Features

Quest for the most distant objects

The search for the first structures in the universe has baffled astronomers for decades. But telescopes now on the horizon promise to shed new light.

Web Extra: Using radio waves to peer back in time

Astronomers are planning huge radio arrays to investigate the birth of the first structures.

Brian May: A life in science and music

You know him best as guitarist, singer, and songwriter from the rock group Queen, but Brian May is also a Pd.D. astronomer, popularizer of the cosmos, stereophotography enthusiast, and advocate for animal rights.

Black holes in our backyard

Black holes are the most astounding objects in the universe. And at least 19 of them lurk within the Milky Way.

Web Extra: Feeding frenzy of a supermassive black hole

A galaxy’s central black hole roars to life when a normal star ventures too close.

Wander the wonders of the King’s constellation

Cepheus contains enough star clusters, nebulae, and galaxies to keep you observing a long time.

You should observe the Full Moon!

Mountains and lava plains, rays, and a hint of color invite exploring a bright Moon.

Web Extra – Great targets await lunar observers

You’ll see something cool whenever you point your telescope at the Moon.

Astronomy’s third annual Star Products

Get ready to ogle some amazing equipment as we honor the 35 best telescopes, cameras, and accessories produced in the past year.

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