Paul Abel
Astronomer
Paul G Abel is the director of the British Astronomical Association’s Mercury and Venus section, and a theoretical physicist at the University of Leicester.
Recent articles by Paul Abel
Want to make the most of the Perseid meteor shower? We asked a professional astronomer for their top tips
Want to get the best out of this year's Perseid Meteor Shower? Professional astronomer Paul G. Abel reveals his top tips.
Galileo's observations of Jupiter changed how we view the Universe
How simple observations of Jupiter and its largest moons changed the course of scientific history.
Discover the Solar System from your back garden. Top tips for observing the planets in the night sky
How to make the most of your observations of the worlds of the Solar System.
Venus's ashen light: the mysterious glow from the dark-side of second planet from the Sun
For hundreds of years, astronomers have pondered whether there is any truth to testimonies of a glow illuminating the dark side of Venus.
Using telescope filters will improve your observations of the Solar System planets. Here's how to do it.
The best filters to use for planetary observing.
Observing guide | See Mars as it approaches opposition
As Mars approaches opposition, take time to make the most of the Red Planet.
Astronomy explained | Why is Pluto not a planet?
Is Pluto a planet? If not, why not? What makes a planet a planet, and why was the 9th in the Solar System reclassified as a dwarf planet?
Observe and make a scientific record of the Geminid meteor shower
Graduate from casual shooting star observer to meteor-spotting citizen scientist.
How to observe Jupiter through a telescope
See the gas giant through a telescope and observe its weather patterns, large moons and Great Red Spot.
Venus returns | 6 ways to enjoy observing the Evening Star this season
Venus is back in the evening sky. Find out some of the best ways to make the most of the Evening Star's prominence.
How to draw Mars at your telescope
Read our top tips on making an accurate sketch of the Red Planet.
How to observe variable stars
In astronomy, not all stars shine with constant brightness. Here we show you how to chart the changes in variable stars.
How to find and observe a supernova through your telescope
It is possible to spot supernovae using your telescope and in doing so, make valuable contributions to astronomy.
How to keep an astronomical log book
Keeping an astronomy log book or journal helps you record what you see in the night sky and creates a valuable scientific record.
Why we should send a spacecraft to explore Uranus
What would a mission to explore the 7th planet from the Sun reveal, and how would it get there?
How to draw Jupiter
Sketching is an important skill for any visual observer. Follow our guide and start making your own drawings of Jupiter.
A guide to the mountains of Venus
Paul G Abel investigates enigmatic Venus and the unsolved puzzle of its fabled Himalayan peaks.
See Venus the 'Evening Star' in the night sky this month
The appearance of Venus in the evening sky will be an easy treat to observe over the coming months. Paul Abel reveals how you can spot it.
What did New Horizons discover at Pluto?
Paul Abel reveals what New Horizons has shown us about dwarf planet Pluto, which it flew by in 2015.
The transit of Venus from Selsey
The Sky at Night’s Paul Abel travelled to Selsey to watch the transit of Venus with Patrick Moore. But did the clouds part?
How to measure Jupiter's Great Red Spot
Gauge the size of Jupiter’s most famous giant raging storm with our 'how to' guide.
How to observe and record the storms of Jupiter
Watch and record the varied and changing features of Jupiter’s atmosphere.