Astronomy for beginners

BEST TIME TO SEE: As shown Jupiter is a magnificent planet to observe. Through the eyepiece, it presents a tangible disc full of detail. Weather and local seeing effects can reduce the visibility, but

1 Thursday The Moon’s libration makes it favourable for viewing features near the southern pole today. At 21:06 UT, Saturn’s largest moon, Titan, can be seen emerging from behind Saturn’s disc. Callis

Earth’s orbit around the Sun is slightly elliptical, which means our distance from the Sun varies over the course of the year – and that brings effects that are fascinating to capture. The variation s

Best time to see: 10 January, 00:15 UT Altitude: 59° Location: Gemini Direction: South Features: Complex atmosphere, moons Recommended equipment: 100mm or larger Jupiter reaches opposition on 10 Janua

It’s December, which means it’s time for the best meteor shower of the year – the Geminids. Perseids fans may disagree, but long, dark nights and a broader activity peak give the Geminids the edge. Tr

Astronomers are now regularly detecting planets thousands of light years from Earth – but have we missed one in our own Solar System?