The Astronomical League (A.L.) has many observing programs. Their lunar observing program was designed to encourage star gazers to observe and learn more about the Moon by identifying one hundred features listed for their Lunar Club Program.

The A.L. will award Lunar Club pins and certificates for completing their Lunar I program if you are an A.L. member (either as a Member-at-Large or through an affiliated club (as the Alachua Astronomy Club, Inc.).

If interested, download their required observing list of features (also included in each of the three map sets below).

I have prepared three sets of lunar maps (specifically designed to identify the required 100 lunar features). Download one or more of these three Moon map pdf files to help identify the required features.

Each map set contains 39 pages including the A.L.'s Lunar I Club's Observing Sheets for recording your observations. Maps should be printed at "best resolution" to show clearly the lunar features.

Send suggestions and corrections to cohenhlc@gmail.com.

To qualify for the A.L.'s Lunar Program Certificate and pin, you need only be a member of the Astronomical League, either through an affiliated club or as a Member-at-Large, and observe 100 features on the moon..

These 100 features are broken down into three groups: 18 naked eye, 46 binocular, and 36 telescopic features.

Any pair of binoculars and any telescope may be used for this program. As a matter of fact, to prove that the Lunar Program could be done with small apertures, we used 7x35 binoculars and a 60mm refractor. So, as you can see, this program does not require expensive equipment.

Also, if you have problems with observing the features at one level, you may go up to the next higher level. In other words, if you have trouble with any of the naked eye objects, you may jump up to binoculars. If you have trouble with any of the binocular objects, then you may move up to a telescope.

Before moving up to the next higher level, please try to get as many objects as you can with the instrument required at that level. Finally, when using binoculars, we recommend that you tripod mount them for stability.

For more information about the AL's Lunar Program see their Lunar Program Website.