Start here · Essential guide
Seeing Planets With a Telescope
What each planet looks like through a backyard telescope, which are easiest to find, and how to set up, choose magnification and get sharper views.
Stargazing & Observing
Planet Observing
6 guides, starting with Seeing Planets With a Telescope.
Best Telescope to See Pluto: Is It Even Possible?
Can you see Pluto with a telescope? Learn how faint it is, the aperture and dark skies you need, how to find and confirm it, and what not to expect.
How to Find Mars With a Telescope and What to Expect
Find Mars in the sky, understand why it is only impressive near opposition, and learn what surface detail a backyard telescope can show.
How to Find Saturn in a Telescope and See Its Rings
Learn how to locate Saturn in the sky, center it in your telescope and see its rings and moons, with magnification tips and troubleshooting advice.
Jupiter From a Home Telescope: Bands, Moons and Tips
See Jupiter's cloud belts, Galilean moons and sometimes the Great Red Spot from a home telescope, with eyepiece and magnification guidance and sharpening tips.
Venus Through a Telescope
See Venus's phases through a telescope, learn why no surface is visible, how to find it safely in twilight, and the best equipment and tips.
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Stargazing Basics 5 guides, starting with Stargazing for Beginners: Ideas, Gear and Best Times. Stars & Sky 4 guides, starting with How a Star Differs From a Planet. Constellations & Lore 6 guides, starting with Most Famous Constellations and How to Find Them. Deep Sky Observing 4 guides, starting with What Does It Look Like Through a Telescope? Real Expectations.