International Observe the Moon Night is an annual event, led by NASA and their collaborators around the world, which is dedicated to encourage observation, appreciation and understanding of Earth’s Moon.

For the sixth year in a row, Western University’s Centre for Planetary Science and Exploration (CPSX), in collaboration with the Canadian Lunar Research Network (CLRN), Western’s Department of Physics & Astronomy, the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC) and the Planetary Society – London Chapter, is hosting an event at the Cronyn Memorial Observatory to engage the community of southwestern Ontario to be curious about Earth’s closest celestial neighbour, the Moon.

Date: September 19, 2015
Time: 5 to 10 p.m.
Location: Western’s Cronyn Memorial Observatory

Western’s International Observe the Moon Night will feature moon observation opportunities utilizing Cronyn’s telescopes, including the 10-inch refractor, as well as hands-on activities and displays.

Patrick Hill, a PhD Student in Western’s Department of Earth Sciences and Center for Planetary Science and Exploration, will present a public talk titled The Moon and its Origins while Zachary Morse, also a PhD Student in Western’s Department of Earth Sciences and Center for Planetary Science and Exploration, will deliver a public talk titled, Impact Basins and Mapping the Lunar Surface.

Other highlights include:

– Hands-on Impact Cratering activity for children
– Smartphone photography of the Moon using a telescope
– Display of Lunar, Martian as well as other meteorites

Visitors will also meet planetary scientists and astronomers from Western, as well as the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC).

Free parking is available at the Alumni/Thompson parking lot.

For more information, please contact Parshati Patel at ppatel54@uwo.ca or visit http://physics.uwo.ca/community/cronyn/inomn.html

MEDIA CONTACT: Jeff Renaud, Senior Media Relations Officer, 519-661-2111, ext. 85165, jrenaud9@uwo.ca, @jeffrenaud99

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