Advice

How to set up an equatorial mount

Astronomy FAQs Why do I need to polar align my equatorial mount?

A good way of testing and enhancing the keenness of your eyes is by observing double stars. Credit: Ninian Boyle

Astronomy FAQs What sort of telescope is best for observing double stars?

If you're a planetary imager, make sure your laptop and software are ready for a new season of astronomy. Credit: Steve Marsh

Astronomy FAQs I would like a telescope I can use with my EOS 7D and laptop. Any suggestions?

Massive galaxy UGC 2885 Hubble Space Telescope, 5 January 2020 Credit: NASA, ESA, and B. Holwerda (University of Louisville)

Astronomy FAQs What type of mount is best for deep-sky astrophotography?

Venus appears near a crescent Moon. Credit: Pete Lawrence

Observing guide See Venus near a beautiful crescent Moon this weekend

Astrophotography can be tricky to do from a big city shrouded by light pollution. Credit: Paul Carstairs / Alamy Stock Photo

Astrophoto guides

How to capture astrophotos from a light-polluted city

Plain illuminated partially covered by fog, soft lights. Credit: elleon / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Astronomy FAQs How can I reduce light pollution at my telescope?

Telescope stats explained

Astronomy FAQs What can a field flattener or focal reducer do for my telescope?

Celestron CPC Deluxe 1100HD

Astronomy FAQs Why is there a black spot in my telescope's field of view?

Thanks to Kari Brown for her question, and for sending us in a picture of her mirror. Credit: Kari Brown

Astronomy FAQs My telescope's mirror is dull. Should I have it recoated?

Celestron 2-inch diagonal

Astronomy FAQs What is a diagonal used for on a telescope?

Meade ETX 90 Observer telescope

Astronomy FAQs I’m getting either a Meade NG 90 or ETX 90. Are these suitable for beginners?

Installing the right lighting around your home and garden can make all the difference to your stargazing sessions. Credit: Source/Alamy Stock Photo

The best outdoor lighting that will minimise light pollution

Celestron Omni XLT AZ 102 Refractor/basic mount

Astronomy FAQs I'm buying my first telescope. Should I get a reflector or a refractor?

Neptune and its largest moon Triton imaged through a 356mm telescope. Credit: Pete Lawrence

Astronomy FAQs My planetary photos appear tiny in my DSLR. Do I need more magnification?