Deep Sky Objects

Deep sky objects, or DSO, is a term that is used by amateur astronomers. Deep sky objects and deep space objects are two different terms that relate to two different things, and the terms are not interchangeable. Deep sky objects are objects outside of our solar system that...

Important Questions Before Buying a Telescope

Galileo probably knew more about telescopes that you do, but if you have decided to invest in a telescope to enhance your stargazing, then you need to know just a little bit about telescopes before you buy one. Here are some important questions that you need to ask yourself...

The SUN

There is nothing remarkable about our sun in the scheme of things. It is very similar to millions of other stars (and our sun is a star) in the universe. You might even call our sun an "average" star. The energy source for our sun is nuclear fusion. If the total energy output...

Binoculars for Astronomy

All amateur astronomers don't own telescopes. Many use binoculars for observing the wonders of the sky. Even those little toy binoculars that cost $1.99 will make distant objects appear closer, but they aren't powerful enough to use for astronomical observation. If you are going...

Astronomy for Kids

Kids are like thirsty little sponges that soak up information. Their minds are clear, and they don't suffer from any preconceived notions like adults. Teaching astronomy to kids can be one of the most rewarding tasks that a teacher or a parent ever undertakes. One of the most...

The Stars

Our sun is a star. It is one of the billions of stars in the Milky Way Galaxy. On a clear night, when you look up at the sky, you can see thousands of stars with your naked eye. If you have a pair of binoculars or a telescope, you can see more stars than you could ever hope to...

Different Types of Telescopes

Basically, there are three types of telescopes that are available for amateur astrologers to purchase: Refractors that use a lens that is the primary device for gathering light. Reflectors that use a mirror that is the primary device for gathering light. Compound telescopes that...

Our Solar System

Our solar system consists of our sun, eight planets, the 166 known moons that orbit these eight planets, 3 dwarf planets and the four known moons that orbit them. Our solar system also includes billions of other small bodies such as asteroids, Kuiper belt objects, comets, meteoroids,...

Some of the most famous meteorites

Meteorites might all be considered somewhat "famous" in that they are extraterrestrial bodies that have fallen to earth. Most of the time, meteors burn up once they come into contact with the earth's atmosphere; but sometimes these meteors reach earth still somewhat intact, and...