Posts by 

Deborah Byrd

Fomalhaut is the Loneliest Star … but not in 2025

Fomalhaut is known as the 'lonely one' or 'solitary one' because it shines brightly in an otherwise dim patch of sky. But in 2025, Saturn is nearby.

Our top 10 stargazing tips for beginning astronomers

If you're new to observing the night sky, check out our top 10 stargazing tips for beginners. We'll help you explore and expand your love for astronomy.

Rare Chi Cygnids are active! Maybe. Observing info here

The Chi Cygnids are a September meteor shower that shows increased activity every 5 years. And 2025 is one of those years! Observing info here.

Afghanistan earthquake: Impassable roads, inclement weather

The Taliban, which rules war-torn Afghanistan, has asked the world for help with recovery efforts following Sunday's 6.0-magnitude Afghanistan earthquake.

Sudan landslide flattens village, leaves uncertain death toll

There are conflicting reports of the death toll today, following Sunday's Sudan landslide in the remote Marra Mountains. But it appears hundreds are dead.

Rare Black Moon coming August 22-23! Why so special?

We'll have a Black Moon on August 22-23, 2025. A Black Moon is a special kind of new moon. Learn more about Black Moons here.

Thuban was the North Star for the ancient Egyptians

The North Star changes over time. Thuban was the Pole Star some 5,000 years ago, when the Egyptians were building the pyramids.

Witnessing a solar system’s dawn, for the 1st time

Astronomers have witnessed a solar system's dawn. They see the 1st specks of planet-forming material: hot minerals just beginning to solidify.

Scutum the Shield is named for a Polish king

Constellation Scutum consists only of a few stars, but it's noticeable in a dark sky because a rich region of the Milky Way is behind it.

New Horizons visited Pluto 10 years ago

New Horizons flew past distant Pluto 10 years ago in 2015. It changed forever the way we perceive this outermost world and its moons.