Beginner's guide

Astronomy as a hobby

Astronomy is one of the best of all hobbies. So how do you make a start?

First - you do not need to rush out and buy an expensive telescope! Quite the reverse. A telescope can come later, but there are several things to be done first; moreover there are many observations that can be carried out with just your naked eye. Obviously, the very first step is to grasp the fundamentals, and there are many books which can help.

Next, arm yourself with an outline star map, go out when the sky is dark and clear and learn your way around the star patterns or constellations. This is a surprisingly quick process - and after a few nights you will find that the stars become really familiar.

Next, it is an excellent idea to join an astronomical society. Many towns and cities now have them, and in general there are no age limits; you do not need any qualifications for entry. Your local society may well have an observatory and, in any case, there are bound to be people who will give you all the help and advice you may need.

By this time you will have made up your mind which branches of astronomy interest you the most. You will have become an amateur astronomer!

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