Stargazing on a Saturday night is a unique way to create memories with your friends and loved ones. You can have a fun night outside on a budget and even learn new things about the universe. Luckily, exploring the night sky requires very little equipment and by following our tips, you are sure to have a wonderful stargazing trip!
Planning the time of your trip
Timing is key. Understanding the time and place of your destination is key to your stargazing experience. Different stars are visible at different times of the year, and their visibility depends on their location. Things to consider are:
The celestial object (star, planet, constellation) that you are wanting to view from your location.
The time of year the object is visible from your location.
The time of night the object is visible from your location.
The weather on the day you plan to visit.
The phase of the moon at your location.
It’s best to conduct stargazing during a full moon. Furthermore, take a look at the weather before you embark on your adventure. You want to view the stars on a clear night with little cloud cover blocking your view.
Many apps can help you research what is visible at your location throughout the year. With the help of modern technology, you can ensure that your trip will be a success.
What to pack
Though this is entirely up to you, packing the following items can help ensure a fun and successful trip!
A telescope or binoculars if you would like a closer look at the galaxy!
Be comfortable. Bring something to lie on. A blanket or a camping mat.
Good food and drinks. Snacks, hot drinks, such as hot chocolate, anything that can be enjoyed or prepared outside
Extra clothes just in case you get cold. are always great ways to keep everyone happy whilst out stargazing.
A compass to help you locate constellations or specific stars.
A camera, so you can photograph the stars and memories.
What to look for
The Sun: It’s the nearest star in our galaxy and the most visible star in the sky. While it can be fun to examine the sun up close, avoid looking directly at the sun as it causes eye damage. Use a simple pinhole viewer to ensure your safety.
The Moon: Only 12 people have ever set foot on it, and we can see it every day. Bring a telescope and but we can see it every day. It controls our tides and orbits the sun with the Earth. On a clear night, it can be viewed in detail by using binoculars which make it possible to see the craters and bumpy edges.
The Stars and Constellations: Depending on the time of year, your location, and the weather, you’ll be able to spot specific stars and their corresponding constellations in the night sky. It’s fun to remember that as you gaze into the galaxy you are getting a glimpse of the past as it takes light much longer to travel to get to our eyes.
Naming a star in the night sky
Wouldn’t it be great to show off a special star on your stargazing trip? You can make your trip extra memorable by naming a star after someone you love! Even better, you can ensure that your star is visible from your location by buying your star name on our website. No star on the Star Register is named twice. Surprise your friends or family and check out our gift selections.