Category: Fundamentals

There have been hundreds of deep sky catalogues compiled over the millennia, with a handful remaining popular with both professional and amateur astronomers alike. One of these is the New General Catalogue* (NGC), and it’s fair to say there probably isn’t a serious astronomer alive who hasn’t observed objects listed in it. That said, if…

Exploring the cosmos is an exhilarating experience for budding astronomers, and one celestial phenomenon that captivates both novice and seasoned stargazers alike is the enigmatic comet. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll unravel the mysteries of these cosmic wanderers, exploring what comets are, why they are special, and how to observe them with different instruments. What…

There was a time, hundreds of years ago, when you could look up at the night sky and see thousands of stars. The Milky Way would arch overhead and misty patches of light, such as the Andromeda Galaxy or the Beehive Cluster, could be easily seen from almost anywhere with just the naked eye. In…

Everyone remembers their first telescope – and for good reason. After staring at the night sky with just your eyes, it now seems as though the Moon, planets and even the distant stars themselves are now within your reach. The entire universe is at your doorstep. There’s just one problem: a lot of it seems…

Meteor showers, those celestial spectacles that paint the night sky with streaks of light, are awe-inspiring events that capture the imagination of both seasoned astronomers and casual skywatchers alike. If you’re gearing up for your first meteor shower experience, this comprehensive guide will ensure you make the most of this celestial extravaganza. From planning the…