The Latest on Betelgeuse, Plus a Bright Supernova and New Comet Iwamoto
The sky provides. This winter, the fading of Betelgeuse caught us all by surprise. Now, as January wraps up, we can add a new comet discovery and a supernova bright enough to see in a 6-inch telescope to an ever-growing list of seasonal sky wonders.
See Ancient “North Stars" Eclipse Each Other
The ancient pole star known as Thuban turns out to be an eclipsing binary. If you're up for a challenge, you can see the eclipses for yourself.
Comets to Catch in 2020
Here's the lowdown on which comets will brighten our skies in 2020.
A Selection of Observing Resources for Getting Started in Astronomy
Here are some great books, star charts, and other observing accessories to help you get the most out of your new telescope.
Solar and Lunar Eclipses in 2020
Six eclipses occur in 2020, with one total and one annular solar eclipse in the mix. But the four lunar eclipses will be disappointing brushes through the fringe of Earth's shadow.
January 2020: Mid-winter Wonders
New Year's resolution: Do more stargazing! (Hint: Get an easy and entertaining head start by downloading this month's Sky Tour podcast for a guided tour of the night sky.)
High Hopes for the 2020 Quadrantid Meteor Shower
The annual Quadrantid meteor shower is expected to put on a great early morning show this weekend.
Betelgeuse is Dimming . . . Why?
The bright star Betelgeuse has faded to a historic low as astronomers try to figure out why.
The Best Meteor Showers in 2020
Sky & Telescope predicts that the three best meteor showers — the Quadrantids (peaking on January 4th!), Perseids and Geminids — will all have strong showings this year.
What to See with Your New Telescope During 2019 Holidays
Maybe you just got a shiny new telescope to call your own. Congratulations — you could be on your way to discovering many amazing, far, deep things in the night sky.
2020 Total Solar Eclipse: Update from Patagonia
Check out the viewing site and accommodations in Argentina's lush Lake District for Sky & Telescope's expedition to witness the 2020 total solar eclipse on December 14, 2020.
Geminids and the Moon Duke it Out
Don't let light from the gibbous Moon discourage you from enjoying the annual Geminid meteor show on the peak night, December 13-14.
Meteor Shower Was a Dud, But Showing Up Was Half the Fun
The Alpha Monocerotids happened as predicted, even if not quite as we expected.
Intense Meteor Storm Expected from the Alpha Monocerotids
Circle the date November 21st on your calendar, when a brief but potentially spectacular meteor storm might light up the night.
Capturing the Transit of Mercury
Though clouds blocked the sky for many yesterday, those with a clear view had the chance to see tiny Mercury cross the face of the Sun.
Don't Miss Monday's Rare Transit of Mercury
On Monday, November 11th, Mercury will pass directly in front of the Sun and look a tiny black dot silhouetted against the brilliant solar disk. The event, called a transit, occurs approximately 13 times a century.
Citizen Science with the Transit of Mercury
If you're planning on watching the November 11th transit of Mercury, try kicking it up a notch — watch with a friend and calculate the distance between Earth and the Sun!
"Potentially Hazardous" Asteroid Is Headed For Your Telescope
A potentially hazardous asteroid makes a flyby of Earth this Friday, offering amateurs with modest telescopes a chance to ride along.
Crack Your Crescent Moon Record
Calling all crescent lovers! Here's a chance to set a new personal record by seeing one of the oldest moons ever.
Autumn Comets, Mira's Eye & The Orionid Meteor Shower
Four comets, a famous variable star, and sprinkles of dust from Halley's Comet are highlights of the October sky.
