Inside the November 2025 Issue

Ring Galaxies, the Rise of Smart Telescopes, and the Life Cycle of Stars

In the November 2025 issue of Sky & Telescope, come along on an observing journey through the life cycle of stars. We begin by seeking out stellar nurseries, traveling across the sky from one life stage to the next, until we land on some of the oldest stars visible in amateur scopes. Next, we’re aiming our telescopes for a bullseye, a bullseye galaxy that is. Join us as we explore these eye-catching ring galaxies. Whether you’re interested in stars or galaxies, there’s plenty to see and capture with your new smart scope. These new-fangled devices are quickly becoming a smart investment for outreach astronomers and beginners alike, so let’s find out how they came about in the last couple years. And finally, as dawn breaks over the observing field and we begin to pack up our scopes . . . just kidding, who would want to stop when there’s still so much to see? Break out those solar filters, and let’s catch some rays while we learn about the solar cycle and how astronomers are trying to predict what the Sun will do next.

FEATURE ARTICLES:

Ring Galaxies

A rare galactic breed adds splendor to the cosmos and insight into what can happen when galaxies collide.

By Ken Croswell

The Mountain of Stars

Meet three distinguished astronomers whose work was influenced by a majestic African landform.

By Susan Young

A Tour of the Life Cycle of Stars

Let’s explore key milestones in stars’ lives.

By Brian Ventrudo

Here Comes the Sun

The latest round of solar activity demonstrates that predicting our star’s behavior is still a challenge.

By Paul Sutter

Rise of the Smart Telescope

Telescopes are getting smarter and easier to use.

By Richard S. Wright, Jr.

Beyond the Printed Page:

The Spectacular Cloud

Read all about the Large Magellanic Cloud and what to look for when observing in the Southern Hemisphere.

Epic Moon

Pick up a copy of Tom Dobbins’ book from our online store.

Interstellar Comet

Learn more about Comet 3I/ATLAS as it buzzes through the solar system.

Uranus Moons

Observe Miranda, Ariel, Umbriel, Titania, and Oberon with the help of our online tool.

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:

Squaring Off with Pegasus

This landmark constellation has a confused asterism.

By Stephen James O’Meara

A Comet Bonanza Featuring an Interstellar Interloper

Comet 3I/ATLAS is an especially rare treat for backyard scopes.

By Bob King

Tumultuous Times on Jupiter

Several events portend a dynamic show for the current apparition.

By Thomas A. Dobbins

Way, Way North

These telescopic objects lie within 10° of Polaris, the famed North Star.

By Ken Hewitt-White

Table of Contents

See what else November’s issue has to offer.