Astronomy for Beginners
New to astronomy? Not sure how to get started in stargazing or which telescope to buy?
Here’s where you’ll find observing guides, how-to articles and great astronomy hints and tips. Don’t forget to check out our comprehensive astronomy dictionary.
General Guides
'How To' Guides
Astronomy Dictionary
Einstein Ring
This is a rare form of gravitational lens that occurs when a distant galaxy’s light is magnified by another galaxy directly in front of it, as seen from Earth. The result is a distorted image of a background galaxy in the shape of a perfect ring.
Spectroscopy
A method of determining the chemical composition of a substance by the electromagnetic radiation it absorbs or emits. Through spectroscopy, scientists can discover the chemical components of distant celestial bodies.
Heliacal rising
The date when a star first becomes visible in the dawn sky, rising just before the Sun.
