Exploring the December Night Sky: A Celestial Celebration for Families

December 6, 2023 / stanholtzleiter6724 / Leave a comment

As December unfolds, the night sky becomes a canvas of celestial wonders, inviting families to embark on a cosmic adventure. From dazzling constellations to bright planets and a meteor shower, the December night sky offers a celestial celebration for stargazers of all ages. In this family-friendly guide, we’ll delve into the splendors awaiting you and your loved ones as you gaze upwards during this magical time of the year.

Chapter 1: The Winter Constellations

December marks the official arrival of winter in the Northern Hemisphere, bringing with it a host of iconic winter constellations. These stellar patterns, rich in mythology and beauty, add a touch of enchantment to the crisp winter nights.

1. Orion, the Hunter: One of the most recognizable and prominent winter constellations is Orion, the Hunter. Known for its distinctive “belt” of three bright stars, Orion dominates the southwestern sky during December evenings. For families, spotting Orion is like finding an old friend in the night sky.

2. Taurus, the Bull: The constellation Taurus, with its prominent orange star Aldebaran and the stunning Pleiades star cluster, graces the eastern sky. These celestial gems are a delight to observe, especially for children fascinated by the stories of ancient mythology.

3. Canis Major and Canis Minor: Keep an eye out for the bright star Sirius in Canis Major, often referred to as the “Dog Star.” Sirius is the brightest star in our night sky and adds a brilliant twinkle to winter evenings. Canis Minor, a smaller constellation, features the star Procyon, another gem in December’s celestial display.

Chapter 2: The Geminid Meteor Shower: Nature’s Fireworks

December offers stargazers one of the most spectacular meteor showers of the year—the Geminids. Known for their bright and colorful meteors, the Geminids provide a celestial fireworks display that is perfect for families to enjoy.

The Geminid Meteor Shower: Peaking around mid-December, the Geminids are associated with the asteroid 3200 Phaethon. This shower is unique because it produces a high number of meteors, some of which can be quite bright and leave persistent trails. Find a dark location away from city lights, bundle up in warm clothes, and witness nature’s own light show.

Chapter 3: The Great Conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn

A celestial event of special significance occurs in December—the Great Conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn. These gas giants come together in the night sky, creating a mesmerizing celestial alignment that hasn’t been this close in centuries.

The Great Conjunction: Jupiter and Saturn appear in the southwestern sky after sunset, gradually drawing closer throughout December. On December 21, they reach their closest point, creating a stunning double planet effect. Even a small telescope will reveal the distinct rings of Saturn and the cloud bands of Jupiter.

For families, witnessing this rare event can be a memorable experience. Encourage your children to observe the changing positions of Jupiter’s moons and Saturn’s rings over the course of several nights. This celestial dance is a testament to the dynamic nature of our solar system.

Chapter 4: The Moon’s Phases and Observations

The Moon, our constant celestial companion, graces the December night sky with its changing phases. Observing the Moon’s craters, mountains, and lunar seas can be an engaging activity for families.

Moon Phases in December:

New Moon (December 4): The Moon is not visible, presenting an excellent opportunity for stargazers to observe faint celestial objects.
First Quarter (December 11): Half of the Moon is illuminated, revealing striking shadows along the lunar terminator.
Full Moon (December 19): The entire face of the Moon is lit, casting a silvery glow. Use binoculars or a telescope to explore lunar features in detail.
Last Quarter (December 27): Half of the Moon is again illuminated, but on the opposite side from the First Quarter phase.

Lunar Observations: Challenge your family to observe the Moon’s changing phases throughout December. Discuss the reasons behind these phases and explore the lunar features visible through binoculars or a telescope. Identify prominent craters like Tycho and Copernicus, enhancing your family’s lunar exploration.

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Chapter 5: Stargazing Tips for Families

To make the most of your December stargazing experiences, consider these practical tips for families:

Dress Warmly: December nights can be chilly, so dress in layers to stay warm. Blankets, gloves, and hats can make your stargazing sessions more comfortable.
Use Stellar Apps: Take advantage of stargazing apps that help identify constellations, stars, and planets. Some apps even include augmented reality features, allowing you to point your device at the sky and see information about celestial objects.
Telescope and Binoculars: While not mandatory, a small telescope or binoculars can enhance your stargazing experience. They allow for closer views of the Moon, planets, and even deep-sky objects.
Create Sky Stories: Weave your own stories about the constellations. Encourage your children to imagine shapes and characters in the stars, fostering creativity and a sense of wonder.
Celestial Calendar: Plan your stargazing sessions around celestial events like meteor showers, planetary conjunctions, and Moon phases. Mark these dates on a calendar, making astronomy an integral part of your family’s monthly activities.

Chapter 6: The Cosmic Connection in December

Beyond the scientific and observational aspects, stargazing in December provides families with a unique opportunity to connect with the cosmos on a deeper level:

Cultural Exploration: Explore the cultural significance of celestial objects. Share myths and stories associated with constellations from different cultures, fostering a sense of connection to human history.
Family Traditions: Establish stargazing traditions within your family. Whether it’s setting up a telescope in the backyard, creating celestial-themed art projects, or sharing hot cocoa under the stars, these traditions create lasting memories.
Wonder and Awe: Embrace the sense of wonder and awe that the night sky evokes. Instill in your children a curiosity about the universe, igniting a lifelong passion for exploration and discovery.
Reflection and Contemplation: Use the quiet moments under the stars for reflection and contemplation. Discuss the vastness of the cosmos and our place within it, fostering a sense of humility and interconnectedness.

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Conclusion: A Celestial Journey for the Whole Family

In conclusion, the December night sky unfolds as a celestial celebration, inviting families to partake in the wonders of the cosmos. Whether you’re observing the Geminid meteor shower, marveling at the Great Conjunction, or simply exploring the beauty of the Moon, the December sky offers a rich tapestry for families to explore together. So, bundle up, gather your loved ones, and let the December night sky be the backdrop for a celestial journey that will leave lasting impressions and spark a lifelong love for the wonders of the universe. Happy stargazing!

Preparing for a Night of Stargazing with Binoculars

November 26, 2023 / stanholtzleiter6724 / Leave a comment

Stargazing with binoculars offers an enchanting way to explore the wonders of the night sky. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced observer, the celestial realm beckons with its captivating array of stars, constellations, and celestial phenomena. To make the most of your stargazing experience with binoculars, it’s essential to prepare adequately and equip yourself with the knowledge and tools needed to embark on a celestial adventure. Here, we’ll delve into the essential steps and tips for preparing for a night of stargazing with binoculars, ensuring an enriching and memorable experience for the entire family.

Understanding the Basics of Binocular Stargazing

Before venturing into the night to explore the celestial wonders, it’s important to grasp the fundamental aspects of stargazing with binoculars. Binoculars offer a wide field of view and enhanced clarity, allowing observers to appreciate the intricate details of celestial objects. They are portable, easy to use, and provide an immersive viewing experience, making them an ideal choice for both beginners and seasoned astronomers.

Essential Tips for Stargazing with Binoculars

Choosing the Right Binoculars: Opt for a pair of binoculars with moderate magnification and aperture. A common recommendation is 7×50 binoculars, which provide a good balance of magnification and light-gathering capability. Larger binoculars may require a tripod to stabilize the view, while smaller ones may not offer sufficient light-gathering power[2].
Familiarize Yourself with the Night Sky: Before heading out for stargazing, acquaint yourself with the prominent constellations, stars, and celestial landmarks visible in the night sky. Sky maps, astronomy guides, and mobile apps can aid in identifying these celestial wonders, enhancing your stargazing experience[2].
Location and Timing: Choose a suitable location away from urban light pollution, such as a dark-sky site or a rural area with minimal artificial light. Additionally, consider the timing of your stargazing session, aiming for nights with clear skies and minimal atmospheric disturbance for optimal viewing conditions[2].
Prepare for Comfort: Stargazing can be a prolonged activity, so ensure you are adequately prepared for comfort. Dress warmly, especially during the cooler fall nights, and consider bringing along a comfortable chair or blanket for extended stargazing sessions. Additionally, a red flashlight can be useful for reading star charts and adjusting your eyes to the darkness without disrupting your night vision[2].

Resources for Stargazing with Binoculars

To further enhance your stargazing experience with binoculars, consider utilizing educational resources and guides tailored to celestial observation. Books such as “Exploring the Night Sky with Binoculars” by Patrick Moore offer valuable insights and practical tips for stargazing enthusiasts of all ages[5]. Additionally, online tutorials, astronomy vodcasts, and educational videos provide a wealth of information on stargazing techniques, celestial navigation, and the art of observing the night sky with binoculars[1][4].

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Embracing the Night Sky with Binoculars

As you prepare for a night of stargazing with binoculars, remember that the celestial realm holds a treasure trove of wonders waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re observing the intricate patterns of constellations, the ethereal glow of nebulae, or the distant allure of galaxies, stargazing with binoculars promises an enriching and awe-inspiring experience for the entire family. So, equip yourself with the right knowledge, choose a suitable location, and immerse yourself in the celestial splendor of the night sky with binoculars.

By following these essential tips and preparing adequately, you can embark on a captivating journey into the celestial realm, where the beauty of the cosmos unfolds before your eyes. Stargazing with binoculars offers an opportunity to connect with the wonders of the universe and create lasting memories with loved ones, making it a truly magical and rewarding experience for enthusiasts of all ages. So, grab your binoculars, venture outdoors, and prepare to be captivated by the celestial wonders that await you in the night sky.

Citations:
[1] https://youtube.com/watch?v=wAnAZz-ZPJ0&t=0
[2] https://earthsky.org/astronomy-essentials/top-tips-for-using-ordinary-binoculars-for-stargazing/
[3] https://www.davidchandler.com/shop/exploring-the-night-sky-with-binoculars/
[4] https://youtube.com/watch?v=68snWC9b8fE&t=0
[5] https://www.amazon.com/Exploring-Night-Binoculars-Patrick-Moore/dp/0521555388

How to get started in the hobby of Astronomy

August 30, 2023September 13, 2023 / stanholtzleiter6724 / Leave a comment

If you’re interested in getting started in the hobby of astronomy, there are a few things you should know. Here are some of the most common questions people have about getting started in astronomy, along with some answers and tips to help you get started.

What is Astronomy?

Astronomy is the study of celestial objects such as stars, planets, galaxies, and other phenomena that exist outside of Earth’s atmosphere. It is a field that has been around for centuries and has contributed significantly to our understanding of the universe.

Why Get into Astronomy?

There are many reasons why people get into astronomy. Here are some of the most common reasons:

It’s Fascinating: Astronomy is a fascinating field that can teach you a lot about the universe. It’s a field that is constantly evolving, and there is always something new to learn.
It’s Accessible: Astronomy is an accessible hobby that anyone can enjoy. You don’t need a lot of expensive equipment to get started, and you can observe celestial objects from your own backyard.
It’s Relaxing: Observing the night sky can be a relaxing and calming experience. It’s a great way to unwind after a long day and connect with the universe.
It’s Educational: Astronomy is an educational hobby that can teach you a lot about science, math, and physics. It’s a great way to learn about the universe and how it works.

What Equipment Do I Need?

One of the most common questions people have about getting started in astronomy is what equipment they need. Here are some of the basics:

Telescope: A telescope is an essential tool for observing celestial objects. You don’t need an expensive telescope to get started. A basic telescope will do.
Binoculars: Binoculars can be a great alternative to a telescope, especially if you’re just starting out. They’re less expensive and easier to use.
Star Chart: A star chart is a map of the night sky that can help you locate celestial objects. You can use a printed star chart or a smartphone app.
Red Flashlight: A red flashlight is essential for observing the night sky. It helps preserve your night vision.

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How Do I Learn the Night Sky?

Learning the night sky is essential for observing celestial objects. Here are some tips to help you learn the night sky:

Use a Star Chart: A star chart is a map of the night sky that can help you locate celestial objects. You can use a printed star chart or a smartphone app.
Attend Events: Attending astronomy events is a great way to learn more about astronomy and meet other people who share your interest. Many observatories and planetariums offer events and programs for the public.
Join a Club: Joining an astronomy club is a great way to meet other people who share your interest in astronomy. You can learn from other members and get advice on observing celestial objects.

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How Do I Observe Celestial Objects?

Observing celestial objects is a crucial part of astronomy. Here are some tips to help you observe celestial objects:

Choose the Right Time: The best time to observe celestial objects is when the sky is dark and clear. Avoid observing on cloudy or hazy nights.
Choose the Right Location: Choose a location that is away from city lights and has a clear view of the sky.
Use the Right Equipment: Use a telescope or binoculars to observe celestial objects. Use a star chart or smartphone app to help you locate objects.

Conclusion

Getting started in the hobby of astronomy is easy and accessible. With a few basic tools and some knowledge of the night sky, you can start observing celestial objects and learning about the universe. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced astronomer, there is always something new to discover in the night sky. So, grab a telescope, learn the night sky, and start exploring the universe today!

Contributors:
[1] https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/978-0-387-46322-3.pdf
[2] https://dr.lib.iastate.edu/bitstreams/88bc5204-cb41-4dee-b9ff-d672d1e99b07/download
[3] http://staff.ustc.edu.cn/~xuey/IAC/000_Introduction_to_Astronomy_and_Cosmology.pdf
[4] https://spacemath.gsfc.nasa.gov/SMBooks/AstrophotographyV1.pdf
[5] https://spark.iop.org/stories-space
[6] https://static1.squarespace.com/static/54e8acf6e4b003ce1bcf3c4d/t/5715d8caa3360ca1d47a7f5c/1461049555650/2002.pdf

Stargazing binoculars vs. telescope

May 24, 2023September 13, 2023 / stanholtzleiter6724 / Leave a comment

Hey there fellow stargazers! Are you ready to embark on an astronomical adventure? Today, we’re diving into the world of stargazing with a friendly showdown between binoculars and telescopes. Strap in and let’s explore the cosmos together!

When it comes to stargazing, having the right equipment can make all the difference. So, let’s start with some essential stargazing tips that will help you make the most of your celestial journey. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or just starting out, these tips will help you navigate the night sky with ease.

Now, let’s talk about the stars of the show – binoculars and telescopes. These two astronomy essentials are the key to unlocking the wonders of the universe. So, which one should you choose? Let’s dive deeper and find out.

First up, let’s take a peek through the lenses of binoculars. Ah, the portability of binoculars is simply unmatched. It’s like having a pair of magic glasses that you can carry with you wherever you go. Whether you’re planning a hike under the stars or a spontaneous stargazing escapade, binoculars are your trusty companions. Just grab them, adjust the focus, and let the adventure begin!

Speaking of adventure, let me share a personal anecdote. One clear night, armed with my binoculars, I embarked on a stargazing expedition in the remote countryside. Away from the city lights, I was mesmerized by the vastness of the night sky. With binoculars in hand, I marveled at the multitude of stars, constellations, and even caught a glimpse of a passing satellite. The wider field of view offered by binoculars allowed me to soak in the cosmic beauty, one constellation at a time.

But what about telescopes, you ask? Ah, telescopes are like a portal to another dimension. Their ability to bring distant celestial objects up close and personal is nothing short of magical. Imagine peering through the eyepiece of a telescope and discovering intricate details on the surface of the moon or witnessing the rings of Saturn in all their majestic glory. It’s like having a front-row seat to the greatest cosmic spectacle ever.

I remember the first time I used a telescope. It was a surreal experience as I observed Jupiter and its Galilean moons. The sheer power of the telescope’s magnification took my breath away. I felt like an explorer, venturing into uncharted territories of the night sky. It was a moment of pure awe and wonder that I’ll never forget.

Now, let’s touch upon an important topic – telescope buying. If you’re ready to take your stargazing to the next level, choosing the right telescope is crucial. Consider factors such as aperture size, focal length, and mount stability. A well-informed decision will ensure that you have a telescope that aligns with your astronomical ambitions.

Similarly, if you’re leaning towards the portable and user-friendly option of binoculars, it’s essential to read some honest binoculars reviews. Get insights from fellow stargazers who have tested different models and can guide you towards the perfect pair for your cosmic explorations.

As we wrap up our celestial journey, remember that stargazing is about more than just equipment. It’s about immersing yourself in the beauty of the night sky, forging a connection with the cosmos, and discovering the wonders that lie beyond our earthly existence. So, don’t hesitate to grab your binoculars or telescope, head out into the night, and embark on your own night sky exploration.

Happy stargazing, my friends! May your astronomical adventures be filled with awe, wonder, and countless moments of celestial magic. And don’t forget to share your stories and experiences in the comment section.

night sky thru binoculars

May 3, 2023 / stanholtzleiter6724 / Leave a comment

Exploring the night sky through binoculars can be an amazing experience, offering a unique and immersive view of the stars above. Unlike telescopes, which often provide a more zoomed-in view, binoculars offer a wider field of view, allowing you to take in more of the night sky at once.

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One of the joys of using binoculars for stargazing is the ability to see the constellations in more detail. With the increased magnification, you can easily spot individual stars and trace the shapes of the constellations across the sky. Binoculars can also reveal fainter stars that may not be visible to the naked eye, making it easier to appreciate the full beauty of the night sky.

Another benefit of using binoculars is the ability to observe celestial objects that may be difficult to locate with the naked eye. For example, the Andromeda Galaxy is visible to the naked eye as a faint smudge in the sky, but with binoculars, you can see the galaxy in more detail and appreciate its spiral arms and bright central core. Binoculars can also provide a stunning view of the moon, allowing you to see the craters and mountains in incredible detail.

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When using binoculars for stargazing, it’s important to find a dark location away from city lights. Light pollution can make it difficult to see fainter stars and celestial objects, so finding a dark spot with clear skies is key. It’s also important to use a tripod or stabilize the binoculars against a solid surface to prevent hand shake and ensure a stable viewing experience.

Overall, exploring the night sky through binoculars can be a rewarding and exciting experience for stargazers of all levels. With a pair of binoculars, you can appreciate the beauty of the night sky in a whole new way, discovering new constellations, stars, and celestial objects with every viewing.

Binoculars can be a great choice for amateur astronomy

April 26, 2023 / stanholtzleiter6724 / Leave a comment

Binoculars are a great choice for amateur astronomy for several reasons. They offer a wider field of view than most telescopes, allowing you to take in more of the night sky at once. This can be especially helpful for identifying constellations and navigating the sky. Additionally, binoculars are generally more portable and easier to set up than telescopes, making them a convenient option for backyard stargazing.

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Cost-effective: Binoculars are generally less expensive than telescopes, making them a great entry point for those who are new to astronomy or want to try it out before investing in more expensive equipment.
Portability: Binoculars are small and lightweight, making them easy to transport and set up. This makes them ideal for those who want to stargaze in different locations or travel to dark-sky sites.
Wide field of view: Binoculars provide a wider field of view than telescopes, making it easier to locate objects in the sky. They also allow you to see larger areas of the sky at once, making them ideal for observing star clusters, nebulae, and other deep-sky objects.
Easy to use: Binoculars are simple to use and require minimal setup, making them accessible to beginners. They also have a low learning curve, which means you can start observing right away.
Versatility: Binoculars can be used for a variety of other activities, such as bird watching, hiking, and other outdoor activities, making them a great all-around tool for nature enthusiasts.

Another benefit of binoculars is that they can offer a more immersive observing experience, giving you a sense of being “in” the night sky. This can be especially true when observing objects like the Milky Way or large star clusters, which can fill the entire field of view of a pair of binoculars.

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Ultimately, whether you choose binoculars or a telescope for your astronomy pursuits depends on your personal preferences and observing goals. However, if you’re just starting out or looking for a more portable and versatile observing option, binoculars can be a great choice.

Overall, binoculars are a great choice for amateur astronomy because they are affordable, portable, versatile, and easy to use. They can provide a rewarding viewing experience and can help beginners learn the basics of astronomy before investing in more advanced equipment.

BINOCULARS the underrated Tool for Backyard Astronomy

April 11, 2023 / stanholtzleiter6724 / Leave a comment

Why binoculars are the underrated tool for backyard astronomy,

Have you ever gazed up at the night sky, mesmerized by the twinkling stars and sparkling constellations? If so, you may be considering investing in a telescope for backyard astronomy. But have you considered the power of binoculars? These often-overlooked tools can be just as effective, if not more so, than larger telescopes. In this article, we’ll explore why binoculars deserve more credit in the world of amateur astronomy and share tips for using them to get the most out of your stargazing experience. So whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner in the world of stargazing, grab a pair of binoculars along with your star maps and observing charts, and let’s explore the night sky together.,

Binoculars vs telescopes: a comparison

While binoculars are often overlooked in the world of amateur astronomy, they can provide a unique observing experience compared to telescopes. Let’s take a closer look at some of the differences between binoculars and telescopes.

One advantage of binoculars is their portability. They are smaller and lighter than telescopes, making them easier to transport and set up in different locations. Additionally, binoculars provide a wider field of view than telescopes, allowing you to observe larger sections of the night sky at once.

On the other hand, telescopes offer greater magnification than binoculars, allowing you to see finer details of celestial objects. They are also better suited for observing planets and deep-sky objects like galaxies and nebulae.

Ultimately, choosing between binoculars and telescopes depends on personal preference and observing goals. While telescopes may be better for specific types of celestial objects, binoculars offer a different perspective and can be more versatile for general stargazing.

So, whether you choose binoculars, a telescope or both, remember that the most important thing is to enjoy the wonders of the night sky and keep exploring.,

TELESCOPES

February 9, 2022April 29, 2022 / stanholtzleiter6724 / Leave a comment

Reflecting Telescope Information

When viewing distant objects through the use of a telescope, the most important part of that telescope is called the objective. The objective is that component of the telescope that has the ability of gathering the light that is available. Obviously, the larger the objective the greater is the capacity of the telescope to gather light which in turn allows the viewed image to be better visualized.

In addition, there are two types of telescopes. One type of telescope is called the refractor telescope and the other is known as the reflecting telescope. The difference between these two telescopes is how the light is captured.

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Refracting and Reflecting Telescope

The refracting telescope obtains the light through its objective that is made out of glass. Basically, in this type of telescope, the glass lens is situated towards the front of the telescope. As the light is captured by the objective, it is then refracted or deflected through a lens which allows for the viewed image to be magnified. Examples of this type of telescopic equipment include scopes that are used on rifles, binoculars and spyglasses.

A reflecting telescope uses a mirror as its objective. This mirror is located towards the distal end of the telescope. In addition, the mirror has a concave shape. The curvature of the mirror allows for the midpoint of the mirror to be the focal point for all of the light that strikes each part of the surface of the bowl-like mirror. This reflection is then captured by the lens to view the item of interest.

Advantages Of The Reflecting Telescope

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There are several advantages to the use of a reflecting telescope. The major advantage is that distortion of what is being viewed is minimal. This is because, through the use of the mirror, the wavelengths are all reflected consistently. This advantage also leads to the reflecting telescope being less expensive than the refracting telescope.

In addition, through the use of the mirror as the objective, the support for this mirror can be all along the posterior portion of the telescope. This allows for the housing to be very large which will accommodate a larger mirror. Larger mirrors mean more light which results in increased visibility.

Disadvantages

However, as with anything else, there are a few disadvantages in the use of a reflecting telescope. One of those disadvantages is size. This is due to the fact that these types of telescopes can accommodate larger mirrors. This results in the telescope itself being larger which may prove to be an issue when storing or relocating the reflecting telescope.

In addition, because of the use of mirrors, there may need to be occasional adjustments made so that optimum light alignment is maintained.

The World Of Refractor Telescopes

Refractor telescopes are some of the oldest telescopes available, utilized at around the beginning of the 15th century and still around today the refractor telescope is quite possibly one of the oldest telescopes in use today. Made up of concave lenses that allow the light to be refracted and images to appear bright and larger than looking at it with the normal eye the refractor telescope can greatly aid in seeing stars, planets and moons.

These telescopes are made up of convex lenses and an eyepiece lens similar to binoculars, these refractors gather light and bend it in order to view objects at a distance, which is particularly useful when looking at stars and the night sky Refractor telescopes may seem complicated and are made up of lenses that are concave and refract the light.

The telescope come in a variety of versions; the Galilean telescope which is named after its creator was one of the first versions and was improved upon by Johannes Kepler with the Keplerian Telescope, which is a refractor telescope that utilized a convex eyepiece as opposed to a concave of the Galilean model. The decades and centuries since have observed newer inventions and different lenses, with the achromatic refractors invented in the mid 16th century and later with apochromatic refractors.

Pros and Cons of Refractor Telescopes

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I stated previously that refractor telescopes have been around a long time and with that comes a definite plus since there is a definitive ability to know what the pros and cons of the telescope. These telescopes have obviously come a long was since the 15th century yet the technology has increased to a point in which the refractors have improved yet the size of refractor telescopes pose a problem in the fact that the larger the refractor lens the more chance that it can have defects or begin to sag.

While technology continues to grow and there is no telling where refractor lenses in telescopes will go to in the future one thing for sure is that refractor telescopes have been around for centuries and thus show no decline in their use by many of astronomers. So no matter what telescope you choose to utilize to view the universe or neighborhood, you can not dismiss the value of the refractor telescope and the impact that its utilization has had on astronomy and the search of the skies.

The Wow Hobby

The Science Of Astronomy Really Is Fascinating

Tips For Getting Started In Astronomy

The Night Sky

Look Up In The Sky

The Best Sights for Astronomy

Moon Fever A NEW WAY TO VIEW THE MOON

Astronomy Binoculars A Great Alternative

Moon Gazing

Space The Final Frontier

Comets Visitors From Beyond

Shooting Stars

Our Neighbors in Space

Telescopes

Shooting Stars

October 11, 2021February 25, 2022 / stanholtzleiter6724 / Leave a comment

If you are a serious astronomy fanatic like a lot of us are, you can probably remember that one event in childhood that started you along this exciting hobby. It might have been that first time you looked through a telescope. But for many of us, it was that first time we saw a rain of fire from the sky that we eventually came to know as a meteoroid shower.

A view of a Meteor Shower and the Milky Way with a pine trees forest silhouette in the foreground. Night sky nature summer landscape. Perseid Meteor Shower observation.

At the time when you see the first one, it’s easy to remember the movie “war of the worlds” or some other fantastic image of aliens entering our atmosphere in droves to take over the planet. But with some guidance and explanation of what was going on, we eventually learned that these showers were not at all threatening or any kind of invasion. For the most part meteoroid showers are harmless, part of nature and very fun to watch.

So what are these strange lights in the sky? Are they aliens invading from Mars? Are the comets coming to start the next ice age? Or perhaps asteroids burning up as they enter the earths atmosphere. The answer to the above questions is no to the first and “yes and no” to the other two.

A meteoroid is actually a small piece of space rubble, usually dust or small rocks that come from either a comet or the break up of an asteroid in space and that eventually plummets toward the earth. We say “toward the earth” because the lights you see are the friction of the atmosphere burning up those small space tidbits and creating a spectacular show for all of us as they do so. A particularly exciting moment to witness is when a meteoroid breaks up or explodes on entry. A meteoroid that explodes is called bolides.

There are some interesting details about the life of a meteoroid that make the viewing of shooting stars even more fun. To be seen, a meteoroid only needs to weigh as little as a millionth of a gram. But the thing that makes them so spectacular to see is the tremendous speeds they reach as they enter the atmosphere. Before burning up, a meteoroid will reach between 11 and 74 kilometers per second which is 100 times faster than a speeding bullet.

We tend to think of seeing a shooting star as a freak event and we associate it with superstition (hence, wish on a lucky star). But there are actually thousands of them every year so it really isn’t that rare to see one. In fact, scientists tell us that over 200,000 tons of space matter enters the atmosphere each year and burns up on entry.

Comets are a big source of meteoroids because of the nature of those long tails. A large amount of dust, ice and other space debris gets caught up in a comet’s tail as it moves toward the sun. Then as the comet moves away from the sun in its orbit, tons of this matter is thrown off into space to disperse. As the Earth moves in its routine orbit around the sun, it often crosses through clouds of this discarded matter which becomes one of those “meteor showers” that are so popular for viewing.

These showers of shooting stars are pretty easy for astronomers to predict so you can get into position to see the excitement at just the right time of night and be looking at the right area of the night sky. Usually the astronomy magazine or site will give you a general time and location to be ready to look when the meteoroids start to fall.

Meteor Shower and the Milky Way with old ruin on foreground

Now keep in mind, this is a phenomenon of nature, so it may not observe the time table exactly. Also note that there is a notation system for where the meteoroid shower will occur based on what constellation is its backdrop. The section of the sky to focus on for the show is called the “radiant” because that is where the entering meteoroids begin to glow or radiate. The radiant is named for the constellation it is nearest too. So if the meteor shower is going to occur in the constellation of Leo, then its radiant will be called Leonid. This will help you decipher the listing of asteroid showers in the publications.

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Comets Visitors From Beyond

Shooting Stars

Useful Information

BOOKS INTRODUCING ASTRONOMY

Night Sky – A Field Guide to the Constellations

Patrick Moore’s Guide to Astronomy

Patrick Moore’s Pocket Guide to the Stars and Planets

Guide to the Stars

Comets Visitors From Beyond

September 27, 2021February 24, 2022 / stanholtzleiter6724 / Leave a comment

The one thing we love the most in the world of astronomy is a good mystery. And if there was ever a mysterious and yet very powerful force of nature that we witness in the night skies, it is the coming of the mighty comet.

A bright comet with large dust and gas trails as the comets orbit brings it close to the Sun. Illustration.

The arrival of a comet within view of Earth is an event of international importance. Witness the huge media attention that the Haley or Hale-Bopp have had when they have come within view The sight of these amazing space objects is simultaneously frightening and awe inspiring.

Above all, it is during these comet viewings that the astronomer comes out in all of us. But what is a comet? Where did it come from? And how does it get that magnificent tail?

We should never confuse comets with asteroids. Asteroids are small space rocks that come from an asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. While still quite stunning to see, they pale in comparison to the arrival of a comet. Asteroids also have received considerable study by the scientific community.

meteorite from outer space, falling toward planet Earth, dramatic science fiction scene

Not as much is known about comets. As a rule, comets are considerably larger than asteroids. The composition of a comet is a mixture of nebulous, gasses, ice, dust and space debris. One scientist called the composition of a comet as similar to a “dirty snowball” because the composition is so diverse and changeable. The center or nucleus of a comet is usually quiet solid but the “snowball” materials often create a “cloud” around that nucleus that can become quite large and that extends at great lengths behind the comet as it moves through space. That trailing plume is what makes up the comet’s magnificent tail that makes it so exciting to watch when a comet comes within view of Earth.

The origins of comets is similarly mysterious. There are a number of theories about where they come from but it is clear that they originate from outside our solar system, somewhere in deep space. Some have speculated they are fragments left over from the organization of planets that get loose from whatever gravitational pull and are sent flying across space to eventually get caught up in the gravity of our sun bringing them into our solar system.

Another theory is that they come from a gaseous cloud called the Oort cloud which is cooling out there after the organization of the sun. As this space debris cools, it gets organized into one body which then gathers sufficient mass to be attracted into the gravity of our solar system turning into a fast moving comet plummeting toward our sun. However, because of the strong gravitational orbits of the many planets in our solar system, the comet does not always immediately collide with the sun and often takes on an orbit of its own.

The life expectancy of comets varies widely. Scientists refer to a comet that is expected to burn out or impact the sun within two hundred years as a short period comet whereas a long period comet has a life expectancy of over two hundred years. That may seem long to us as earth dwellers but in terms of stars and planets, this is a very short life as a space object indeed.

Scientists across the globe have put together some pretty impressive probes to learn more about comets to aid our understanding of these visitors from beyond. In 1985, for example, the United States put a probe into the path of the comet Giacobini-Zinner which passed through the comets tail gathering tremendous scientific knowledge about comets. Then in 1986, an international collation of scientists were able to launch a probe that was able to fly close to Haley’s comet as it passed near Earth and continue the research.

While science fiction writers and tabloid newspapers like to alarm us with the possibility of a comet impacting the earth, scientists who understand the orbits of comets and what changes their paths tell us this is unlikely. That is good because some comets reach sizes that are as big as a planet so that impact would be devastating. For now, we can enjoy the fun of seeing comets make their rare visits to our night sky and marvel at the spectacular shows that these visitors from beyond put on when they are visible in the cosmos.