Читать книгу Astronomy For Dummies - Maran Stephen P. - Страница 9

IN THIS CHAPTER

❯❯ Joining astronomy clubs, using the Internet, downloading apps, and more

❯❯ Exploring observatories and planetariums

❯❯ Enjoying star parties, eclipse tours and cruises, telescope motels, and dark sky parks

Astronomy has universal appeal. The stars have fascinated people everywhere from prehistoric times into the modern age. Early observations of the sky led to all sorts of theories about the universe and attributions of power and purpose to the movements of stars, planets, and comets. As you look up at the sky, hundreds of thousands of people worldwide watch with you. When it comes to skywatching, you’re not alone. Many people, organizations, publications, websites, smartphone apps, and other resources are at your disposal to help you get started, to keep you going, and to help you participate in the great work of explaining the universe.

In this chapter, I introduce you to these resources and give you suggestions on how you can get started. The rest is up to you. So join in!

When you know the resources, organizations, facilities, and equipment that can help you enjoy astronomy more deeply, you can move comfortably to the science of astronomy itself – the nature of the objects and phenomena out there in deep space. I describe the equipment you need to get started in Chapter 3.