Join other Moon enthusiasts to celebrate and learn more about the natural satellite of the Earth during International Observe the Moon Night on Saturday, Oct. 21, at Jack C. Davis Observatory on Western Nevada College’s Carson City campus.

The timing is perfect for viewing the Moon at its first quarter, providing shadows that enhance the Moon’s cratered landscape, according to NASA.

JCDO is planning assisted telescope viewing during its free weekly Star Party from 6 to 11 p.m. Viewing will be complemented by a presentation from JCDO Director Dr. Thomas Herring: “It’s Lunacy – the Moon” at 7:30 p.m.

“I'll be highlighting some information about plans for near-term exploration of the Moon, including details on the Artemis program in my talk,” Dr. Herring said.

Dr. Herring said that a variety of Moon materials from NASA will be available for free: Summer Moon maps, Moon observation journals and a Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter coloring page.

International Observe the Moon Night is sponsored by NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter mission and the Solar System Exploration Division at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center.

JCDO is located at 2269 Vanpatten Ave., just above the college’s campus.