If the weather forecast proves correct, this week’s sky-watching may be a little difficult for observers in the Kindersley area. But don’t be discouraged! If you are patient, and fortunate, you may be able to spot the waxing moon and a few of the brightest stars through the clouds. One star to look for will… Continue reading The Rainbow Star: Sirius
Author: Rina Rast
Rina graduated from homeschool in 2016 and is a current undergraduate student. Her interests include science, photography, philosophy, and 20th century history. When not analyzing data, tackling term papers, or exploring the night sky through her telescope, she enjoys reading, writing, and walking her canine friends.
Morning Planets
Take a look at the sky before dawn this week, and you’ll be able to experience a stunning display of morning planets. On the morning of January 6, two prominent planets and the moon will have a close grouping in the southeastern sky. Look beneath the moon’s waning crescent to find Venus, the brightest “star-like”… Continue reading Morning Planets
Start 2016 with Comet and Meteors!
What will be the first thing you’ll do in the morning of New Year’s Day? Make noble resolutions? Or just go to bed? I plan to go outside and watch Comet Catalina sail past the famous star Arcturus. You can, too, if you have a regular pair of binoculars and know where to look. When… Continue reading Start 2016 with Comet and Meteors!
‘Christmas Miracle’ – 1914
A chocolate cake. That’s what started it. Or rather, the note that came along with it. Its exact words are not known. But its effect was profound: it inspired one of the most touching examples of humanity in modern warfare. It was Christmas Eve, 1914. The Great War had been raging for nearly five months.… Continue reading ‘Christmas Miracle’ – 1914
Full Moon, Aurora, and More Meteors!
This December 24, weather permitting, we’ll be getting a rare Christmas treat—a full moon, shining from sunset straight through until sunrise. It’ll reach its full phase early in the morning on December 25. Because it’ll be in the sky for so long, this moon is called the Long Night Moon. And, it’ll be the first… Continue reading Full Moon, Aurora, and More Meteors!
Geminid Meteor Shower!
With clear skies promised for a few nights this week, this could be your chance to see the incredible Geminid meteors at their best! Technically, this meteor shower peaked on Sunday and Monday—right when Kindersley was shrouded in clouds and fog. Fortunately for us, though, it will still be nice viewing throughout this week. Offering… Continue reading Geminid Meteor Shower!
December Challenge: Find The Summer Triangle
No, that’s not a type-o. Though the weather definitely reflects winter, the pattern of stars known as the Summer Triangle will be visible throughout the month of December. It features the prominent stars Vega, Deneb, and Altair. Maybe you’ve seen it before, high overhead during the summer months. To see it now, look in the western sky just… Continue reading December Challenge: Find The Summer Triangle
December Night Sky
The air may be frigid and you’ll have to cut your observing times short because of the cold, but December is actually one of the best times of year to be sky-watching. Why? Two reasons: first, the sky is wonderfully dark from early evening until about 7:00 a.m.—and secondly, the cold air reduces atmospheric distortion. So this month,… Continue reading December Night Sky