International Observe the Moon Night is a worldwide, public celebration of lunar science and exploration held annually since 2010. The next edition of the annual International Observe the Moon Night celebration is September 19, 2026. Go look at the Moon! And invite your family, friends, and community to join you.

One day each year, everyone on Earth is invited to observe and learn about the Moon together and to celebrate the cultural and personal connections we all have with Earth’s nearest neighbor. Everyone, everywhere, can participate, and anyone, anywhere, can host an International Observe the Moon Night event. Events range in size from small backyard gatherings to festivals with hundreds of participants. Hosts can tailor their events to match their available resources and expertise, as well as the needs and interests of their communities.
 

 
Photo credit: NASA

The International Observe the Moon Night website has a number of resources to support your International Observe the Moon Night event, including: a printable map of the Moon in the exact phase it will be that day, highlighting features people can find with their naked eye and through telescopes, links to beautiful lunar imagery that can be displayed, recommended hands-on activities, customizable advertising materials, and evaluation materials. The International Observe the Moon Night team also offers professional development for hosts with topics such as lunar photography tips and NASA lunar and planetary science research that hosts can share with their visitors. 

Preview for this year's International Observe the Moon Night Moon map - download the full resolution copy here.

Though telescopes and binoculars are not required to view the Moon, they add to the observing experience. Many astronomy clubs around the world host International Observe the Moon Night events, but if you or your local club would rather not lead an event, consider partnering. Libraries, schools, museums, and other organizations eagerly seek support from astronomy clubs to provide telescopes and observing expertise at their International Observe the Moon Night events.

The Moon is a gateway to the Solar System and beyond, so hosts are encouraged to observe and discuss planets, other celestial objects, and events as well. Stargazers often notice how the Moon tracks the same region of the sky as the Sun and planets - making our Moon a celestial tour guide to budding observers, making for striking pairings as it passes, and sometimes occults, the planets in our solar system. The Moon also passes near many other celestial sights and can help folks identify nearby constellations, stars, and relatively bright deep-sky objects.

Be sure to attend our July 28th webinar and register your International Observe the Moon Night event here.

Last Updated: May 28, 2026

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