International Observe the Moon Night is a worldwide event that occurs when the moon is near the first-quarter phase. It will take place on 16 October this year.
The celestial spectacle is "a time to come together with fellow Moon enthusiasts and curious people worldwide," says NASA. The annual event is scheduled every northern fall, and has occurred in either September or October since 2010. It takes place a few days before the full Hunter's Moon on 20 October this year.
The annual public outreach event encourages appreciation, observation, and understanding of the moon and its relation to planetary science and exploration. Everyone on Earth is invited to come together, celebrate, and learn about this natural satellite together.
The night is sponsored by the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter mission, the Solar System Exploration Division at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, and other NASA and astronomical organizations. The Virtual Telescope Project, an official supporter and key partner of the event, is also hosting a livestream of the best views over the skyline of Rome!
You can take part in this celebration in a variety of ways: attend or host a virtual or in-person event, or observe the moon from home! NASA even invites interested lunar lovers to connect with fellow lunar enthusiasts around the world on its Facebook page and use #ObserveTheMoon on social media.
Moongazers can expect to be joined by stargazers because the Orionid meteor shower is just revving up (peaking on 21 October). Viewers can expect to see up to 20 meteors per hour from the Orionids.