SUNSET: 
Why We Look Up with Jennifer Willis
Waiting for the Blaze Star
Some celestial events are sure things; it's just a question of when. We're still waiting for T Corona Borealis to go nova — any month now.
When Astronomy Is In Your Blood
A glimpse of a stellar cluster ties generations together.
A New Year of Star-Camping
For 2026, I want to be more myself — less stress and rumination, more centeredness and joy — and that’s going to necessitate a lot more time beneath the stars.
Stargazing Opportunities Lost and Found
Observing obstacles plague all amateur astronomers, but when the chance arises, we can still embrace unanticipated wonder.
Get Thee to a Dark Sky Site!
The experience of truly dark skies is one that no one should miss.
Why We Look Up: Simply Stargazing
Whether you end up catching a falling star or not, meteor shower vigils offer time with the stars.
Honoring the Women of Astronomy
Even today, the names of women in astronomy are not as well known as they should be.
Building Community, One Star Party at a Time
Want to build and expand your astronomy community? Go hyperlocal.
Vicarious Astronomy with Dad
A one-on-one connection with a friend under clearer skies represents vicarious astronomy at its best. For Jennifer Willis, that means FaceTime calls with her dad.
Galaxy Season: The Season of Wonder
During this season — the one in which galaxies are most abundant in the sky — galactic pursuits can bring us to a state of wonder.
Why We Look Up with Jennifer Willis
Step Out Into Darkness
What’s an amateur astronomer supposed to do if she’s afraid of the dark? Be brave!
The Nights of Our Lives
The stars help us mark the time, but sometimes they also create a convergence of our past, present, and future selves.
Modest Expectations Give Rise to Delight
If we amateur astronomers lean into discovery, there's no limit to the breadth of wonder under a wide-open sky.
Reclaiming the Beginner’s Mind of Stargazing
Sometimes the obstacles in our path — such as clouds and light pollution — steer us not away from our goals but on a more meaningful path toward them.
Enroll in the School of Stars
Amateur astronomers are all life-long learners — and this "back to school" time of year provides just the right motivation.
The Fiery Heart of Antares
A long-ago incident forged a connection with Antares, the topaz-colored star at the heart of the Scorpion.
Why We Look Up: Anticipation
The wait until nightfall can make observing cosmic wonders all the sweeter.
The Broadest Horizon
Many people travel to broaden their horizons; there's no broader horizon than the cosmos.
Awe in the Shadow of a Partial Eclipse
A partial eclipse — Eclipse Lite, if you will — can also offer a sense of wonder, albeit on a smaller scale than totality.
Why We Look Up with Jennifer Willis
My Stellar Love Affair with the Pleiades
When we observe the little wonders of the sky, we can form deep personal connections.
