While many assume the moon is a perfect sphere, it’s actually oblong, says Cerrillos Hills State Park Manager Peter Lipscomb. We don’t see it because the side that faces Earth is the knobby side, he says.

That’s one of many facts Lipscomb will likely share during a hike focused on the moon Friday, May 26, at the park. Participants will walk about 1.5 miles total, starting and finishing at the main park entrance, a half-mile north of the village of Cerrillos on County Road 59.

While the hike begins before sunset, it is timed so that the moon will be directly overhead, Lipscomb says. The hike will last 90 minutes to two hours, he says, adding that there are some moderate elevation changes.

Lipscomb will tote a spotting scope — a daytime telescope — for participants’ use.

“The moon glow alone might be adequate once people’s eyes are adjusted,” he says, adding that participants may bring small flashlights if they prefer.

Hikers are asked to bring cash or a check to cover the park’s day-use fee. — B.S.

Moon hike

7 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 26

$5

Half-mile north of Cerrillos Hills State Park on County Road 59 cerrilloshills.org/events