There’s a comet around, and for once it is high in the sky and visible all evening. But the downside is that it’s quite faint and small, so don’t expect to spot it from your suburban back garden using binoculars. Read more
Third Starlink launch takes place
Another launch of Starlink satellites took place in the early hours (GMT) of 7 January 2020. Currently the satellites are not visible from the UK, as their passes take place at night when they are not illuminated by the Sun, although they are visible from lower latitudes at twilight. Read more
Our observing sections
Whatever your interests, we’ve a section to suit you. Get expert advice and send in your own observations.
Our weekend courses
Messier’s Heritage – Observing his deep-sky objects 22–24 November 2019. Course now over – see what you missed!
The night sky in January 2020
Here is a map of the sky as it will appear from the latitude of London (51° 50′) in mid January, 2020, at 22h UT (GMT).
How to get started in stargazing
Learning the sky might seem tricky at first. There are so many stars, and unlike visiting a new town or city, the stars keep on moving around!
Choosing a telescope
If you’re interested in astronomy, it stands to reason that you need a telescope, and the bigger the better.