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.

Lunar eclipse

Lunar Eclipses: Types, Images & How Often Does a Lunar Eclipse Happen?

~7 min
Astronomical News

What causes lunar eclipses? How often do they happen? When is the next one? Get answers to these and other questions from our article.

7 things about the March equinox

Equinox in Pictures: 7 Things to Know about March Equinox

Infographics

Discover the March Equinox in a nutshell with our handy infographic! We've compiled some fascinating facts about this astronomical event just for you. 🌸🔍

Spring equinox

Spring Equinox 2024: What Exactly Is It?

~7 min
Astronomical News

When does spring begin? Why are day and night not really equal at the vernal equinox? And why isn't the spring equinox always the March equinox? Find out here!

Kindergarten Astronomy Test

Can You Pass This Kindergarten Astronomy Test?

Quizzes

This quiz is perfect for both parents and their kids. Test your own knowledge with these easy astronomy questions or join forces with your little one and explore the wonders of space together!

Meteor storm

Meteor Storm: What Is It, And When Is The Next Meteor Outburst?

~4 min
Astronomical News

A meteor storm is the rarest and most spectacular meteor event: that’s when a stream fires over 1,000 meteors per hour! Learn when to observe such a show.

Planetary Alignment 2024: What Is It? When Is the Next Planetary Alignment?

~11 min
Astronomical News

On April 4, 2024, four planets will appear together in the morning sky! Discover how to see them all and get a glimpse into the science behind planetary alignments.

Mars in retrograde

Retrograde motion explained: what is retrograde motion in astronomy

~4 min
Astronomical News

Figure out how retrograde motion works and learn if you should dread Mercury retrograde.

Autumn equinox

First Day of Fall 2024: All About Autumnal Equinox

~6 min
Astronomical News

In 2024, the last day of summer in the Northern Hemisphere is September 22! On that day, the autumnal equinox will occur, marking the beginning of fall. Here is all you need to know.

The Sun's path during solstice better quality

Summer Solstice 2024: The First Day of Summer and the Longest Day

~5 min
Astronomical News

Discover the science behind one of the most important celebrations in the world. Here is everything you need to know about the summer solstice!

Sun on Winter Solstice

Winter Solstice 2024: The Shortest Day of the Year

~8 min
Astronomical News

Winter solstice 2024 is coming on December 21 in the Northern Hemisphere — learn the science and culture behind the shortest day of the year.