Where to start?

Here are 10 astronomy tips for you!

1. Start with Your Eyes and Binoculars

You don’t need an expensive telescope to begin exploring the night sky. Start with your naked eye to learn constellations and bright celestial objects. Binoculars (7x50 or 10x50) are also a great way to see more detail before investing in a telescope.

2. Learn the Night Sky

Familiarize yourself with major constellations and bright stars. Use a star chart or a mobile app like Stellarium or SkySafari to help you navigate the sky. The best time to observe is on a clear night away from city lights.

3. Find a Dark Sky Location

Light pollution affects visibility, so try to observe from a dark-sky location. Check light pollution maps or visit local astronomy clubs' observing sites. The darker the sky, the more you’ll see.

4. Use Red Light to Preserve Night Vision

Bright white lights ruin night vision. Use a red flashlight or cover your flashlight with red cellophane to help your eyes adjust to the darkness while reading star charts.

5. Join an Astronomy Club

Clubs like Northwest Suburban Astronomers (NSA) host star parties and meetings where you can learn from experienced astronomers and try out different telescopes before buying one.

6. Understand Telescope Basics Before Buying

If you're ready for a telescope, research different types:

  • Refractors – Good for planets and the Moon, with clear and sharp views.

  • Reflectors – Best for deep-sky objects like galaxies and nebulae.

  • Dobsonian Telescopes – Affordable and great for beginners.

7. Observe Under the Best Conditions

  • Avoid nights with a bright Moon when looking for faint objects.

  • Check weather apps for clear skies before heading out.

  • Planets, the Moon, and bright star clusters are best viewed even from light-polluted areas.

8. Learn Star Party Etiquette

If you attend a star party:

  • Arrive before dark to set up.

  • Plan to park your car appropriately so when you leave, your headlights are pointing AWAY from observers.

  • Bring only yourself and people you can trust. Having unattended children or pets running around can be dangerous.

  • Use dim red lights only, NO white lights. This is to preserve your night vision as well as observers vision.

  • No lasers

  • No open flames

  • Dress warmly, as nights can get cold.

9. Stay Updated on Celestial Events

Keep track of events like meteor showers, eclipses, and planetary alignments. Websites like NASA, Sky & Telescope, and the NSA Club website provide event calendars and observing guides.

10. Have Fun and Be Patient

Astronomy is a skill that improves with time. Take it slow, enjoy the experience, and keep looking up!

For more resources and upcoming star parties, visit NSAClub.org.