The ecliptic is the sun’s path in our sky

The ecliptic is the path the sun takes across our sky. It's the Earth-sun plane, and, more or less, the plane of our solar system.

What is the zodiac? Why is it important in astronomy?

Maybe you associate the word zodiac with astrology. But it has an honored place in astronomy, too. It's defined by the path of the sun across our sky.

What’s a supermoon? Here are the supermoons in 2026

What's a supermoon? In 2026, we will have three full supermoons and five new supermoons. The first full supermoon is in January.

Sky measurements: Degrees, arcminutes and arcseconds

What are sky measurements - or distances - in the night sky? Here's what it means for objects to be several degrees (or arcminutes or arcseconds) apart.

How often are there three eclipses in one month?

We last had three eclipses in one lunar month in 2020. It'll next happen in the year 2029. From 2000-2050, there are 3 eclipses in one lunar month 14 times.

How to watch a solar eclipse safely

Here are some great tips to watch a solar eclipse safely in a variety of ways, using filters, pinhole cameras, and other viewing methods.

Uranus at opposition on November 25, 2026

Don't miss Uranus at opposition on November 25, 2026. At this time, it's brightest for the year and visible to the eye under optimum observing conditions.

How to know your eclipse glasses are safe

Unscrupulous companies are printing ISO certification labels on fake eclipse glasses. Check here for reputable vendors from the American Astronomical Society.

New Year’s Star Sirius, the moon and Jupiter ring in 2026

Entertain your friends on New Year's Eve by showing them the New Year's Star, the soon-to-be full supermoon and Jupiter. Sirius is highest at midnight.

Why are stars so bright on winter nights?

In December, January and February, we look away from the Milky Way's cloudy core toward the Orion spiral arm, with stars so bright they capture our attention.