Exploring The Night Sky

Exploring The Night Sky

Learn • Observe • Discover

Explore the Universe from your own back garden.

Whether you’re taking your first steps into astronomy or choosing your first telescope, Exploring The Night Sky is here to help you learn, observe and enjoy the wonders of the Universe with clear guides, practical advice and honest equipment reviews.

See the Perseid Meteor Shower

Discover when the Perseids peak, where to look and how to give yourself the best chance of seeing one of the year’s most popular meteor showers.

Read the Perseid observing guide →

Sky-Watcher 130mm Newtonian Review

Discover what this beginner-friendly Newtonian telescope includes, what you can see through it and whether it is a good choice for your first serious telescope.

Read the full telescope review →

Sky Alert

Partial Solar Eclipse

12 August 2026

Much of the UK will see the Moon cover a large part of the Sun during one of the most memorable astronomical events of the year.

Read the observing guide →

Sky Alert

Partial Lunar Eclipse

28 August 2026

Watch part of the Moon pass through Earth’s shadow during the second eclipse event of the month.

Read the viewing guide →

Start Here

What Is Astronomy?

Discover what astronomy is, what astronomers study and how exploring the night sky can open the door to understanding the Universe.

Discover astronomy →

Beginner’s Guide

Beginner Astronomy Guide

Find straightforward introductions to telescopes, observing, astronomy equipment and the basic knowledge needed to begin exploring the night sky.

Open the astronomy guide →

Getting Started

Beginner Stargazing Guide

Learn where and when to observe, how to protect your night vision and how to begin recognising stars, planets and constellations.

Start stargazing →