
The Association of Lunar and Planetary Observers Lunar Section focuses on the topography of our nearest neighbor in space. It maintains a gallery that contains thousands of images and drawings of the Moon based on the Rükl Atlas of the Moon as well as offering multiple programs that the amateur astronomer can contribute to. The section has a monthly newsletter entitled The Lunar Observer that features lunar articles, drawings, and images from similar-minded lunar amateur astronomers across the globe. Contributors use telescopes of all sizes, from 60 mm to over 1 meter - but most observations are done with small, modest telescopes. We welcome you joining our ranks and contributing to the ALPO Lunar Section to enhance your observing skills and learn from other more experienced observers.
Lunar Blog
Please find below the 001 2026 ALPO The Lunar Observer newsletter.
PLEASE CONTACT ME IF YOU CAN NOT OPEN THIS!
Find the 001 2026 The Lunar Observer here.
Clear Skies,
David Teske
Coordinator, Lunar Topographic Studies Program
Assn of Lunar & Planetary Observers
Image Spotlight
Equipment: Orion f/10 SkyQuest XX16g Dobsonian, ZWO ASI676MC camera
This very detailed close-up of Aristarchus shows what a large aperture telescope paired with a veteran lunar and planetary imager can produce. Aristarchus is the brightest crater on the Moon, is youthful in age for the Moon and is a location of Lunar Transient Phenomenon.
Lunar Programs
The A.L.P.O. Lunar Section has several programs targeting specific areas of lunar study. They include:
- Lunar Topographical Studies Program
- Banded Craters Program
- Bright Lunar Rays Program
- Lunar Transient Phenomena Program
- Lunar Meteoritic Impact Program
- Lunar Domes Program
Use the menu item at the top to learn more about these programs and to visit their content.
Monthly Lunar Calendar
| Date (UT) | Event |
|---|---|
| 2026-01-18 19:52 | New Moon, lunation 1275 |
| 2026-01-22 00:00 | West limb most exposed -5.4° |
| 2026-01-22 00:03 | Moon at ascending node |
| 2026-01-23 13:00 | Saturn 4° south of the Moon |
| 2026-01-26 04:47 | First Quarter |
| 2026-01-27 22:00 | Moon in Pleiades |
| 2026-01-28 00:00 | South limb most exposed -6.6° |
| 2026-01-29 22:00 | Moon at perigee 365, 871 km |
| 2026-01-30 00:00 | Greatest northern declination +28.0° |
| 2026-01-31 02:00 | Jupiter 4° south of Moon |