Astronomy is a serious science and a popular hobby all over the world. As with any other hobby there are tons of articles and a lot of information written for enthusiasts, but also to chronicle the happenings in the ?professional? arena. An astronomy magazine can be a wealth of information including amazing imagery, and guides to help with home telescope use. Now that these magazines are online, it’s an even better world for amateur astronomers.
A top astronomy magazine in the UK is ?Astronomy Now?. It’s been around for 20 years and caters to both hobbyists and the pros. The magazine regularly includes features on everything to do with the science, and focus articles that go further in depth into a particular subject or aspect of Astronomy. This is in addition to monthly regular features which include star charts, book reviews, images submitted by readers and all sorts of guidance. The web site includes most of this information including a much better presentation of the sky chart than can be delivered in any paper magazine. The sky can be shown for any month, period of the month (early or late,) time and at various magnifications. It’s a real help to anyone with a telescope.
Sky and Telescope is another excellent astronomy magazine. It describes itself as having an astronomy expert at your side. Imagine gazing up at the stars while Carl Sagan, rest his soul, stood ready to deliver important tips and information. Of course the magazine not only focuses on this important information, but includes stunning imagery of outer space objects and phenomenon. One exciting piece of imagery Sky and Telescope delivered in November of 2008 was images of a planet orbiting another star. If these images hold up, it would be the first time astronomers have taken images of a planet in another star system.
It’s likely that the first web site anyone finds when searching for information on Astronomy is that of the world’s best selling astronomy magazine, ?Astronomy?. The latest information presented by this publication, online via its web site, is truly stunning. It includes the first images ever taken of another solar system. Also posted is an audio tour, in the form of a podcast, of the constellation Cassiopeia. The site also has constant, permanent information such as a guide to the night sky for beginners, tips and information for kids who want to delve into astronomy, equipment guides, and guides to astronomy in an urban sky. It’s a great magazine to have, and a great web site to visit.
Admitting to being cheap, the author admits to sticking to web sites instead of purchasing any astronomy magazine. But online or in print, these are priceless guides.
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