International Moon Day is an annually celebrated international day, established as recently as in 2022 by the General Assembly of the United Nations, that pays tribute to one of humanity's greatest achievements: the first manned lunar landing. Observed on 20 July, this day commemorates the historic moment when astronauts Neil Armstrong and Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin set foot on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969.
This day not only honours the success of the Apollo 11 mission, but also serves as a platform to promote space exploration and research. It encourages global cooperation on space missions, fostering collaborations among nations to deepen our understanding of the cosmos.
Various events and activities are organised on International Moon Day to raise awareness of lunar exploration. Educational programmes, exhibitions, and stargazing sessions are conducted to provide insights into the moon's geology, history, and its potential for future exploration. It is an opportunity for individuals to learn about the various moon missions that have taken place, from the iconic Apollo 11 mission to the recent lunar missions carried out by different nations.
Moreover, International Moon Day encourages discussions about the importance of space exploration and the potential benefits it holds for humanity. It sparks conversations about the possibility of future lunar colonisation, resource utilisation, and further scientific research.
On this occasion, we encourage you to watch these videos to practise your interpretation skills and learn more about lunar exploration: