Astronomy: Somewhere Out There!
I love looking up into the night sky. I always have.
It seems that there is so much going on in our universe.
Years ago I took an astronomy class which has made it even more enjoyable to ponder my star gazing experiences. Clear? I often reflect on the fact that our ancestors used to record their star gazing on the walls of caves. A far cry from being able to login to the internet & better understand that constellation million of miles away.
Here are a few simple tips to use when star gazing. I hope that as you use them you too will enjoy the views right above your head.
a) Put yourself in the best possible viewing position. You should be easily able to find suitable sites for night viewing within thirty minutes of most cities.
b) Contact your local astronomy club for many more professional assistance.
c) Do a little homework. You should do some research time learning what objects you can expect to see on that particular day from that particular spot. Great websites that assist in this regard are http://nasa.gov , http://astronomy.com & http://www.yesastronomy.com
d) Once star gazing “fever” hooks you, you will want to get a nice telescope, a journal, a camera, a second telescope & so on. Be prepared. This hobby is quite addictive.
Astronomy has to be one of the most mind expanding subjects to0 study. The vastness & organization of stars, planets & constellations are never ending source of wonder for young & old alike.
Every time I look into the night skies & watch the stars I cant hep but be fascinated by the fact that our ancestors looked up & saw what we see today & that our descendants will see similar miracles tomorrow. It’s great fun to be easily able to find the Big Dipper & Little Dipper & recognize the effect that these important configurations have played in history.
Pedro Estrella is the webmaster for http://www.yesastronomy.com & an avid astronomy buff.
Harald Anderson