International Moon Day

July 20, Sunday

International Moon Day is celebrated annually on July 20. This date was not chosen by chance — on July 20, 1969, the Apollo 11 spacecraft delivered the first humans to the Moon. Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin were the first to set foot on Earth's satellite.

The holiday was officially established by the United Nations in 2021 at the initiative of the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) and is held under the auspices of UNESCO.

Goals and objectives of the holiday

* Popularizing knowledge about the Moon and space exploration
* Supporting international cooperation in space study
* Drawing attention to scientific achievements and future space missions
* Inspiring new generations of scientists, engineers, and astronomers

Why the Moon is important for humanity

* It is the closest celestial body to Earth
* It influences tides
* The Moon plays a key role in stabilizing Earth's axial tilt
* Research on the Moon helps prepare for future missions to Mars and other planets
* Lunar resources, including water ice, could serve as the basis for establishing permanent bases

How International Moon Day is observed

* Holding lectures, seminars, and scientific conferences
* Organizing Moon observations using telescopes
* Conducting educational events in schools and universities
* Promoting the history of spaceflight through films, exhibitions, and museums
* Online broadcasts and meetings with astronauts and space experts

Interesting facts about the Moon

* The Moon is moving away from Earth by about 3.8 centimetres per year
* There is no atmosphere on the Moon, so no sound and the sky is always black
* Gravity on the Moon is only about one-sixth of Earth's
* A lunar eclipse occurs when Earth is between the Sun and the Moon
* The Moon does not emit its own light — it reflects sunlight

Conclusion
International Moon Day is not only a reminder of humanity’s giant leap into space, but also an opportunity to reflect on the future of exploring outer space. It unites people around the world in their quest to explore the universe, emphasizing science, cooperation, and inspiration.

Official website

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International Moon Day in other years

2021 July 20, Tuesday
2022 July 20, Wednesday
2023 July 20, Thursday
2024 July 20, Saturday
2026 July 20, Monday

International Moon Day in other countries