The night sky offers a treasure trove of celestial wonders. To see them, you just need to know where and how to look. The following Web links provide some great sky-watching tools you can use to enjoy the beauty of the night sky.

Satellites in the night sky

Mars in the night sky

“Dark skies” movement

Star parties (and more)

All Sky Program for schools

Sky Watcher’s Checklist
Next time you go camping, be sure to bring your binoculars! There are lots of things you can see in the night sky without a telescope. To learn more, download our guide, “Things You Can See Using Binoculars.” Requires the free PDF viewer to read.

It’s a good idea to tape a red filter (cellophane, tissue paper, or taillight repair tape) over your flashlight, so you can see to walk while keeping your eyes dark-adapted.

Don’t forget to make your own star chart! Uncle Al’s Sky Wheels, a Web page from the University of California at Berkeley, will show you how. You can also make up your own constellations and tell stories about them.

Be a daytime astronomer and make your own sundial. The Museum of Science and Industry has an on-line activity page to give you all the details.

With a little effort, you can even learn to tell time at night using the Big Dipper. Our downloadable guide, “Telling Time at Night,” tells you what you need to know. Requires the free PDF viewer to read.