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

