Astronomy Basics
Astronomy is the study of everything in the Universe beyond Earth's atmosphere. That includes objects we can see with our naked eyes, like the Moon, planets, and stars. It also includes objects we can only see with telescopes or binoculars, like distant galaxies and nebulae. But it doesn’t take much skill or equipment to get started with stargazing or amateur astronomy, and you can do it almost anywhere. Here you'll learn all the essential things about astronomy that will help you to pave the way into the world of stargazing.
What Planet Is Retrograde Right Now (October 2026)? Retrograde Motion Explained
Learn what retrograde means, see which planets are retrograde right now, and get an easy way to observe retrograde loops.
Supermoons & Micromoons
What are supermoons and micromoons? Compare their sizes, learn interesting facts, and find all Full supermoon dates from 2026 to 2030.
Atmospheric Refraction: 5 Surprising Ways It Changes What We See
Find out how atmospheric refraction flattens the Sun and Moon, shifts sunrise and sunset times, and creates the mysterious green flash near the horizon.
Planetary Oppositions 2026: Next Up Is Uranus
The best time to view most planets is at opposition. Find out what it means and when to see the upcoming oppositions.
Mercury & Venus Greatest Elongations in 2026–2027: Best Morning and Evening Views
What is elongation, and what does it have to do with the planets’ visibility in the sky? Get familiar with the concept of elongation and learn how to choose the perfect time to observe the planets!
Spring and Autumn Equinox in Pictures – Science, Meaning & Next Events
Equinox meaning explained in pictures: see how spring and autumn equinoxes work, why day and night aren’t exactly equal, and how seasons change.
Vernal Equinox 2027: When Is the First Day of Spring 2027?
When does spring begin in 2027? Why aren’t day and night truly equal on the vernal equinox? And why doesn’t it always fall on the same date? Find out here!
What Is an Equinox: Definition & Next Equinox Dates 2027
Get to know equinoxes! Find out when the next equinox will be in 2027, why day and night are nearly equal at an equinox, and how equinoxes mark the change of seasons.
First Day of Autumn 2027 in the Southern Hemisphere: Autumn Equinox Date & Time
When does autumn begin in 2027? Find the fall equinox date and time, learn why day and night aren’t truly equal, and discover what happens in the sky.
Astronomy Trivia: Equinox and Solstice – What's the Difference?
Only 10% of people can get the top score in this tricky quiz about equinoxes and solstices! 🌝🌏Test your knowledge and and see whether you can join them.