The International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR) is calling on space enthusiasts young and old to join an unforgettable evening under the stars at NASA’s International Observe the Moon Night this Saturday.
With events held around the world, NASA describes the night as a time to come together with fellow moon enthusiasts and curious people across the globe, to learn about lunar science and exploration, take part in celestial observations, and honour cultural and personal connections to the moon.
Manager Strategic Engagement and Communications Charlene D'Monte at ICRAR, a joint venture between The University of Western Australia and Curtin University, said four telescopes would be set up in Perth’s Yagan Square this Saturday from 6pm to 9pm.
Image: Last year's event was a huge hit with young and old alike.
“We’re setting up our 10-inch Dobsonians, a type of telescope known for its simplicity and ease of use, for an evening of astronomical excitement observing our nearest celestial neighbour, the Moon,” Ms D’Monte said.
"We’ll be checking out all the amazing features we can see on the Moon’s surface, from mountains to craters to astronaut landing sites."
Charlene D'Monte, ICRAR Manager Strategic Engagement and Communications
“We’ll be checking out all the amazing features we can see on the Moon’s surface, from mountains to craters to astronaut landing sites. You will also be able to see these on the digital tower at Yagan Square.”
Ms D’Monte said ICRAR astronomers would be on hand to answer questions and talk about what people were looking at through the telescopes, making it an interactive experience.
“The Moon will be around its first quarter, offering fantastic evening viewing, especially along the terminator – the line between night and day – where shadows accentuate the Moon’s cratered landscape,” Ms D’Monte said.
“We’ll start observing as soon as the Moon is visible, so keep an eye out for our telescopes and our glowing red ICRAR banners.”
For all the details, see here.
Media references
Liz McGrath, UWA Media Advisor, 08 6488 7975
Charlene D'Monte, ICRAR Manager Strategic Engagement, 0468 579 311