Every July 20th is observed as International Moon Day. This holiday not only honors the historic first landing of humans on the Moon but also promotes the need for sustainable and peaceful Moon exploration and utilization.

In other words, the exploration and use of the Moon should be done with the needs of all human beings in mind. The Moon isn’t something that can be claimed by one nation over everyone else.

It’s a symbol and potential resource that can benefit all humans as the species begins to journey into space to explore the rest of the solar system and eventually the cosmos.

The History of International Moon Day

International Moon Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly on December 9th, 2021, through Resolution A/RES/76/76.

This resolution was based on the recommendation of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space. The 20th of July was chosen to commemorate this holiday because it is the anniversary of the first human landing on the Moon in 1969.

Important Facts About the Moon

Since we’re observing International Moon Day, we thought we’d take a few moments to talk about the Moon. Yes, that beautiful satellite that looks down on us night after night. So, let’s take a few moments to talk about it before moving on.

• The Moon is the fifth-largest natural satellite in the solar system.
• The Moon is in synchronous rotation with Earth. As a result, we always see the same side of it.
• The Moon is 400 times closer to Earth than the Sun.
• The Sun is 400 times larger than the Moon.
• The Moon experiences its own earthquakes, although they’re not called that but are instead referred to as moonquakes.
• The Moon is drifting away from Earth at a rate of about 3.8 cm per year.
• Scientists believe that the Moon was formed when a Mars-sized body collided with Earth approximately 4.5 billion years ago.
• The Moon is approximately 27% the size of Earth.
• The Moon is about 240,000 miles away from Earth.
• The presence of the Moon has helped to stabilize Earth’s orbit, which has moderated the climate.

Observing International Moon Day

International Moon Day can be observed simply by learning more about the Moon landing and taking the time to think about the future of space exploration.

Over the next few decades, space exploration is going to be an important part of modern life, so now is the time to get excited about it. People can also use the hashtag #InternationalMoonDay to spread the news about this holiday online.