Anyone who is interested in getting a closer look at the surface of the moon can join the International Observe the Moon Night festivities Friday, Oct. 19, for a full night of lunar viewing. 

The event, which is free and open to the public, will take place from 7-9 p.m. at the Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub, 204 E. Fourth St. in North Little Rock. In case of rain, the event will be held Saturday, Oct. 20.

Telescopes will be set up for a close-up look at the moon’s surface, with a zoom in on craters, lava plains and tunnels, and mountains. Members of the Central Arkansas Astronomical Society and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock Department of Physics and Astronomy will be on hand to answer questions and provide insight on the moon.

Dr. Tony Hall, UA Little Rock associate professor of astronomy, will provide meteorite samples for viewing and touching. Additionally, Bruce McMath of the Central Arkansas Astronomical Society will give a talk on light pollutions and tips for observing the moon.

The Innovation Hub will also be holding its “Make it Scary” event from 5-8 p.m., where guests can screen print Halloween-themed T-shirts, laser cut Halloween crafts, and paint pottery.