There’s more to observe in city skies than you might think
As the evenings draw in and astronomers everywhere feel a sense of anticipation at real darkness returning to the skies, this issue we’re taking a look at stargazing from towns and cities – where many of us live. Will Gater is your guide to getting the best observing time from these more brightly lit locations, sharing expert tips for observers with the naked eye, telescopes and binoculars, as well as advice on imaging targets. Discover the best sights to seek out in our Urban Stargazing feature.
If you are an urban astronomer, there’s plenty of advice there which will also be handy for our Grand Tour of highlights in autumn’s night skies. Stuart Atkinson takes us from one seasonal sight to another in an observing expedition that’s ideal for newcomers and experienced amateur astronomers alike, in celebration of the return of dark skies.
However, when darkness fell on the Hubble Space Telescope and it abruptly shut down in June, the news wasn’t so welcome. Was this latest glitch in the orbiting observatory’s long and venerable history to be the last? Happily it was not to be, and here Melissa Brobby tells the inside story of how the mission team at Goddard Space Flight Center found and solved the issue, restoring Hubble once again to providing a stream of scientific data and amazing images.
And speaking of stunning space imagery, look no further than the winning photographs from the 13th Astronomy Photographer of the Year competition. They are a breathtaking collection of astrophotos, representing the pinnacle of imaging skill and dedication – I’m sure you’ll join me in congratulating the winners.
Enjoy the issue!
PS Our next issue goes on sale on Thursday 21 October.