As Jupiter reaches its closest point to Earth for the year, observers are reporting that its famous Great Red Spot is rapidly shrinking. Read more
New satellite threat to visual observing
The first of a major series of satellites produced by Elon Musk’s SpaceX corporation have been launched, and are already causing consternation among astronomers (see update below). A string of 60 satellites have been seen crossing the night sky, and the plan is eventually to launch 12,000 such satellites. 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
We’ll be holding another weekend course in November 2019 – details to be announced. Meanwhile, you can click here to find out about last year’s Preston Montford Weekend Course
The night sky in June 2019
Here is a map of the sky as it will appear from the latitude of London (51° 50′) in mid June, 2019, 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.