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.
Summer Solstice 2026: First Day of Summer & Longest Day
The summer solstice is June 21, 2026, in the Northern Hemisphere. See the exact summer solstice time, why it is the longest day, and how to celebrate it.
Winter Solstice 2026 in the Southern Hemisphere: The Shortest Day of the Year
The winter solstice 2026 in the Southern Hemisphere falls on June 21. See the exact time, the meaning of the shortest day, and why it occurs.
What Is a Solstice? Meaning, Dates & How It Works
The next solstice is on 21 June 2026. Discover solstice dates, meaning, longest and shortest day facts, and the difference between solstices and equinoxes.
Planetary Alignment 2026: Planet Parade Dates & Meaning
See when the next planetary alignment happens in 2026, which planets will align, and get the full 2026–2027 planet parade dates.
What Is Retrograde Motion? Which Planets Are Retrograde Right Now (June 2026)
Learn what retrograde means, see which planets are retrograde right now, and get an easy way to observe retrograde loops.
Planetary Oppositions 2026: Next Up Is Neptune
The best time to view most planets is at the astronomical opposition. Find out what it means and when to see the upcoming oppositions.
All About Space: What It Is, What It Contains & What It Looks Like
What is space? A beginner-friendly guide to outer space, what it’s made of, what objects fill the Universe, and which of them you can see tonight.
What Is the Oort Cloud? Location, Size, and Key Facts
What is the Oort Cloud? Learn where it is located, how far it is from the Sun, how big it may be, what it contains, and why scientists think it is the source of long-period comets.
What Causes Earth’s Seasons? The Real Astronomical Explanation
Ever wondered what causes the seasons? Spoiler: it's not about the Earth's distance from the Sun in its orbit. Here is the real astronomical explanation.
Mercury & Venus Greatest Elongation in 2026: 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!