This article was submitted to Glenside Local by Ava Adames, owner of Violets in Bloom

On the evening of October 4th, families, astronomy lovers, and curious minds gathered for National Observe the Moon Night in Cheltenham Township. The event was a collaboration between the Elkins Park Free Library and Friends of High School Park, creating a beautiful bridge between learning and an outdoor live experience.

The evening began at the Free Library, where NASA Ambassador Ann Schmiedekamp led a captivating discussion about the moon’s density, the mystery of its far and near sides, and the ancient origins of the Maria — the dark plains that mark its surface. Her presentation sparked curiosity, especially among younger guests eager to understand the moon’s hidden secrets.

Creative moments came as families worked together to recreate the moon’s phases using flashlights and glow-in-the-dark ping-pong balls. The moons phases were also created with Oreo cookies! Guests used them to model the moon’s phases, carefully scraping away the cream to form crescents and full moons before enjoying the tasty “research.” 

Later, the crowd made their way to High School Park, where the observation portion of the evening began. Several community-owned telescopes were set up, inviting guests to gaze up and see the moon in brilliant detail. Seeing its craters, shadows, and luminous glow sparked awe.

“Everyone worked together as a team to make it happen,” said Tammra, board member of Friends of High School Park. “It was wonderful to see people of all ages collaborating and learning together under one moon.”

If the night could be described in three words, they would be bright, discovery, and community. The moon shone brilliantly overhead, the audience learned and laughed together, and neighbors connected through a shared sense of wonder.

With perfect weather, shared telescopes, and glowing smiles, this year’s Observe the Moon Night reminded everyone that when science and community come together, learning becomes an experience of joy, connection, and celestial magic. 

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Photos by Sara Tekavec