SUNSET: 
Meet The Sun, Our Home Star
In this installment of Meet the Stars, we get to know the nearest one: our Sun. Its properties — like its stability — likely led to life on Earth.
Explore the Night with Bob King
How to Observe and Measure Naked-eye Sunspots
As Solar Cycle 25 ticks up, naked-eye sunspots are becoming more frequent. They're not only fun to observe, but with this simple method you can determine just how big they are. We also have news on a bright supernova!
How to Look at the Sun Safely
Our star is an amazing object to observe, whether by eye or with optical aid. These time-tested tips will let you see the solar disk worry-free.
A Sunrise Annular Solar Eclipse
Even if you're not in the path of annularity during the June 10th solar eclipse, get ready for a sunrise spectacle.
Stargazer's Corner: Adventures Under the Night Sky
95 Sunrises Along the Columbia Riverbank
Margaret Greenwood explores the changing location of sunrises throughout the year.
AAS's Advice for Safe Solar-Eclipse Viewing
Due to alarming reports of potentially unsafe eclipse viewers as eclipse day approaches, the American Astronomical Society has revised its safety advice.
Fun in the Sun: A White-Light Guide to Our Nearest Star
We examine the fascinating solar phenomena that anyone with a small scope and safe solar filter can see, whether the Sun's in eclipse or not.
How Astronomers Count Sunspots
A multi-year investigation revealed errors in our understanding of the Sun.
Observer's Guide to the H-alpha Sun
Want to see a star rock in real time? Observe the Sun in the crimson light of hydrogen alpha and watch it come alive.
Blank Sun? Faculae to the Rescue!
Fascinating faculae provide a way for anyone with a small telescope to track the ups and downs of the solar cycle — even when there are no sunspots.
Solar Filter Safety
Before an eclipse occurs the media often provides information on how to watch the event safely. Unfortunately, despite the best intentions, inaccurate or confusing information on safe observing techniques is often provided. Here are the facts.
Sketching Sunspots
Looking for a daytime astronomy project to pursue? Why not set your sights on our nearest star?
Why do you need a hydrogen-alpha filter to see solar prominences?
If I can see solar prominences with the naked eye during a total eclipse, why do I need a hydrogen-alpha filter to see them at other times? During a total eclipse the Moon completely blocks the Sun’s photosphere, or visible “surface,” allowing prominences (and the corona) to shine in all…
A Solar Observing Refresher Course
With modest equipment and attention to safety, you can enjoy observational astronomy throughout the day.
Observing the Sun Safely: Sunspots, Faculae, and Flares
The surface of the Sun is a dynamic, living place that can change unpredictably from day to day.