The University of Texas at Arlington is teaming up with NASA to celebrate International Observe the Moon Night this Saturday. At the free event, held in the UTA Observatory from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m., visitors will be able to examine the moon, talk to astronomy experts, and take pictures through a 16-inch scientific-grade telescope.
The annual event, launched in 2010, is part of a worldwide public engagement program to spark interest in lunar science. This time of year, the moon will be in its waxing gibbous phase, meaning it's more than 50% illuminated but not yet full. This phase is ideal for observing the moon along the terminator—the line between night and day—where shadows enhance viewing of the craters and mountains on its surface.
Visitors will also have the chance to ask UTA Planetarium staff and local astronomy enthusiasts questions about the moon and the night sky.
