Introduction to Astronomy & Stargazing

Binoculars and Telescopes

Then move in for a closer look with Binoculars or a Telescope. There are many different options (and price ranges) for telescopes. In all cases, it is NOT about magnification, it is about APERTURE. The wider the telescope’s mirror or lens, the more light it will capture and the more you can see. For someone starting out, a reflector with a Dobsonian mount (a “Dob”) is often the best choice. A reflex (“red dot”) finder such as a Telrad is also useful. Recently, several “smart” telescopes have been introduced allowing even novices to do some astrophotography.

The Moon

The Moon is a great target to observe. It is big and easy to find (most of the time). The best time to observe the Moon is during its first or third quarter when you can see features along the terminator between the light and dark sides. The worst time is during a full moon – it is just too bright, and it washes out much of the night sky.

The Planets

The planets are a little more difficult to spot. They generally move west to east against the background of stars. You’ll need an online sky map such as Stellarium Web or a smartphone/tablet app such as Sky Guide or SkySafari to locate them. Jupiter and Saturn offer the best view. You can spot the phases of Venus and Mercury. Mars is a little disappointing – most telescopes reveal little detail. For some background information about the planets, our Solar System, and more, see All About The Cosmos.

The Stars

The stars themselves can be something to view. However, in most cases, there are just points of light. But you can go hunting for stars of different color, double or triple stars, and variable stars.

Meteors

Meteors, and particularly, meteor showers can be a great view. Meteor Showers are best viewed from a dark location on a moonless night. Most peak after midnight.

• Meteoroids are dust and small chunks of rock hurtling through space.
• Meteors are meteoroids that enter the Earth’s atmosphere and streak across the sky with a glowing tail.
• Meteorites are meteoroids that hit the ground.

Deep-Sky Objects

There are many deep-sky objects worth looking for. Some, such as open star clusters, can be seen with even small telescopes. Others, such as galaxies, are best observed through the larger scopes. A few that are spread out are a great view with binoculars. The most well known are call Messier objects. Don’t expect glorious color! We’re not NASA. Most will appear black and white. If you want color, you’ll have to get one of the new ”smart” telescopes or move up to astrophotography.