Look up Friday: UCF invites Orlando-area residents to explore the Moon

Central Florida skywatchers can get an up-close look at the Moon — and other night-sky sights — Friday night at the University of Central Florida.UCF will host International Observe the Moon Night from 8 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16, at the UCF Reflecting Pond. The free event is open to the public and welcomes visitors of all ages.Organized by SpaceU and UCF’s Robinson Observatory, the worldwide celebration highlights lunar science, space exploration and the night sky.What to expectVisitors can look through high-powered portable telescopes operated by Robinson Observatory, with views of the Moon and other celestial objects, weather permitting.The event will also feature hands-on “moony” activities, science demonstrations and educational displays from UCF’s Physics Department, Astronomy Society and other space-focused student organizations. UCF Libraries and the English Department will host themed learning and creative-media activities.What to know before you goWhen: 8–9:30 p.m. Friday,