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PRACTICAL STARGAZING
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Astronomy is one of those very rare sciences in which you do not have to be a professional to participate. Even without binoculars or a telescope, an amateur astronomer can make a contribution - by observing meteors, for example. In fact, there is a long tradition of observing the sky for practical reasons, such as navigation, timekeeping, or calendar making. To get started in astronomy, it helps to learn your way around the sky and to be able to recognize the stars of different seasons. A pair of binoculars will reveal more and even all amateurs to make valuable observations such as monitoring variable stars. With a telescope, the sky literally is the limit. Some amateur telescopes today are more sophisticated than many of those used by professionals just a few years back!
We can think of planet Earth as a giant spaceship speeding through the cosmos. Unfortunately, this spaceship is not an ideal platform for observing the universe. It spins all the time, so everything seems to move across the sky in the opposite direction - nothing stays in the same place. The solid Earth beneath us also blocks out our view. Europeans never see the Southern Cross, while the star Polaris is always hidden from Australians. What is visible in the sky depends on the time and a person's location. Conversely, observers can use what is visible in the sky to reveal time and location.
Have you ever want to study the stars? Well here's your chance! Below is everything you need to get started and what to look for, so check out what's inside and be on your way...
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WHAT'S INSIDE
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Getting Started to Stargaze |
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Check here to find out everything you need to get started stargazing. This section includes: Star Maps and Constellations. So you can get the right maps (for the current season and hemisphere that you are in) and find out constellation names easily!
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Choosing a Telescope |
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Are you looking for a new telescope or buying one for the first time? This section tells you the differences between refracting, reflecting, and catadioptric telescopes and advises you which one best fits your needs and price range!
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Cleaning Optics |
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Tips on maintaining your personal telescope.
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Daytime Astronomy |
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Learn how you can study the stars (the Sun included) during the daytime.
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Photographing |
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Learn how you can catch that awesome site on film in this section. It includes everything you need to know on how to photograph the heavens.
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STARGAZING