If you have questions about our website's paywall, we've got answers.

Why has Sky & Telescope put a paywall on the website?

Since 1941 Sky & Telescope has been delivering high-quality, curated content into the hands of anyone interested in the science and hobby of astronomy. That has included in-depth articles covering the science, history, and observational aspect of astronomy; star charts and other observing tools; reviews of equipment; and so much more. 

With the rise of the internet, we  began delivering free content online. We have now reached a point where, in order to continue producing the valuable information our readers treasure, we must introduce a paywall. We will still provide some content for free, but the number of articles you can access each month will be limited. However, if you subscribe, you’ll get access not only to all of our online content, but also to the digital (or print, if you choose) version of the magazine.

Read more about our decision here.

Will readers with an existing print or digital subscription have to pay extra to view the website?

Subscribers who already have an active digital or print+digital subscription have full access to our website. However, subscribers first need to register their account, then log in. (If you don't know which email address is attached to your account, please use the account lookup page.)

You'll only need to register your subscription account once — after that, you'll be set.

What do I do after I register? 

Once you've registered, all you need to do is log in for full access to the website.

Can I still view archived digital issues?

Our Nxtbook digital issue provider still offers a digital archive that goes back to 2010. You have access to issues for as far back as you have been subscribing: For example, if you started subscribing in January 2012, you will have access to all issues from January 2012 onward. To view the digital issue archive, visit the current digital issue here: https://www.skyandtelescope.org/digital. Then click this icon at top right:

Can I view my account details without registering for the website?

Yes, those pages are not behind the paywall and are freely accessible.

What should I do if I need to change the email address associated with my subscription account?

Email subscriber services at [email protected].

What if I'm a subscriber who has registered my account, but I'm still being blocked by the paywall?

Email customer support [email protected].