Have you ever wanted to lie down and look at the stars? Here's how to do it best.
Steps
Step 1. Prepare in advance
Check the weather to find an evening with clear skies and not too cold or hot. Make sure no storms are coming. You can also go to the library first and consult astronomy or stargazing books to get an idea of what to look for.
Step 2. Find an open space suitable for observation
Check that there are not too many trees that could limit the view.
Step 3. Prepare for the weather
If it's going to be a cold night, be sure to wear a sweater or sweatshirt, pants, and possibly gloves. If it is hot, wear shorts, t-shirt, etc.
Step 4. Ask others to accompany you
Friends are great for keeping you company and can also point you to things you may not have noticed. It is also romantic if you and your partner explore the sky together.
Step 5. Get a comfortable blanket to lie down or cover yourself, or a chair, a clock, a telescope if you like, and whatever else you might need
Step 6. Prepare the pitch
Make sure it's a comfortable environment, where you don't have to jump from side to side to pick up or move things, do something simple.
Step 7. Look at the sky
Do you recognize anything? Point it out and look for others.
Step 8. Relax
Stargazing doesn't have to be stressful. It's something you do in your spare time and it has to be fun.
Step 9. Look for shooting stars
If you find one, make a wish. Who knows, maybe it will come true …
Step 10. Find the north celestial pole (the North Star) and the south pole (near the Southern Cross)
Advice
- To find constellations and stars more easily, find an inline star map and check which season they are visible and at what time.
- If you find a star that isn't on the maps, give it the name of someone you love!
- Try to stay away from city lights. The light emitted by street lamps can prevent you from identifying constellations and stars.
- Find a soundtrack! Observing is more fun with music. Classical, rock and trance music are perfect as a backdrop to a starry night.
- Use clusters of stars, such as the Big Dipper, to find larger constellations.
- Stellarium allows you to download a planetarium for free that you can use to see a preview of the night sky where you are. It is also useful for simulating cloudy skies, etc.
