A Beginners Guide to Stargazing

Stargazing is one of the most challenging hobbies to get started in. So many people begin stargazing by going out and buying the most accessible telescope plant it in their backyards and then give up after not being able to find anything with what they have. To begin stargazing the practical approach would be to skip the telescope and binoculars and just head out with your eyes, a good star atlas, and a flashlight. With these three items and some basics skills anyone can learn to stargaze and eventually move onto using a telescope and discovering even more gems in the sky.

Every beginning stargazer is going to need a few supplies though. First, make sure you are dressed for the weather, even summertime stargazing requires some layers. Look in stores for a good star atlas that gives you a view of the entire sky exactly the way you would view it from the ground. A flashlight is also necessary to help you read any atlas or books you might bring along.

When choosing a place to stargaze take yourself as far away from every source of artificial light. Also look for a spot that does not have any large obstructions on the horizon.

Here are a few things to help you get started.

Night Signposts