Dan Brandon
Author's posts
Nov 25
The Orion Nebula: Window Into a Stellar Nursery
By David Prosper Winter begins in December for observers in the Northern Hemisphere, bringing cold nights and the return of one of the most famous constellations to our early evening skies: Orion the Hunter! Orion is a striking pattern of stars and is one of the few constellations whose pattern is repeated almost …
Sep 05
Spot the Stars of the Summer Triangle
By David Prosper September skies are a showcase for the Summer Triangle, its three stars gleaming directly overhead after sunset. The equinox ushers in the official change of seasons on September 23. Jupiter and Saturn maintain their vigil over the southern horizon, but set earlier each evening, while the terrestrial planets remain hidden. The bright …
Jul 04
Observe the Moon and Beyond: Apollo 11 at 50
By David Prosper Saturn is at opposition this month, beckoning to future explorers with its beautiful rings and varied, mysterious moons. The Moon prominently passes Saturn mid-month, just in time for the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11! Saturn is in opposition on July 9, rising in the east as the Sun sets in the west. …
