Northernmost Moonrise at the Octagon Earthwork (once every 18.6 years!) 🌙

Northernmost Moonrise at the Octagon Earthworks

Sat., Oct. 11, 2025, 9–11 p.m.
Fri., Nov. 7, 2025, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
In-person at the Octagon Earthworks, Newark

The Maximum Northern Moonrise is a once in a generation celestial event; it occurs every 18.6 years. The gateway connecting Observatory Circle to the Octagon enclosure is aligned perfectly with the Northernmost Moonrise at the Newark Earthworks.

Roughly 2,000 years ago, the Indigenous architects designed the earthen walls of this monument with this long lunar cycle in mind.

The Newark Earthworks are part of the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks World Heritage Site.

These monuments embody the close connection Indigenous peoples have with the land and sky, which is truly evident when one witnesses this event in person.

Come be a part of this significant occasion at the Octagon Earthworks! The evening will begin with a talk introducing the Hopewell Culture and the period in which the earthworks were created and a brief explanation of the 18.6 year lunar cycle.

After the talk we will journey into the center of Observatory Circle to witness the moon rise at its northernmost point through the avenue and gateways that connect the Octagon to the Observatory Circle.

Be sure to dress for the weather, wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a blanket or a folding chair.

Ohio History Connection members get early access to registration starting TODAY!

Registration will open to nonmembers on Sept. 8.

This program is free, but registration is required. Reserve your spot today

Join us at the Newark Octagon Earthworks to witness a rare lunar alignment that happens only once every 18.6 years. The Octagon’s eastern axis was designed to frame the Moon’s northernmost rise, and this year it happens on more than one night. Because the Moon lingers near its extreme declination for several weeks during a major standstill, multiple full or near-full Moons rise within the Octagon’s alignment window. Public viewings are scheduled for Oct 10–11 (Moonrise around 9–11 pm) and Nov 7 (Moonrise just after 6:45 pm), giving two opportunities to see the Octagon’s astronomical precision in action.

https://www.ohiohistory.org/events/the-northernmost-moonrise-at-the-octagon-earthworks/