Overview — Course No. 1846

Embark on a journey through the wonders of the night sky with an award-winning astronomer. Our Night Sky offers a comprehensive introduction to stargazing, from the origins of constellations to using telescopes and understanding celestial phenomena. Learn to navigate the sky, use binoculars and telescopes effectively, and explore the myths and science behind the stars and planets.

Video Lessons

01: The Constellations and Their Stars

Investigate the origins of constellations and the fascinating blend of mythology and science in the constellation Orion.

Duration: 34 min

02: Seeing and Navigating the Sky

Master using your naked eye for observing, learn to identify celestial positions, and understand how the sky changes nightly.

Duration: 34 min

03: Using Binoculars and Backyard Telescopes

Discover what to look for in binoculars and telescopes, and how to get the best observing experience from your equipment.

Duration: 30 min

04: Observing the Moon and the Sun

Learn about observing the moon and sun, including precautions and the fascinating details visible through a telescope.

Duration: 33 min

05: Observing the Planets with a Telescope

Explore the planets through a telescope, from Saturn’s rings to Venus’s phases, and learn when to observe each.

Duration: 34 min

06: Meteor Showers, Comets, Eclipses, and More

Delve into special sky phenomena like meteor showers, comets, and eclipses, and learn how to best observe them.

Duration: 33 min

07: The Northern Sky and the North Celestial Pole

Tour the Northern Hemisphere’s sky, focusing on Ursa Major and Cassiopeia, and the shifting North Celestial Pole.

Duration: 32 min

08: The Fall Sky

Navigate the autumn sky, exploring constellations like Andromeda, Perseus, and the Andromeda galaxy.

Duration: 31 min

09: The Winter Sky

Survey the winter sky, dominated by Orion, and discover the Pleiades, Hyades, and the Orion Nebula.

Duration: 33 min

10: The Spring Sky

Explore the spring sky, including the galaxy-rich Virgo and Coma Berenices clusters.

Duration: 31 min

11: The Summer Sky

Study the summer sky, focusing on the Milky Way and the Summer Triangle for orientation.

Duration: 31 min

12: The Southern Sky and the Milky Way

Conclude with the Southern Hemisphere’s sky, featuring the Southern Cross, Magellanic Clouds, and a stunning Milky Way view.

Duration: 32 min