Observing Session – The MOON

Friday, 24th July at 8:30 p.m., Ta’ Qali

The Moon is usually the first object to which a newly acquired telescope is turned. Its surface exhibits a wealth of fascinating detail and no description can convey the excitement of observing it for the first time. In addition to the well-known craters and extensive maria there are mountain ranges, valleys, rilles and ray systems.

During this evening, the Moon will be almost at first quarter phase and ideally placed for observation. The terminator (the line separating day and night on the lunar disk) will cross several prominent features such as the large craters Archimedes, Ptolemaeus, Alphonsus and Arzachel, the Apennine Mountains, Sinus Medii, and the Moon’s southern highlands.

During this observing session, members will have the opportunity to view the Moon close up through the telescopes that will be set up. The observing site is located just beyond the north end of the large parking area near the main entrance of the National Park.