observing – Page 9 – Astronomy Now

Why do eclipses happen?

9 June 2021 Keith Cooper

Solar eclipses are relatively rare; they happen when the Moon moves directly and precisely in front of the Sun. Why are they so infrequent, and why do solar eclipses always come in pairs with lunar eclipses?

A naked-eye comet graces our skies

7 July 2020 Mark Armstrong

Comet 2020 F3 (NEOWISE) is putting on a fine showing in the pre-dawn northern sky after emerging intact from perihelion (closest point to the Sun).

Look out for asteroid Juno at opposition

2 April 2020 Mark Armstrong

One of the largest objects in the Asteroid Belt, (3) Juno, comes to opposition on 2 April, when it lies directly opposite the Sun as seen from Earth, and is at its brightest – albeit still only visible through telescopes.

Eclipse safety tips video

19 March 2015 Astronomy Now

Astronomy Now’s Greg Smye-Rumsby offers tips on how to safely view the partial solar eclipse of 20 March 2015.

Eclipse dos and don’ts

18 March 2015 Astronomy Now

How not to observe a solar eclipse! Do not risk permanent damage to your eyesight by using unsafe methods. Make sure the solar eclipse is not the last thing you see!

Why do eclipses happen?

18 March 2015 Keith Cooper

Solar eclipses are relatively rare; they happen when the Moon moves directly and precisely in front of the Sun. Why are they so infrequent, and why do solar eclipses always come in pairs with lunar eclipses?

Get ready for the eclipse!

18 March 2015 Astronomy Now

This Friday a stunning partial eclipse of the Sun will take place over the British Isles, while just a few hundred miles north the Sun will plunge into totality. Eclipse chaser Nick James describes what you can expect to see, and how to image it.

Our complete guide to seeing the solar eclipse in safety

15 March 2015 Astronomy Now

Our complete guide to observing Friday’s large partial eclipse. Find out how observers across the UK and Europe can witness this large partial eclipse in safety.