Stargazing |

Imagined scene of Diocles studying a concave bronze mirror concentrating sunlight.

Ancient Telescopes and Lenses: What Did the Ancients Know?

Long before Galileo pointed a telescope at the night sky in 1609, people across the ancient world were already experimenting with lenses, mirrors, and glass. They knew that curved crystal and water-filled glass could magnify …

Fun Facts About The Geminids Meteor Shower

James Miller

Each December, stargazers are treated to the year’s grand finale meteor shower known as the Geminids. This dazzling two week spectacle is one of the 10 biggest annual meteor showers, and considered one of the …

Mapping The Night Sky Using Ursa Major

James Miller

Ursa Major (“Big Bear”) is the third largest constellation, and being so recognizable makes it a natural reference point for locating several important constellations of the night sky. Ursa Major: The 7 brightest stars in …

Mapping The Night Sky Using Orion

James Miller

Orion is one of the most striking constellations in the night sky, and in the northern hemisphere is clearly seen in winter from November to February. Fortunately, it is also one of the easiest ones …