Advice
Expert advice to help you get the most out of stargazing, from DIY projects to practical astronomy tips.
The sting in the stars – how to see the constellation Scorpius, the scorpion in the night sky
The next two mornings see the crescent Moon meet Venus, Jupiter and Mercury in the pre-dawn sky
Six planets and the Moon align. Everything you need to know about this week's planet alignment
Imaging the Planets Masterclass Series
Our spring 2024 series lifts the lid on photographing the planets, with three of the best planetary imagers in the game.
Save 20% when you buy all three as a series booking
Eclipses 2024 | This year's solar and lunar eclipses
Find out when the next solar and lunar eclipses are occurring, and where you can see them.
What's new?
6 deep-sky objects to observe around Polaris, the North Star
There are plenty of deep-sky targets for astronomers to observe around Polaris. Take our astronomy treasure hunt around the North Celestial Pole.
A complete guide to observing the Plough in the night sky
How to find the Plough star pattern and use it as a signpost to locate other celestial targets.
4 star-hops to help you navigate the night sky
Use these easy methods to find 4 different targets in the night sky.
A guide to Kemble's Cascade
Advice on how to observe Kemble's Cascade, and images of the asterism.
The constellation Camelopardalis is visible all year long, and is home of many beautiful deep-sky objects
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.
Telescope Mounts: a beginner's guide
What are telescope mounts, what are the different types and why do astronomers use them? Find out in our beginners' guide.
Why image stabilising binoculars are worth it
Modern binoculars are benefitting more and more from image stabilisation technology. S
Buyer's guide | Best telescopes for astrophotography
How to choose a telescope for photographing the night sky, and some of the best models available.
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.
Can't see the aurora? You can detect it with a homemade magnetometer
Follow our guide to create your own record of space weather and produce an audio recording of it. Written by Stuart Green
How to stop dew forming on your telescope
Why dew forms on your telescope's optics, and how you can stop it from fogging up your observing.
How to make a solar projection screen for safe observing the Sun or solar eclipse
Safely record features moving across the face of the Sun with this simple device.
Skills
Expert advice on a range of practical astronomy techniques, from setting up your telescope to combatting light pollution.
How to observe variable stars and track their brightness over time
In astronomy, not all stars shine with constant brightness. Here we show you how to chart the changes in variable stars.
Perseids 2024 | How to see this month's meteor shower
The Perseid meteor shower begins late July and peaks every August. Find out how you can spot a Perseid in the night sky this month.
Meteor showers | When the next one is, and how to see it
Find out whether there is a meteor shower occurring above the UK tonight, when the next one is, and how to see a meteor for yourself.