Observing – Astronomy Now

14 August 2026

How to observe the 12 August 2026 solar eclipse

7 August 2026 Emily Baldwin-Fiebrich

On the evening of 12 August 2026, the Moon will pass between Earth and the Sun, producing a striking solar eclipse. Find out how, when and where to observe it safely.

How to see the 3 March total lunar eclipse

25 February 2026 Emily Baldwin-Fiebrich

A total lunar eclipse is centred on the mid-Pacific 3 March, visible to observers in New Zealand and sweeping eastern Australia and western USA, with a large partial eclipse extending further east and west.

The Moon’s February world tour

30 January 2026 Emily Baldwin-Fiebrich

Get ready for a month packed full of thrilling Moon-related events! From occultations of stars and planets, and even an eclipse, the Moon has some treats in store for astronomers around the world.

A stunning night sky composite photograph shows dozens of bright Perseid meteors streaking across the sky above a rural landscape, with the Milky Way arching overhead. The foreground features trees, a house, and softly lit structures, creating a serene countryside scene.

Meteor shower calendar

14 November 2025 Emily Baldwin-Fiebrich

There are many meteor showers throughout the year. Here are the most prominent.

How to observe meteor showers

14 November 2025 Emily Baldwin-Fiebrich

Everything you need to know to get started with observing meteors.

How to see Comet Lemmon

29 October 2025 Emily Baldwin-Fiebrich

Don’t miss the chance to see Comet C/2025 A6 (Lemmon) as it races towards its closest approach of the Sun on 8 November.

Four telescope images showing the progression of Titan's shadow crossing Saturn

See Titan’s shadow transit Saturn – next chance 2038!

3 October 2025 Emily Baldwin-Fiebrich

On 6 October the shadow of Titan, Saturn’s giant moon, can be seen crossing Saturn’s creamy cloud tops.

Nova outburst in Centaurus

24 September 2025 Emily Baldwin-Fiebrich

There’s a ‘new’ star in the constellation of Centaurus. A nova dramatically appeared on 22 September, discovered by John Seach of Grafton, Australia.

Graphic showing the close conjunction of Jupiter and Venus with other stars and contellations marked on a dark sky, above a horizon with trees in silhouette.

Venus and Jupiter’s bright morning conjunction

10 August 2025 Emily Baldwin-Fiebrich

Get ready for a clash of the titans when Venus and Jupiter, the two brightest planets in our Solar System, come together for a dazzling event visible across the length and breadth of the UK in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

The extraordinary Ring Nebula (Messier 57), showing off its multilayered form. Image: Bob Fera.

Lyra’s stunning smoke ring – M57

10 June 2025 Astronomy Now

Messier 57, the Ring Nebula, graces the constellation Lyra as one of the finest planetary nebulae in the night sky. A true summer showpiece, it’s remarkably easy to locate and observe—even through modest instruments as small as 80mm (about three inches) in aperture.