Resources for Backyard Astronomers

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Below are the names of and links to a number of the many helpful and free resources available on the internet. 

• To locate and identify stars, planets, satellites, learn about celestial events, control your telescope and more check out the Android and iOS apps Sky Safari and Star Walk.

• For space, NASA, and astronomy news see Space.com .

• Cloudy Nights is a forum for amateur astronomers and an equipment marketplace.

• For atmospheric viewing conditions see Clear Dark Sky and Astrospheric . (Both sites have free apps)

• TheSkyLive is a guide to the solar system and the night sky.

• Stellarium is a free, open-source planetarium for your computer.

• Astronomy Magazine

• Sky & Telescope magazine

• Night Sky Network (planner page) The Night Sky Network is a nationwide coalition of amateur astronomy clubs bringing the science, technology, and inspiration of NASA's missions to the general public. They share their time and telescopes to provide you with unique astronomy experiences at science museums, observatories, classrooms, and under the real night sky. Bookmark this page as your one-stop planning resource for astronomy events. 

• Spaceweather is a good site for info on solar events, aurorae, meteor showers, and T Cor Bor (Blaze Star).

• For tracking satellites go to the website Heavens Above.

• Free, printable star maps are available at Sky Maps