Join us on a tour through the celestial highlights of January 5th–11th. In this episode, beginners learn how to navigate the sky by finding Polaris, identifying iconic constellations like Orion and Taurus, and spotting Jupiter, Saturn, and Venus through a telescope or binoculars. We also share practical tips on using a telescope, star hopping, and protecting your night vision.

Finally, we journey beyond Mars to the enigmatic Asteroid Belt, where the dwarf planet Ceres takes center stage. Discover how this largest resident of the belt reshapes our understanding of solar system history, water-rich bodies, and the potential for life.

For more episodes and resources for backyard astronomers, visit www.startrails.show. Share the wonder of the stars with friends and continue your cosmic journey with us. Also, connect with us on Mastodon @star_trails, or on Bluesky @startrails.bsky.social.

If you're enjoying the show, consider sharing it with a friend! Want to help? Buy us a coffee!

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Star Trails is taking a short holiday hiatus. Learn about December’s celestial events, including Jupiter at opposition, the Geminid and Ursid meteor showers, and the Winter Solstice. Drew also introduces the Star Trails Book Club, featuring NightWatch: A Practical Guide to Viewing the Universe.

Plus, hear recommendations for favorite past episodes to catch up on during the break. Clear skies, and see you in January!

Check out these past episodes if you haven't already:

• Episode 41: A Night at a Star Party
• Episode 35: Stargazing on Vacation
• Episode 31: Pulsars

For more episodes and resources for backyard astronomers, visit www.startrails.show. Share the wonder of the stars with friends and continue your cosmic journey with us. Also, connect with us on Mastodon @star_trails, or on Bluesky @startrails.bsky.social.

If you're enjoying the show, consider sharing it with a friend! Want to help? Buy us a coffee!

Podcasting is better with RSS.com! If you're planning to start your own podcast, use our RSS.com affiliate link for a discount, and to help support Star Trails.

This week we explore the celestial wonders gracing the night sky from November 24th to the 30th. With the Moon transitioning to a waning crescent, the darker skies set the stage for breathtaking views of Venus and Jupiter, Saturn’s iconic rings, and the distant glow of Uranus near the Pleiades—a cluster tied to harvest myths and Thanksgiving themes.

We’ll look at the sprawling constellation Eridanus, Auriga’s glittering star clusters, and the enchanting Monoceros, home to the Rosette Nebula and the Christmas Tree Cluster.

Later, we’ll explore the fascinating “bubble” that encapsulates our solar system—a remnant of an ancient supernova. Learn how this Local Bubble connects us to a vast cosmic network of interstellar tunnels.

For more episodes and resources for backyard astronomers, visit www.startrails.show. Share the wonder of the stars with friends and continue your cosmic journey with us. Also, connect with us on Mastodon @star_trails, or on Bluesky @startrails.bsky.social.

If you're enjoying the show, consider sharing it with a friend! Want to help? Buy us a coffee!

Podcasting is better with RSS.com! If you're planning to start your own podcast, use our RSS.com affiliate link for a discount, and to help support Star Trails.