ISS Progress 75 resupply ship, with the full Moon above the Earth’s horizon, is pictured separating from the International Space Station shortly after undocking from the Zvezda service module. PHOTO: NASA
20 July is observed as International Moon Day. It commemorates the day when man first walked on the moon in 1969. International Moon Day marks the anniversary of the first landing by humans on the Moon as part of the Apollo 11 lunar mission.
On 12 April, the International Day of Human Space Flight is observed. International Asteroid Day is observed on 30 June, whereas World Space Week is observed between 4 -12 October.
About Moon Village Association
The Moon Village Association (MVA) is a non-governmental organization (NGO) based in Vienna. Its goal is to create a global informal forum for stakeholders like governments, industry, academia, and the public interested in Moon Village development. Whether it’s public or private, the MVA fosters collaboration for global moon exploration programs. It has over 600 participants from over 50 countries and 33 institutional members around the world, representing a wide range of technical, scientific, cultural, and interdisciplinary fields.
MVA partners with non-space organizations to facilitate international discussions formulate plans for the Moon Village and create international, national, and regional networks to engage civil society.
History of International Moon Day
Moon Village Association requested the proclamation of International Moon Day on July 20, the anniversary of the first human landing on the moon with the Apollo 11 mission in 1969, during the UN-COPUOS 64th Session. Proclamation approved by UNGA on 9 December 2021
On September 14, 1959, Luna 2, a Soviet spacecraft, impacted the Moon’s surface. More spacecraft have been launched in the last 62 years from countries like the United States, Russia, Europe, Japan, China, India, and Israel to better understand the Moon. It was the Apollo 11 mission of the United States that landed the first humans on the Moon on 20 July 1969.
The Apollo 11 mission was a pivotal moment in space exploration, setting the stage for future missions and opening up new possibilities for scientific discovery and international collaboration. The mission’s success was a testament to human ingenuity and the spirit of exploration that continues to drive our endeavors in space.
The theme for International Moon Day 2024
The theme of International Moon Day 2024 is “Illuminating the Shadows”. This theme encapsulates the spirit of exploration and the relentless pursuit of knowledge that has driven humanity to look beyond our earthly confines and reach for the Moon.
The theme for International Moon Day 2024 is not just a call to explore the uncharted territories of the Moon, but also a metaphor for shedding light on the unknowns in our universe and within ourselves. It is a reminder that, just as the Moon’s surface is marked by regions of darkness and light, our understanding of the cosmos is still filled with mysteries waiting to be solved.
“Illuminating the Shadows” is a tribute to the progress we’ve made since the first human landing on the Moon in 1969 and an acknowledgment of the challenges that lie ahead. As more missions are planned for the Lunar South Pole, the theme becomes even more relevant. The South Pole of the Moon, with its permanently shadowed regions, holds the promise of untapped resources and scientific discoveries that could pave the way for sustainable lunar exploration and even permanent human presence.
This theme also reflects the global nature of lunar exploration. No longer confined to the efforts of a single nation, the exploration of the Moon has become an international endeavor, with countries around the world contributing to a collective effort to understand our closest celestial neighbor. The Moon Village Association, which proposed the idea of International Moon Day, envisions a future where the Moon is a space shared by all humanity, a common ground for peace, research, and exploration.
The theme of International Moon Day 2023 is “Lunar Exploration Coordination & Sustainability.” The primary objective is to raise awareness among the general public regarding the importance of conducting lunar exploration sustainably.
Significance of International Moon Day
International Moon Day is celebrated across the globe every year, in cooperation with the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA). The goal is to educate the public and raise awareness each year, at the international level, about the status and prospects for humanity, sustainable Moon exploration and utilization, and the need to regulate activities on and around the Moon.
Quick facts about the moon and its climate
Here are quick facts about the moon and its climate:
- The Moon is Earth’s only natural satellite and the fifth-largest moon in the solar system.
- The Moon’s presence helps stabilize our planet’s wobble and moderate our climate.
- The Moon’s distance from Earth is about 240,000 miles (385,000km).
- The Moon has a very thin atmosphere called an exosphere.
- The Moon’s surface is cratered and pitted from comet and asteroid impacts.
- In full sunshine, temperatures on the Moon reach 127°C, way above boiling point. There are 13 and a half days of high temperatures followed by 13 and a half days of darkness, and once the sun goes down the temperature at the bottom of craters can plummet to -173°C.
- The Moon is moving approximately 3.8 cm away from our planet every year.
How to Observe International Moon Day
To observe this day, you can participate in a variety of activities. One way is to simply step outside and admire the moon’s beauty. For a more engaging experience, you can attend or host a local event, which may include moon observation parties, educational workshops, or photography sessions. Many of these events are organized by NASA and other space agencies, offering a chance to learn about lunar science and exploration. Additionally, you can observe the moon through a telescope, capturing its craters and seas in detail. Virtual events are also available, allowing participation from the comfort of your home. To find events near you or to register your own, you can visit NASA’s International Observe the Moon Night website. This day is not only about scientific observation but also about cultural and personal connections to our celestial neighbor. So, whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a curious onlooker, International Moon Day offers a unique opportunity to celebrate and learn more about the moon.
Observation Dates International Moon Day
International Moon Day, celebrated on July 20th, marks a pivotal moment in human history—the first time humans set foot on the Moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969.
| Year | Date | Day |
| 2019 | 20-Jul-19 | Saturday |
| 2020 | 20-Jul-20 | Monday |
| 2021 | 20-Jul-21 | Tuesday |
| 2022 | 20-Jul-22 | Wednesday |
| 2023 | 20-Jul-23 | Thursday |
| 2024 | 20-Jul-24 | Saturday |
| 2025 | 20-Jul-25 | Sunday |
| 2026 | 20-Jul-26 | Monday |
| 2027 | 20-Jul-27 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | 20-Jul-28 | Thursday |
| 2029 | 20-Jul-29 | Friday |
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