Sky Patterns
Why the Moon’s Shape Changes Through the Month
Why the Moon’s shape changes through the month comes down to sunlight and viewing angle. Learn to recognise the phases…
The archive
All articles
Read across sky patterns, observation, instruments and cosmic history. Each article starts with a concrete question and leaves room for what a careful observer can and cannot conclude.
Instruments
Printed Star Chart or Phone App for Finding Constellations?
Compare a printed star chart and phone app for finding constellations, then choose the tool that fits your route, sky…
Cosmic History
Before Telescopes: How People Mapped the Sky
Before telescopes, people mapped the sky by watching stars repeat, recording their positions and turning scattered…
Observation
The Constellation Shortcut That Can Lead You Astray
Constellations are useful for finding your way across the sky, but their stars can be far apart in space. Learn what…
Stargazing
A First Evening with the Summer Triangle
Learn to find the Summer Triangle, follow its changing position through the evening and use its three bright stars to…