Basic Stargazing
April 5th 2011 05:03
Category: Stars
At times it is hard to know where to look when you are trying to finding constellations and planets.
If you are just starting out the stars all look pretty much the same. Even when you think you have something that looks a constellation you may find that you are looking at the wrong one. Take for example the Southern Cross or the Big Dipper.
If you happen to live in the cities and towns the light pollution tends to block out the fainter stars of a constellation making it a little difficult to make out the whole outline of the constellation you just happen to be looking for.
There are few tools you can get that make the job of knowing where to look. You can invest in a Planisphere, they are relatively inexpensive and most book shops do have them.
I have included a like to a web site where you can download the free planisphere program. Please use the link below
Click Here to Open New window Sky Chart Planisphere Software Download Planisphere Software Here
Using the program is pretty straight forward you will need to enter your location time use the setup tab, there is a help file as well.
Planispheres are easy to use just rotate the little wheel to the time and date and it will give you the location of the stars planets and constellation.
Alternatively you can download a free program that will enable you to make your own planishere.
Most planispheres use a circle that represents the points on a compass the observer is where the east north west and south intersect. Looking straight up is called the Zenith. The edge of the circle is represented by the horizon.
All you need do is print the star map if your interested in finding a particular constellation like Orion you will find Orion at this time of month is located toward the horizon looking South East.
A planisphere will make looking for constellation a breeze.
With the right "road map to the stars," you'll be able to navigate to interesting stellar views be able to locate faint nebulas as well as star clusters, galaxies. The nigh sky is now your theatre.
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