This is because the shadows can "enhance the moon's cratered landscape."

"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," the agency noted, encouraging people to interpret the word "observe" broadly.

For instance, the simplest way people can observe the moon during the event is by coming out of their houses and looking up at the moon Saturday evening. As the brightest object in the evening sky, it is very easy to spot even with the naked eye.

Other enthusiasts with the right tools may also view the moon through a telescope or using a pair of binoculars so they could see the celestial body in greater detail. Some may even come together with other moon enthusiasts and attend virtual or in-person events, or perhaps engage in moon-related activities such as creating moon-inspired art or taking lovely photos of the moon. NASA has even provided tips on how people can take photos of the moon using various tools.

"However you choose to observe, please follow local guidelines on health and safety," the agency noted.

Another exciting way people can participate is by joining NASA's Moon Photo Challenge Bingo, in which people will complete the moon-related challenges on a bingo sheet. Tasks include taking a selfie with the moon and creating a homemade space helmet. They can then share a photo of themselves with their completed moon bingo cards on social media using #ObserveTheMoon.

This simple yet important event is something individuals from all walks of life enjoy. And however one decides to observe the event, the goal is to "unite" people all over the world to celebrate lunar science, observation and exploration.