Astronomy Day

Astronomy Day is an annual event in various countries, intended to provide a means of interaction between the general public and various astronomy enthusiasts, groups and professionals.

History
This event was started in 1973 by Doug Berger, the president of the Astronomical Association of Northern California. His intent was to set up various telescopes in busy urban locations so that passersby could enjoy views of the heavens. Since then the event has expanded and is now sponsored by a number of organizations associated with astronomy.

Originally, Astronomy Day occurred on a Saturday between mid-April and mid-May, and was scheduled so as to occur at or close to the first quarter Moon. In 2007, an autumn Astronomy Day was added. It was scheduled to occur on a Saturday between mid-September and mid-October so as to be on or close to the first quarter Moon.

Future events
The lunar influence on the schedule means that the events happen on a different date each year, rather than set calendar dates. The table below shows the dates for up coming Astronomy Days:

Past events
The Astronomical League canceled the in-person event in 2020 due to the global pandemic of COVID-19 virus. Some organizations, such as the Lowell Observatory, hosted virtual events to continue the tradition.