Moon Watcher

Greetings, aspiring Astronomer! Prepare to embark on a fantastic journey through the night sky, exploring the ever-changing face of the moon. You'll observe and learn about the moon's fascinating transformations from crescents to full moons. Equip yourself with binoculars, and if you need assistance, enlist an observation partner and embark on this celestial adventure together!

What You'll Need:

  • Curiosity 
  • ​Nature Journal, and pencils
  • Braille slate and stylus 
  • (Tactile) drawing paper
  • Favorite drawing tools
  • Tactile markers
  • Internet access for research 
  • Screen reader (if available)
  • Optional: family member or friend to assist
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​Here are some internet sites to get you started.

Instructions:

Step 1. Moon Phase Observation:
Now, it's time to embark on your moon-viewing adventure! Invite your observation partner to join your adventure and describe the celestial show if needed. 

  • Find a quiet and comfortable spot to observe the night sky. It can be by a window, balcony, backyard, or another place with a clear night sky view.
  • Return to the same spot each night to observe the moon's shape and phase. 


Step 2. Switch On Your Senses:
Stand or sit quietly, close your eyes, clear your mind, breathe slowly and deeply, and take in the sensations around you. Focus on what you feel, hear, and smell. Then, slowly open your eyes and use your senses to observe the moon and your surroundings.

For example:
  • Touch: Feel the gentle glow of moonlight on your skin.
  • Smell: Inhale deeply and discover the different scents of the moonlit night. Is it the sweet fragrance of flowers, the smell of human activity, or something else? Let these scents help you feel more connected to the moon and your surroundings.
  • Silent/Sound: Tune in to the night symphony. Listen closely; can you pick up the nighttime calls of insects and animals? Observe if their tunes change in strength across the different moon phases. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, let your other senses guide you into the quiet beauty of the moonlit night and the surrounding environment.
  • Sight/Imagination: Observe the moon and the gentle glow of moonlight in your surroundings. If you have low or no vision, visualize the moon and your moonlit surroundings using your imagination and available senses.


Step 3. Sketch the Moon:
  • Use your Moon Watcher's Journal or (tactile) drawing paper to sketch or create tactile drawings for each moon phase. Label them, if needed, with braille or tactile markers. Describe their features and shapes as you progress. 
  • Use online resources and a screen reader to access moon phase information if required.


Step 4: Record Your Observations
  • In your Moon Watcher's Journal or braille slate, record the date and location you undertook your moon observations, the moon phase, and any other exciting things you noticed, such as craters and color changes. 
  • If you collaborated with an observation partner, share and discuss your sketches or tactile drawings. Talk about the discoveries, observations, and findings you have each made. Add this information and any sensory observations you made throughout the exploration to your Moon Watcher's Journal or braille slate.
  • You now have an excellent resource, enabling you to revisit the details of your observations and findings whenever needed.


Step 5. Questions:​
Write the answers to the following questions in your Moon Watcher's Journal or braille slate.

  1. What interested you the most when watching the moon's phases?
  2. How did your observations of the moon affect your understanding of the Earth's place in the solar system?
  3. Did you see any patterns or changes in the moon's behavior as you watched it over time?
  4. What emotions or feelings did you experience during your moon observations? How did the moon's presence affect your mood?
  5. What was your most exciting discovery when exploring lunar phases using tactile materials? How did these tactile experiences help you connect with the moon and its ever-changing appearance? 
  6. In what ways did your observations connect you to nature, and did they deepen your appreciation for the night sky and its celestial wonders?


​ Step 7. Share Your Discoveries:
Have fun comparing and sharing the findings you and your moon-viewing partner have discovered. Proudly show your awesome sketches and tactile drawings to your friends, family, and others important to you! Encourage them to join you on your next moon-viewing adventure.


Conclusion:
This moon-viewing adventure lets you connect with the night sky. It's a journey of wonder, art, and science that reveals the moon's secrets to everyone. Have fun as you continue your journey of discovery, aspiring ​ Astronomer!

Image credit: Photograph by Alberto Giacomazzi