observational astronomy
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How to Tell If You Need a Telescope or Binoculars to See Cool Things in Space
When people think about astronomy — even amateur, backyard astronomy — the first piece of equipment that probably comes to mind is a telescope. And that makes sense, given that they’re what we see the pros using in observatories, and have become pop culture shorthand for a person (usually a child or young adult) who…
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Mars and Venus Are About to Make Out, Guys
The cosmos is in constant motion, and during the month of July, the movements of celestial bodies are an especially welcome treat for those on the ground. The two planets situated on either side of Earth — Mars and Venus — are poised to drift within a relatively close distance of each other, at least…
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When to Watch the Moon and Mars’ Superior Conjunction This Month
If your work involves staring at a screen all day, the sky is giving you ample reason to savour some much needed respite from the grind this month. On Thursday, an annular eclipse in parts of the far northern hemisphere will produce a “Ring of Fire,” when the moon crosses the sun’s facade, and pretty…
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Celebrate ‘International Dark Sky Week’ Because You Deserve Some Wonder
Anyone from a city tends to comment on the brightness of the stars when they find themselves in a rural area after dark. But, cliché or not, when you’re so used to living somewhere with light pollution, having the chance to experience the opposite of that can catch you off-guard.