SOUL

Star Gazing

The night sky is divided into 88 constellations or groupings of stars. Most of these constellations are visible from the U.S. at different times of the year. For instance, during the Spring you may see Leo(the Lion) or Ursa Major (the Great Bear).

On a clear, moonless night, a thousand or more stars are visible, as well as five planets, a few star clusters, and a spiral galaxy.

The darker the sky, the better the star gazing. Also, higher altitudes lend themselves to better star gazing because it helps to eliminate polluting effects of city lights and turbulence in the Earth’s atmosphere.

Stargazing does not have to involve expensive equipment or a trip to a planetarium. The best equipment for stargazing remains the least expensive – a pair of wide-open eyes and a mind craving the expansive beauty of the night sky. Beyond that, the next best piece of equipment is a quality pair of binoculars, a comfortable reclining chair and a blanket for chilly evenings.

For the best locations near you to star gaze and relax, contact a local amateur astronomers group.