🌕 Blue Moon & The Dance of the Planets🔭
Get ready for an out-of-this-world experience this upcoming long weekend in Menzies! The Shire is hosting a special community event to witness a rare celestial triple-threat: a Blue Moon, a Micromoon, and a Planetary Alignment, all in one incredible evening.
Whether you're a local resident or visiting for the long weekend, join us for a relaxed afternoon and an evening of cosmic wonder.
Key Details 📍
When: From 4:00 PM, Sunday 31st May 2026
Where: Menzies Caravan Park, followed by stargazing at the Mount Owen Observing Site (Cemetery Road, Menzies) 🔭
Cost: FREE
What to bring: Warm clothing and camp chairs for comfort.
Come along, grab a bite to eat, and marvel at the spectacular Goldfields night sky with us! 🌕✨
Why is this night so special? 🪐
This isn't just any full moon. We are witnessing a rare combination of lunar and planetary events:
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The Blue Moon 🌕: As the second full moon in the month of May, it earns the title of a "Blue Moon"—a phenomenon that only happens every two to three years. There is a perfectly timed window to witness this moon rise while the sky is still glowing with twilight.
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The Micromoon 🌑: The moon will be at apogee, its furthest point from Earth in its orbit. This makes it the official "Micromoon"—the smallest full moon of 2026!
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Planetary Alignment 🔭: Following sunset, our telescopes will turn west to catch the “Dance of the Planets,” taking a closer look at Mercury, Jupiter, and Venus before they dip below the horizon.
Event Schedule 🗓️
Kick off the evening with a free community BBQ at the caravan park, followed by a telescope session at the Mount Owen Stargazing Pad.
| Time |
Activity |
Location |
| 4:00 PM |
🌭 Free Community BBQ |
Menzies Caravan Park (Main St) |
| 4:30 PM |
🔭 Telescope Viewing Begins |
Mount Owen Stargazing Pad |
| 4:43 PM |
🌕 Blue Micromoon Rise |
Mount Owen Stargazing Pad |
| 5:04 PM |
🌅 Sunset & Planetary Viewing |
Mount Owen Stargazing Pad |
