Free beginner guides
Start with a pattern.
A familiar shape is a calm way into the sky. These short guides explain three free Bortle Bounded lessons, what bright skies can hide, and one simple cue to take outside.
Constellation guide
Find Orion by its belt
Three close, evenly spaced stars make one of the sky’s most recognisable signposts.
Asterism guide
Find the Plough by its bowl and handle
Seven brighter stars in Ursa Major make a useful northern-sky pattern for beginners.
Constellation guide
Find Cassiopeia by its W shape
Five main stars form a zigzag that is often still clear when fainter stars fade from view.