In particular, giving light to the wonderment and healing of the night sky, it is an overpowering escape during this modern age when we find our eyes glued to screens. For the seasoned astronomer to the inquisitive newcomer, it’s owned; it is bonded every time an individual gazes into the night sky. “The universe is sending us a message. It’s a good time to look at the sky,” says John Mulchaey, director of Carnegie Observatory in California. From supermoons to Saturn’s rings, summer months are particularly ripe for celestial spectacles. Mulchaey says the sun is very active these days and increases the chances of seeing the Northern Lights, even from some of the dark spots near D.C. A celestial event such as this, is a rare phenomenon and part of a small aspect of things that can excite stargazers.
Tools and Tips that You Need for Night
The app Star Walk 2 Ads+ is perfect for those who are fond of looking into the starry sky and identifying them. It can identify stars, constellations, planets, and other bodies out in space in real-time. Just point your device at the sky, and this app will show what’s above. All objects will be overlaid on the view of the sky in augmented reality, making it very helpful for most amateur and professional stargazers.
Make sure to get out of the city to experience these celestial events, Mulchaey says. “Get way out into the suburbs. Get in places where you have a nice clear horizon and where you are very far from lights,” he suggests. For those who want to see planets like Saturn, Jupiter, and Mars, having a telescope will up the ante, but with some added excitement, binoculars can provide equally amazing views.
Stargazing is not only good for the eyes but also benefits mental health. Lots of people turned to the night sky for solace during the pandemic. “When we feel stressed and anxious, physically our vision narrows; we get caught in our problems, and they can feel very big,” says astrophysicist and Zen teacher Mark Westmoquette. Gazing at the stars puts things into perspective, making our problems feel smaller within the larger context.
The OAD has recognized these benefits and has funded many projects to bring astronomy’s therapeutic effects to vulnerable groups, such as refugees. Hotels around the world have also adopted stargazing programs to enhance the wellness of their guests.
Capturing the Night Sky
For any of you budding astrophotographers, Frost Creek’s Conor shares a few useful pointers on how to do so. He did it with only his iPhone and a tripod: “Find a good, dark spot, mount the camera on a tripod to avoid blurring, and then change your phone exposure to let in as much light as possible.”
Whether you use ultra-sophisticated apps like Star Walk 2 or, conversely, if you simply lay down on your lawn with your old pair of binoculars in hand, looking at the stars becomes the perfect blend of wonder and relaxation. As Mulchaey eloquently puts it, “Get out of the phone and into the night sky. You won’t regret it.” So break away from the screens and look up this summer. The universe is waiting.