SUNSET: 
Explore the Night with Bob King
Tell Time with the Big Dipper; See Ceres Transit a Spiral Galaxy
Phone battery dead? Learn how to tell time with the Big Dipper. Also, don't miss a remarkable transit of Ceres in front of the bright spiral galaxy M100.
Native American Full Moon Names for 2023
Native American tribes each had their own full Moon names — we introduce the most commonly used ones and the traditions behind them.
Getting Started with Your New Telescope
How to start out right with a new telescope — a guide to what you need to know, how to set it up, and things you can start finding with it in tonight's sky.
What Is the Ecliptic?
The ecliptic, simply put, is the plane of Earth’s orbit around the Sun. It extends beyond that to include the seven other planets.
See the Sun from Other Stars
We journey to distant suns to look back at our solar system and see its place among the stars.
Stargazing Forecast: Will You Have Clear Skies Tonight?
These websites and apps can help you forecast the astronomical observing conditions for your next night out.
The Big Dipper: Hop to Spring's Sky Sights
The Big Dipper is one of the most familiar sights in the Northern Hemisphere’s night skies. You can use its stars to locate other fun targets.
A Quick Tour of Orion, the Hunter
The evening sky this week presents a near perfect opportunity to explore winter's marquee constellation, Orion, with binoculars or a small telescope.
Nine Ways To Get Your Child Into Astronomy Before Summer Ends
There's still time before school (and early bedtimes) start up again — take advantage of balmy evenings to spark an interest in astronomy.
Right Ascension & Declination: Celestial Coordinates for Beginners
Once you hold the golden keys of right ascension and declination, finding your way around the sky is almost as easy as finding your way around town.
Choosing Your Astronomy Equipment
Astronomy for Beginners: How to Get Started in Backyard Astronomy
Astronomy doesn't deserve its reputation as a tough, expensive hobby. You just need to begin with the right advice.
Astronomy Books: Wrapping Up 2017
Wondering what to read next? Looking for a gift for the amateur astronomer in your life? Check out these new astronomy books!
Solar Eclipse Activities for Kids and Families
Enrich the eclipse experience — especially the long, partial phases — with solar eclipse activities for the young and young at heart.
Stargazing Simplified: What to See in the Night Sky
Learn some of the classic stargazing sights that can be best viewed through a smaller telescope.
Learn Constellations with a Planisphere
How do you find out what stars are visible tonight? With a planisphere or "star wheel." It's easy!
How to Use a Star Chart with a Telescope
Here's what you need to know to navigate the heavens with a telescope and star atlas.
"Star Deck": It's All in the Cards
Here's a great free download that uses a deck of playing cards to introduce you to the night's sky's constellations in a fun, entertaining way.
Star Charts: A Vital Resource for Learning the Night Sky
Our Constellation Basics webinar provides background information about the major winter constellations. Here are some accompanying online resources.
Asterisms for Winter Nights
Asterisms appeal to our playful side but also serve as key waypoints in the sky for identifying fainter stars and constellations.
Choosing Your Astronomy Equipment
Binoculars for Astronomy: Ultimate Guide to Selecting and Buying
Ordinary binoculars are your ideal "first telescope." And they're so versatile that even seasoned stargazers find them indispensable.