The Planetary Science Institute (PSI) invites the Tucson community to participate in International Observe the Moon Night on Saturday, September 19, from 6 to 8 p.m. This free event marks PSI's first public celebration of the occasion at its offices, located at 1700 E. Fort Lowell Road. Previous years saw scientists conducting informal viewing events using personal telescopes.
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Founded nearly 55 years ago by planetary scientists William Hartmann and Don Davis, PSI is the largest non-governmental employer of planetary scientists worldwide and has been based in Tucson since 1972. CEO and Director Amanda Hendrix expressed the institute's commitment to making planetary science accessible, emphasizing the value of community engagement through events like this.
Attendees will have the opportunity to meet scientists, view the moon through provided telescopes and binoculars, and engage in various STEM activities. Samantha Riestenberg, the science communications manager, highlighted that binoculars can provide a great view of the moon's features. Kids will receive goodie bags including activities like using Oreo cookies to model the moon phases and a cratering demonstration involving flour and marbles.
In addition to telescope viewing, the event will showcase nearly 100 pieces of science art created by Hartmann, reflecting scientific knowledge from when the paintings were made. Sanlyn Buxner, who oversees education and outreach at PSI, noted the universal connection people have with the moon through different facets of life, aiming to make that connection more personal for attendees.
PSI plans to enhance its community presence by offering regular weekend gallery hours for the Hartmann collection and recruiting volunteer docents aged 18 and older for educational activities. Additionally, four PSI scientists are involved in NASA's Artemis program to identify potential lunar landing sites for future missions.
Those unable to attend in person can join a livestreamed event hosted by CosmoQuest, featuring telescope views, on Twitch and YouTube starting at 9 p.m. EDT.