ORLANDO, Fla. \u2014 Central Florida skywatchers can get an up-close look at the Moon \u2014 and other night-sky sights \u2014 Friday night at the University of Central Florida.<\/p>\n
UCF will host International Observe the Moon Night from 8 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16, at the UCF Reflecting Pond. The free event is open to the public and welcomes visitors of all ages.<\/p>\n
Organized by SpaceU and UCF\u2019s Robinson Observatory, the worldwide celebration highlights lunar science, space exploration and the night sky.<\/p>\n
What to expect<\/p>\n
Visitors can look through high-powered portable telescopes operated by Robinson Observatory, with views of the Moon and other celestial objects, weather permitting.<\/p>\n
The event will also feature hands-on \u201cmoony\u201d activities, science demonstrations and educational displays from UCF\u2019s Physics Department, Astronomy Society and other space-focused student organizations. UCF Libraries and the English Department will host themed learning and creative-media activities.<\/p>\n
What to know before you go<\/p>\n
When: 8\u20139:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16.<\/p>\n
Where: UCF Reflecting Pond, on UCF\u2019s Orlando campus.<\/p>\n
Cost: Free and open to all ages.<\/p>\n
Parking: Visitors from outside UCF may need to purchase a standard daily campus parking permit.<\/p>\n
Weather: Activities are weather-permitting. If rain or heavy clouds force a postponement, updates will be posted on the Robinson Observatory\u2019s public events schedule.<\/p>\n
International Observe the Moon Night is an annual global celebration of lunar observation, science, exploration, arts and culture<\/p>\n
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