The public is invited to learn about the Earth’s lunar neighbor during International Observe the Moon Night at the NASA Wallops Flight Facility Visitor Center from 7 to 9:30 p.m., Saturday, October 5.

International Observe the Moon Night is an annual worldwide public event that encourages observation, appreciation and understanding of our Moon and its connection to NASA planetary science and exploration. The annual event connects scientists, educators and lunar enthusiasts from around the world.

This year, the connection with the Moon is even more significant as we celebrate the 50th Anniversary Apollo 11 and humans first setting foot on the lunar surface. In addition, NASA and its international partners are working to return to the Moon by 2024 through the Artemis program, delivering the first woman and the next man to the lunar surface and the first phase in establishing a permanent human presence on the Moon.

International Observe the Moon Night begins with a moon-themed presentation at the NASA Visitor Center’s auditorium at 7 p.m. After the sun sets, head outside and catch a glimpse of the Moon. The Delmarva Space Sciences Foundation will be on location with telescopes, providing a guided tour of the Moon, planets and other night sky objects for visitors until 9:30 p.m. Moon-themed movies and hands-on activities will be available throughout the event.

The event is free and open to the public. The Moon presentation and indoor activities will take place regardless of weather conditions; however, the telescope viewing is subject to cancellation due to inclement weather. Optional items to bring include binoculars, a red light and insect repellant.

NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) mission and partners sponsor International Observe the Moon Night. NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, manages LRO for the Science Mission Directorate at NASA Headquarters in Washington, D.C.

The NASA Visitor Center, located on Va. Rt. 175 about six miles from U. S. Route 13 and five miles from Chincoteague, is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free.