T he holiday season is here, and for us astro geeks that means toys.
In the quarter century I’ve written these columns in Astronomy and previously Discover, I’ve never mentioned the equipment I use. Since I love naked-eye astronomy so much, maybe I give the impression I’m not into optics. So now for the first time let me mention what I have, what I recommend, and how this whole business is a bit complex.
It’s true, naked-eye astronomy is awesome. Away from city lights, what’s more inspiring than the autumn Milky Way splitting the sky? When you think about it, the four greatest spectacles are all wonderful to the naked eye:
total solar eclipses, major auroral displays, great comets, and brilliant meteor fireballs and bolides. None requires any equipment.
Astronomy magazine subscribers can read the full column for free. Just make sure you're registered with the website.