Advice
Expert advice to help you get the most out of stargazing, from DIY projects to practical astronomy tips.
Observing guide | Planets, October 2024
Our guide to observing the planets in October
Right now is the best time to see Saturn. The planet is spectacular and its rings are on view. Here's how you can see it tonight
Saturn is at opposition in October 2026, which makes it the perfect time to observe the planet and its famous rings
Those two bright morning stars? That's Mars and Jupiter – and the pair are going to be spectacular this month
In October 2026, Mars and Jupiter are among the highlights of the morning sky
Castor and Pollux, the twin stars of Gemini
How to find Castor and Pollux in Gemini, and facts about the twin stars.
See the Harvest Moon rise with Saturn this weekend
See the September 2026 full Moon rise next to the ringed planet
What's new?
When is the Harvest Moon? From London to Tokyo to New York, key timings for the full Moon this weekend
Key timings for the rise of the Harvest Moon across the world
How to see star Aldebaran, the fiery eye of the Bull
A guide to Aldebaran in Taurus and how to find it in the night sky.
The Pleiades is a beautiful blue star cluster that's easy to see with the naked eye. Here's how to catch it
A guide to M45, also known as the Pleiades, by the late Patrick Moore
Why it's called Harvest Moon
The Harvest Moon is a sure sign that autumn is here. Here's the science behind the Harvest Moon and where it gets its name from
How to photograph the Harvest Moon
Photograph the Harvest Moon with a DSLR camera and telescope in our astophotography guide.
Buyer's Guides
Thinking about your first scope or looking to upgrade your camera? Our buyer's guides will help you get to grips with what's available.
Buyer's guide | Best telescopes for astrophotography
How to choose a telescope for photographing the night sky, and some of the best models available.
Best red light head torches
Maintain your dark adaptation and keep your hands free while stargazing with the best red light head torches for astronomers.
Top travel telescopes
For astronomy travel you'll need a compact, portable telescope that delivers results. We've picked some of the best budget and high-end travel telescopes.
Astronomy DIY
Our How-to and DIY projects to help you get the best out of practical astronomy, from home-made accessories to practical observing tutorials.
Build a solar projector to safely observe the Sun or a solar eclipse
Project an image of the Sun for safe observing with this step-by-step DIY astronomy build.
Turn your telescope into a solar eclipse projector. Make a solar projection screen for observing the Sun or a solar eclipse
Safely record features moving across the face of the Sun with this simple device.
Build a solar funnel to safely observe the Sun or solar eclipse through your telescope
This easy-to-make device lets you view the Sun or solar eclipse in safety.
Skills
Expert advice on a range of practical astronomy techniques, from setting up your telescope to combatting light pollution.
Your guide to the best planets visible in September 2026 and how to see them
Our stargazer's guide to the best planets to see in September
How to photograph a lunar eclipse
Read our astrophotography guide and image a lunar eclipse.
How to make and use a pinhole camera
Try our DIY pinhole camera project for a low-effort way to trace the path of the Sun across the sky.
