HOUSTON—October 13, 2017 -- Levy Park Conservancy (LPC) and the Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) present an International Observe the Moon Night (InOMN) public event from 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 28 at Levy Park, where visitors of all ages can learn about lunar science and exploration. Houstonians are invited to join the world-wide celebration at Levy Park which includes hands-on educational activities for children, short presentations for the entire family led by LPI scientists, and night sky viewing – weather permitting.

“We are excited to once again partner with LPI, the terrific organization that spearheaded our solar eclipse watching party at Levy Park in August,” says Lindsey Carey, Programming Coordinator for Levy Park Conservancy. “The scientists at LPI understand how to make astronomy relatable and fun to many different audiences. Join us for a fun evening looking at the Moon and the stars.”

“InOMN is a great opportunity to connect lunar enthusiasts around the world,” says Andrew Shaner, Public Engagement Lead at the LPI. “The solar eclipse events held in the summer excited the nation and were a precursor to future cosmic events such as InOMN and the upcoming lunar eclipse in January 2018.”

The event will also feature information booths by the Houston Astronomical Society, NASA Astromaterials Research and Exploration Science and more. The WindSync quintet will perform Moon-inspired music for all to enjoy.

Activity schedule is as follows:

4 p.m. – 6 p.m.

· Hands-on activities for kids

· Information booths (Houston Astronomical Society, NASA Astromaterials Research & Exploration Sciences

· WindSync quintet will perform Moon-inspired music

6 p.m. – 7 p.m. - Transition to evening activities (Guests can enjoy park amenities)

· Set-up telescopes for night sky viewing Pavilion

· Set-up A/V for presentations/videos

· WindSync quintet will perform Moon-inspired music

7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

· Night sky viewing (Moon specifically) near the Pavilion

· Presentations near trees opposite pavilion; presentations will include an overview of the Moon, recent lunar research, and Q&A with a lunar scientist

· WindSync quintet will perform Moon-inspired music

The public is invited to submit Moon questions via Twitter to @LPItoday; questions will be answered during Q&A and/or via TwitterSince 2010, a global network of lunar enthusiasts has come together for one day to celebrate InOMN. This annual, worldwide public event promotes solar system science and exploration, specifically, NASA’s modern exploration of the Moon. More information on InOMN can be found at http://observethemoonnight.org. Event information can also be found at levyparkhouston.org.

Levy Park Conservancy is located in Houston’s Upper Kirby District at 3801 Eastside Street, Houston, TX 77098. Parking is available on Wakeforest and Eastside streets and also in the parking garage for a fee.