December brings a mix of emotions for amateur astronomers. The nights are longer, so there is more time available for viewing. In addition to longer nights, winter also holds some bright stars and constellations. But it comes at a price. The weather at night will be cold and it could be snowing. But that cold air sometimes allows for better seeing. So if you can brave the winter weather there are some jewels in the sky to look at over the next couple of months.
December’s fundamentals meeting will feature “Sparkling Winter Star Clusters.” With the approach of cold weather it’s easier, and warmer, to observe from home (in the backyard, rather than going out to dark sites). In December’s talk our speaker will present a selection of star clusters to observe from the backyard that punch through light pollution yet present an interesting variety. Some are popular show piece objects but many are less well known but quite rewarding in their own right. They are relatively bright and definitely worth a short stay outside to take in the view before returning inside to the warmth of the home.
To find out how to brave the cold and see some nice celestial objects join us as NAA member and Fundamentals Program Director, Ron Ziss shares his knowledge of telescopes and observing.
Astronomy Fundamentals: What We Can Learn from Impact Craters
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Exoplanet Atmospheres and the Search for Extraterrestrial Life
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March ’25 – Rick’s Picks
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Europa Clipper: NASA Investigates an Icy Ocean
Europa, one of Jupiter's four biggest moons, appears to harbor a liquid ocean not far beneath its bright, icy surface. Is there life there? NASA plans to fly the Europa Clipper spacecraft to orbit Jupiter and, making frequent flybys of Europa, will study the...