With Artemis-II successfully launched on April 1st, ALPO invites observers to support active lunar science through Impact Flash!, a citizen-science initiative led by the GEODES team at the University of Maryland. Impact flashes – brief bursts of light from meteoroids striking the Moon’s night side – offer rare but scientifically valuable clues about the population of small bodies in the Solar System.

As Artemis-II astronauts begin their journey around the Moon, coordinated Earth-based observations will help researchers compare what astronauts witness with what amateur astronomers record. This is a unique moment to contribute to real-time lunar science.

Observers with a modest telescope, a video-capable camera, and accurate timestamps can help detect and document these fleeting events. Your data will support studies of lunar hazards, surface impacts, and future seismic investigations of the Moon’s interior – critical for understanding the lunar environment and planning future missions.

Whether you're a seasoned lunar observer or just getting started, your participation matters. Join a global network of contributors helping scientists explore the Moon’s dynamic surface and its response to cosmic impacts.

For more details see https://www.geodes.umd.edu/impactflash.

The Association of Lunar & Planetary Observers is pleased to announce the release of the Winter 2026 issue of the Journal of the ALPO (JALPO 68 1). This edition delivers fresh research, historical context, and updates from across the Solar System observing community.

Journal Editor Shawn Dilles opens with a timely Point of View column, offering what he describes as a “Solar System Tsunami Warning” as the Vera Rubin Observatory begins full operations and prepares to deliver an unprecedented flow of southern hemisphere Solar System data.

This issue features Rik Hill’s latest Carrington Rotation Report, Carl Hergenrother’s analysis of four Jupiter family comets, and Raffaello Lena’s detailed study of 16 lunar domes using both ground based and spacecraft datasets. You’ll also find general interest news, the official minutes of the 2025 Board of Directors meeting, and a retrospective look at The Strolling Astronomer from 75, 50, and 25 years ago.

The digital edition includes live hyperlinks, intuitive navigation, and full color presentation—produced for you, the Solar System astronomer. ALPO members can download their copy here.

The Association of Lunar and Planetary Observers is inviting everyone (members and non‑members alike) to participate in our newly launched ALPO Survey. Your feedback is essential in helping us understand how well we are serving the community and where we can grow.

This survey is an opportunity to share your experiences, highlight what you value most, and let us know what you’d like to see more of in the months and years ahead. Whether you’re deeply involved in ALPO programs or simply follow our work from afar, your voice matters.

You can access the survey at https://bit.ly/AlpoSurvey2026

🗓 Survey closes April 30, 2026

We encourage all visitors to take a few minutes to complete the survey and help shape the future of ALPO’s programs, publications, and outreach efforts.

Thank you for supporting the mission of the ALPO and contributing to a stronger, more responsive organization.