ASTRONOMY

Astronomy is the study of the celestial bodies and their compositions, motions, and origins. Most astronomers concentrate on a particular question or area of astronomy, for example, planetary science, solar astronomy, the origin and evolution of stars, or the formation of galaxies. Observational astronomers design and carry out observing programs with a telescope or spacecraft to answer a question or test the predictions of theories. Theorists work with complex computer models of a star's interior, for example, to understand the physical processes responsible for the star's appearance.

Astronomy is different from most sciences in that we can't directly interact with the object of study. That is, it is impossible to dissect, weigh, touch, smell, or otherwise experiment with a star. For the most part, we learn about astronomical objects indirectly by observing the light they emit or reflect, and measuring the motions they and their celestial neighbors exhibit. Gains in astronomical knowledge are made through research, a systematic inquiry in which scientists define a question, gather relevant data, formulate a hypothesis, then test the predictions of that hypothesis.

Keep in mind - you can never actually "see" as star as it is. Consider a telescope as a window to the past. The light from Alpha Centauri, our nearest neighboring star, takes over four years to get here - a decent backyard telescope can spot and resolve celestial objects many times that. For a sense of perspective, the Crab Nebula we can observe today is the remnants of a super nova that lit the night skies over a thousand years ago. Feel free to feel small when studying the sky - I know I certainly do.

As an amateur astronomer (and I consider myself still a "novice" amateur) you do need to realize there is a learning curve involved. Decent equipment is a must, but that's only the start. Expect to spend considerable time learning the craft. You need to learn how your equipment works, and more importantly, how to keep it working. Many a budding observer finds the hobby too demanding and move onto other things. Expect to be discouraged and spend some time scratching your head learning how to make it work for you. I found the payoff was well worth the effort.

Once you get the hang of the basics, feel free to expand your horizons - literally. Obviously, your most important asset is a good scope, but that's just the start. There are many tools available to simplify viewing and keep the budding astronomer busy and entertained. When to view, how to view, and what's available for viewing? Software, charts, books, accessories - I've listed my favorites to date in the links section of this page.