Observer Resources
We conduct regular star parties and outreach events to connect WASI members and the public with the wonders of the night sky. The second Saturday of each month is both our planetarium show, and a regularly scheduled star party at Bear Branch Nature Center. We also host a three-day star party scheduled around, generally, the new moon. Check out our events calendar for those dates.
Astronomical League
The amount of data available online is vast and constantly growing and can be a little overwhelming. A good place to start is one of the Astronomical League’s Observing programs. These programs provide structured observing goals along with resources to help you achieve them. The Night Sky Tools page has a number of observing resources and a monthly guide to Navigating the Night Sky.
The Night Sky Network
In addition to event information and outreach resources, The Night Sky Network has a variety of observing resources. The Night Sky Planner has a monthly guide to the night sky and links to other resources. Check out the “What’s Up: Skywatching Tips” from NASA JPL.
USNO Data Services
Rise/Set/Transit/Twilight Data
- Complete Sun and Moon Data for One Day
- Table of Sunrise/Sunset, Moonrise/Moonset, or Twilight Times for an Entire Year
- Rise/Set/Transit Times for Major Solar System Objects and Bright Stars
- Duration of Daylight/Darkness Table for One Year
Phases of the Moon
Eclipses and Transits
JPL Solar System Dynamics
- JPL Horizons Web Interface
- JPL Small-Body Database Search Engine
- JPL Small-Body Database Browser
- JPL What's Observable