Advice
Expert advice to help you get the most out of stargazing, from DIY projects to practical astronomy tips.
How to see comet 24P/Schaumasse
Comet 24P/Schaumasse is well placed during February 2026, but fading
Six-planet parade, February 2026. How to see it
Another planet parade is coming up. How excited should we be?
Jupiter is amazing, and there's a chance to catch Mercury. Your guide to the planets, February 2026
How to see the planets in the sky this month.
Masterclass: Capturing Jupiter on camera
Join our online spring Masterclass with Damian Peach, world-renowned astrophotographer and lecturer at 7pm on 23 May 2024.
Save 20% when you buy all three as a series booking
February 2026 is your best chance to see Mercury. Here's how to make the most of the planet
There's a good chance to spot the closest planet to the Sun this month
What's new?
Lunar occultations in astronomy
Catch the Solar System in motion by observing an occultation as the Moon appears to pass in front of stars and planets.
A guide to Regulus, the brightest star in Leo
Find out how to observe one of the brightest stars in the spring sky.
Tonight we'll see the full Moon swallow a bright star. Here's how to know if you're in the right spot to see it
If you were out observing the Snow Moon over the past weekend, you likely saw it close to Jupiter, which is currently one of the brightest objects in the night sky. Tonight, 2 February, there's a chance to see the full Moon close to the brightest star in the constellation Leo. And, if you're in the right part of the world, you'll get to see the Moon pass in front of this bright star, temporarily hiding it from view. Get weekly stargazing updates and Moon phases delivered directly to your email inbox by signing up to the BBC Sky at
Tonight's Snow Moon is a last chance to see a high Moon of winter. Here are 6 reasons to catch it
That bright star near tonight's Snow Moon? That's Jupiter, currently the best planet to see in the sky
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.
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.
Best telescopes for kids
Buying a telescope for children can be a tricky task. We've tested some of the best telescopes for kids and young people getting started in astronomy.
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.
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.
Make a Moon phase calculator and calendar
Make a mechanical instrument that calculates and displays the phase of the Moon for any chosen day of the year.
How to build a rolling telescope dolly
Complete our astronomy DIY project to wheel your telescope setup in and out of storage without delay.
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
Skills
Expert advice on a range of practical astronomy techniques, from setting up your telescope to combatting light pollution.
6 ways to predict an aurora display in your area
Top tips an online resources for taking the guesswork out of catching the amazing natural spectacle.
Best planets to see in January
Find out which planets you can see in the night sky in January.
Want to photograph the Moon with your smartphone camera, but can't quite manage it? Here's how to do it
Tips and tricks to help you succeed in lunar astrophotography using a smartphone.