How to observe the deep sky

2006 January 01

Deep Sky Observer's Companion

A comprehensive tutorial for the novice deep sky observer, this compilation consists of what skilled observers have written and said about their experiences. It discusses the basic and not-so-basic techniques of observing our Universe beyond the solar system. Whether you have binoculars or a telescope, this guide provides the background you'll need to start observing.

2006 February 02

Deep Sky Observing Checklist

Guidelines to help you to get the most out of your observing sessions by providing a checklist of things to look out for when you examine a deep sky object.

2006 January 01

Discover! the Southern Constellations

A free workbook ideal for learning all the constellations visible from the southern hemisphere, and for discovering the brighter deep sky objects on your own.

2009 January 08

Deep Sky Explorer Atlas

The Deep Sky Explorer's Atlas consists of 30 wide-field star charts, from the south pole to declination +45°, showing all stars down to 8th magnitude and over 1 000 deep sky objects. Ideal for those who have mastered the more basic Discover! atlas.

2006 October 28

Top 100 southern deep sky objects

Hand-picked and collected together in a single list for the first time are the 100 best galaxies, star clusters and nebulae visible in the southern skies.

2009 October 26

Sutherland webcams and weather

SALT cam

SAAO-Sutherland cam

SAAO-Sutherland weather info

2007 February 02

Southern African Dark Sky Guide

Where to go in Southern Africa to find a dark observing spot (or build your new observatory).

2007 January 12

Finding the Jewel Box

Just off the tip of the short arm of Crux, the Southern Cross, lies the famous open star cluster nicknamed the Jewel Box. This quick "how to" shows you the way.

2006 March 02

Seeing What Isn't There: The joy of observing dark nebulae

Tim Cooper recently spotted an intruiging dark nebula.