THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE INTERNATIONAL OBSERVE THE MOON NIGHT (INOMN) ACTIVITY IN INCREASING STUDENT INTEREST AND COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION IN OBSERVING THE MOON.

Khairunnisa Nazwa B, Rizky Suci Ayunda, Muhammad Abdul Aziz, Ahmad Arrafif Hamdy

Abstract


The International Observe the Moon Night (InOMN) is a global outreach program
aimed at increasing public interest in astronomy through direct lunar observation. This study
examines the effectiveness of the InOMN activity organized by the Astronomy Observatory of the
University of Muhammadiyah North Sumatra (OIF UMSU), held on October 4, 2025, at Maimun
Palace, Medan, in enhancing student interest and community participation in Moon observation.
The activity involved collaboration with astronomy students and encouraged active interaction
between participants and organizers. Data were collected from 26 students who attended the
event and were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods, including frequency distribution
tables, bar charts, pie charts, histograms, and ogive curves. The results show that the dominant
score range was 43-45, obtained by six respondents, followed by the ranges of 40-42, 46-48, and
49-50 with four respondents each. Overall, 69.2% of respondents gave scores of 40 or above,
indicating a generally positive assessment. The mean score of 42.1 reflects a good level of
effectiveness, while the standard deviation of 5.65 suggests relatively stable responses among
participants. Although several technical and facility-related aspects still require improvement,
the findings indicate that InOMN was effective in fostering student interest and encouraging
positive engagement from the community. This study highlights the role of OIF UMSU in
supporting astronomy education and public understanding of celestial phenomena.


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