Articles
Guides to galaxies, nebulae, telescopes, and the night sky — for curious minds everywhere.
How to Watch the Perseid Meteor Shower Like a Pro
The Perseids are the most reliable meteor shower of the year. Here's everything you need to know to get the best view — no telescope required.
Team Visit Astronomy · Oct 22, 2026
Observing Saturn's Rings: What You Can Actually See
Saturn's rings are the single most jaw-dropping sight in a backyard telescope. Here's what to expect at every aperture and how to get the sharpest view possible.
Team Visit Astronomy · Oct 17, 2026
Astronomy Journals and Logbooks: Why Recording Observations Matters
Keeping an observing journal transforms casual stargazing into a deeper practice. Here's why recording your observations makes you a better astronomer and how to start.
Team Visit Astronomy · Oct 13, 2026
Stellarium: The Free Planetarium Software Every Stargazer Needs
Stellarium is the most powerful free planetarium software available — a realistic sky simulator that helps you plan observations, identify objects, and learn the sky. Here's how to set it up and get the most from it.
Team Visit Astronomy · Oct 6, 2026
Full Moon Calendar 2026: Names, Dates, and Folklore
Every full Moon in 2026 at a glance — dates, traditional names, and the stories behind them. Plus tips for observing and photographing the full Moon.
Team Visit Astronomy · Oct 3, 2026
Star Trail Photography: How to Capture Circles in the Sky
Star trail images turn the Earth's rotation into art — long arcs of light sweeping across your frame. Here's how to plan, shoot, and stack star trail photographs with any camera.
Team Visit Astronomy · Sep 22, 2026
Finding Dark Skies Near You: A Practical Guide to Light Pollution Maps
Light pollution steals the night sky from billions of people. But dark skies are closer than you think. Here's how to use light pollution maps to find the best stargazing spots near you.
Team Visit Astronomy · Sep 15, 2026
Star Clusters Explained: Open vs Globular
Open clusters and globular clusters are both collections of stars, but they differ in almost every way. Here's how to tell them apart and why both are essential observing targets.
Team Visit Astronomy · Sep 8, 2026
How to Polar Align Your Telescope in Under 10 Minutes
Polar alignment is the single most important step for accurate tracking and astrophotography. This step-by-step guide covers rough alignment, drift alignment, and electronic methods.
Team Visit Astronomy · Sep 5, 2026
Astronomy on a Budget: Best Gear Under $200
You don't need expensive equipment to enjoy the night sky. Here are the best astronomy tools and accessories you can get for under $200.
Team Visit Astronomy · Aug 25, 2026