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About Astronomy and Telescopes
There are about 30 billion stars in our galaxy alone.
With many of these roughly similar to our own sun, we are now realizing that between 5 and 90 percent of those stars have their own planetary systems. Thanks to technological advancements in Astronomy, 150 planets have already been discovered in the last ten years. In fact, we are now living through one of the most important and prolific periods of space discovery since early humans first looked up to the stars and began to search for answers to the universe. Modern Astronomy, with high definition CCD imaging and computer aided tracking and enhancement, opens new doors to an ever-evolving theory of life and the universe.
With these technological advances filtering down into the realms of amateur astronomy, it's now possible for everyone to observe views of space in incredible detail, once only available to astronomers using large observatory telescopes.
Are you new to Astronomy?
Your first step into space exploration need not be an expensive one. The great thing about star gazing is that your eyes are the only instrument you'll need, at least to begin with... and they cost you nothing! Observing space with the naked eye is in fact an important first stage to get your bearings on the simplest scale. By learning what and where certain celestial objects are without optical aids means you can recognize the map of the night sky a lot easier without worrying about the billions of objects that come into view when using visual enhancements. So on clear nights (away from city lights if possible) look up and learn the basics first ... Where is the North Star? - or if you live in the southern hemisphere - where is the Southern Cross? A simple star map will show these and all the main constellations, which acts as a kind of grid so that you can identify other objects in relation to them. So for example, if the planet Jupiter was crossing Orion at any given time, you will soon be able to identify Orion, then you'll see Jupiter within that area. After you feel you have learnt these basics, we would recommend that you get a simple computer program that helps you to progress towards the next stages in identification and observation. We highly recommend a very useful computer program called "Starry Night". There are various versions from beginner to advanced. But the Beginner's program will more than suffice at this stage.
Time to buy a telescope?
Some of the most significant recent celestial discoveries where made by amateur Astronomers gazing at the stars in their own back yard! Modern amateur telescopes are not only reasonably priced but far more usable now with the use of computer aided navigation. Even a small telescope with the appropriate connections into your laptop computer will provide accurate and really satisfying results. With CCD technology cheap and easily available, anyone with a webcam, an adapter and a reasonable telescope can now take amazing pictures of our own galactic neighbourhood and far beyond. With this simple technique, amateur Astronomers are producing photographs which parallel the quality of pictures taken in the 1960's using massive observatory telescopes.
Happy star-gazing.