How to Study the Night Sky
- 1). Buy a telescope. Although the sizes and prices of telescopes can greatly range, an affordable one can be found on auction sites, such as eBay or Amazon. One telescope in particular that is affordable and superb in quality is the Orion SkyQuest XT8 (See References).
- 2). Obtain a book on stars, planets and galaxies. Although you can buy a book at a bookstore, the library is an excellent resource for the cost-conscious gazer. National "Geographic's Backyard Guide to the Night Sky" (See References) provides charts, advice and hands-on tips to improve observation techniques.
- 3). Choose a location. When gazing at the night sky, it is necessary to find a place that is far away from any light pollution. Mountains and campsites are excellent locations that provide a clear and open night sky.
- 4). Select a time and date when the sky is clear. Check the local weather forecast and choose days that are most favorable for studying. Look into the moon patterns as well. This can be found in the "Farmer's Almanac," newspaper and online.
- 5). Choose a constellation, planet, or galaxy to view. Use your books as a resource. Looking into the telescope and try to find the object in the sky. Close your book and attempt to accurately locate and name the object. Use a piece of scrap paper and take notes on the coordinates and location as well.
- 6). Review what you have learned. Locate and name each constellation, planet or any other objects that you have studied from your previous sessions. See if you can accurately locate these whenever the sky is clear and the stars are visible.
