Articles

Guides to galaxies, nebulae, telescopes, and the night sky — for curious minds everywhere.

Astronomy Sketching: Drawing What You See Through the Eyepiece
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Astronomy Sketching: Drawing What You See Through the Eyepiece

Before cameras, every astronomer was a sketcher. Learn how this simple practice sharpens your observing skills, deepens your connection to the sky, and produces beautiful records of what you see.

Team Visit Astronomy · Apr 16, 2026

The Trifid Nebula M20: Where Stars Are Born in Three Colors
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The Trifid Nebula M20: Where Stars Are Born in Three Colors

The Trifid Nebula combines emission, reflection, and dark nebulae in a single stunning object. Learn what makes M20 unique and how to observe this three-part wonder.

Team Visit Astronomy · Apr 14, 2026

The Pleiades M45: Winter's Most Beautiful Star Cluster
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The Pleiades M45: Winter's Most Beautiful Star Cluster

The Pleiades is one of the most recognizable sights in the night sky — a tiny dipper of blue-white stars that has captivated humans for thousands of years. Here's everything you need to know to observe M45.

Team Visit Astronomy · Apr 11, 2026

Goto Telescopes Explained: Are They Worth It?
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Goto Telescopes Explained: Are They Worth It?

Goto telescopes promise to find any object at the push of a button. But are they the right choice for you? We break down the pros, cons, costs, and alternatives so you can decide with confidence.

Team Visit Astronomy · Apr 9, 2026

Lunar Observing Guide: Craters, Seas, and the Best Moon Phases
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Lunar Observing Guide: Craters, Seas, and the Best Moon Phases

The Moon is the most accessible object in the night sky, yet most observers barely scratch the surface. Discover which phases reveal the most detail and how to navigate craters, seas, and mountain ranges.

Team Visit Astronomy · Apr 7, 2026

Observing Mars: Best Times and What You'll See
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Observing Mars: Best Times and What You'll See

Mars is one of the most rewarding planets to observe — but only if you know when to look. Discover the best times to view Mars, what features to watch for, and how to get the most from every opposition.

Team Visit Astronomy · Apr 4, 2026

Betelgeuse: The Red Giant That Might Explode
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Betelgeuse: The Red Giant That Might Explode

Betelgeuse is a massive, dying star on Orion's shoulder that will one day explode as a supernova. When it does, it will be visible in daylight. Here's what we know.

Team Visit Astronomy · Apr 2, 2026

Binoculars for Astronomy: Why They Might Be Better Than a Telescope
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Binoculars for Astronomy: Why They Might Be Better Than a Telescope

Before you buy a bigger telescope, consider what a good pair of binoculars can do. They're portable, intuitive, and reveal more of the sky than you might expect.

Team Visit Astronomy · Mar 31, 2026

How to See the International Space Station Tonight
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How to See the International Space Station Tonight

The ISS is one of the brightest objects in the night sky and you can see it with just your eyes. Here's exactly how to find it, when to look, and what to expect.

Team Visit Astronomy · Mar 28, 2026

The Ring Nebula M57: A Cosmic Smoke Ring in Lyra
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The Ring Nebula M57: A Cosmic Smoke Ring in Lyra

The Ring Nebula is one of the easiest planetary nebulae to find and one of the most fascinating to study. Here's how to observe it and what you're actually seeing.

Team Visit Astronomy · Mar 26, 2026