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Lunar Observing and Astrophotography, plus Weird Moons
In the February 2026 issue of Sky & Telescope, we’re exploring our Moon as well as other solar system satellites. Learn to photograph lunar craters in HD and find out the origins of the odd moons around Jupiter and Saturn. Then, play galaxy hopscotch in the Winter Hexagon before heading down under for some drinks at the Large Magellanic Cloud’s bar. Finally, we join PLATO in searching for Earth’s doppelgangers.
FEATURE ARTICLES:
The giant planets host swarms of odd satellites, captured in the solar system’s early days.
By Javier Barbuzano
Galaxy-Hopping in the Winter Hexagon
Hunt for faint fuzzies in Orion, Gemini, and more.
By Andy Edelen
Here’s how you can capture detailed images of lunar features.
By Sean Walker
If Earth-like planets orbiting Sun-like stars are plentiful, then the European space mission PLATO will find them.
By Govert Schilling
A Slice of Nightlife at the LMC’s Bar
This region of the Large Magellanic Cloud is unlike anything else in the night sky – north or south.
By Susan Young
Beyond the Printed Page:
Check out José Ramón Torres’s free TriAtlas C charts.
Measure lunar craters with this detailed 3D model.
Watch these incredible time-lapse astrophotography videos.
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:
The Hyades: Rainmakers to Snow Maiden
Come visit these teary-eyed maidens hidden away in Taurus.
By Stephen James O’Meara
This month features a pair of remarkable lunar occultations.
By Bob King
Tilted craters hint at the topography that existed prior to their formation.
By Charles A. Wood
Bringing the Night Sky to Life
Time lapses turn your still photos into cinematic masterpieces.
By Tony Puerzer
Table of Contents
See what else February’s issue has to offer.
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