You may have bought this December issue of BBC Sky at Night Magazine because you’ve been given – or you’ve treated yourself to – a new telescope for Christmas. And you may be wondering what to do with

Spot magnificent wintertime sky illuminations in these key hotspots

The Milky Way is a firm favourite for nightscape photographers and astrophotographers alike, but beautiful images of our Galaxy are well within reach of beginners with basic entry-level equipment too.

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

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

(whatever your budget!)