How to Get Started in Astronomy

What does it take to become an astronomer? Well, curiosity is a requisite. It's what fuels you to look at the night sky, wondering about outer space, its objects and energies, how the universe began and the sheer magnificence of its lights and vastness.

If you want to make a career out of 'stargazing,' it may not be enough to just look skyward at night or name the constellations. Being an astronomer entails a lot of work, observations and academic studies, and one has to network with other astronomers and secure funds for equipment purchase and upkeep and other expenses.

But astronomy, which has gained steadily increasing popularity among 'stargazers' the world over, is not just for people with PhD's in planetary science or astrophysics. There are a watchful army of observers armed with simple telescopes, keeping their eyes on certain sections of the night sky.

Amateur astronomers have in fact made some contributions to astronomical studies. Gazers in Cebu, Philippines, for instance, have discovered the two more red spots on planet Jupiter.

To help you get started in astronomy, here are some things you need to have:

Telescope(s). You may try good reflectors, which are far cheaper to start with and provide better viewing. If you want, you can try out the popular telescopes from Meade, Orion, Bushnell and Celestron. These are the leading manufacturers of quality telescopes for astronomy amateurs. If you want to make your own telescope, simply find some do-it-yourself instructions on the web and purchase the parts.

Map. You can download stargazing maps from some websites. You can't just point your telescope at any direction without any clue of what you're looking at. The sky is too wide and you need a good telescope to locate certain heavenly objects accurately.

Astronomy book. Studying astronomy is a lot of headwork. Your observations must be guided by theories and information on astronomy. Although there is a multitude of astronomy books out there in the library, you may also surf the internet, or try "Turn Left at Orion," which also teaches you how to use your telescope.

Notebook. Jot down your observations, impressions and discoveries, be it on a paper notebook, a handheld gizmo or a computer.

The stars look good from way up there at night. They beckon. And astronomy needs more eyes checking the wide sky for - take your pick - stars, planets, systems, galaxies, comets, meteors, asteroids, near-earth objects, and a lot more. But first, you have to be curious enough.

For those who would like to learn more about astronomy and telescopes: types of telescope

When you need more information about commercially available telescopes, try searching for it here: celestron telescopes