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 (September 2026)? Retrograde Motion Explained
Learn what retrograde means, see which planets are retrograde right now, and get an easy way to observe retrograde loops.
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.
Zodiacal Light: What It Is and When to See It in 2026
What is zodiacal light? Learn when and where to see false dawn or false dusk, how to recognize it, and which dates to choose in 2026.
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.
Lunar Eclipses Guide: What Does a Lunar Eclipse Look Like, and How Often Does It Happen?
What causes lunar eclipses? How often do they happen? When is the next one? Get answers to these and other questions from our article.
20 Questions About Solar and Lunar Eclipses: True or False?
Answer 20 true-or-false questions about solar and lunar eclipses. Check the answers and discover surprising facts about these celestial events.