How to Be an Astronomer in Your Own Back Yard

It's not so easy to travel across borders right now. But that doesn't mean you can't take a trip that's out of this world without ever leaving the comfort of your back yard. If you're getting a little stir crazy, our REALTORS® suggest you set your sights on the night sky to see the show the masters of the universe are putting on. One glance at the heavens is all it takes to get hooked on a hobby that can educate and entertain for decades to come.

• Get Started with an App
  There are many free apps you can download to your smartphone. One of the best is Star Walk. The app features augmented reality, event notification, and the opportunity to track both the ISS and deep sky objects. All you need to get started is a reliable phone and a decent pair of binoculars. It is a fabulous way to learn more about the stars and develop a deeper understanding of what you discover.
  
  
• Take a Closer Look at the Moon
  Sure, you've seen the moon plenty of times. But, have you ever taken a closer look? There are some amazing craters and features to explore and discover when you peer at the surface of the moon through binoculars or a decent telescope. Exploring the moon can give you a better understanding of our closest planetary neighbor and how it helps influence life here on our planet.
  
  
• Choose the Right Time
  Naturally, the fewer the clouds, the better. Check your weather reports and plan to go stargazing on days with minimal cloud cover and low pollution. This will help ensure the best view.
  
  It would be best if you also planned your stargazing evenings to coincide with galactic events. For example, when the meteors from the Leonids or Personoids rain down and shower the planet with fireworks.
  
  If going on a summer's evening, make sure to take plenty of bug repellant. Nothing ruins a beautiful view like a mosquito bite that won't stop itching. Similarly, if going in the winter, be sure to take plenty of warm clothing, hot cocoa, and hand warmers to keep you comfortable.
  
  
• Buy the Gear, But Be Careful
  You don't need to rush out and buy the best, most expensive telescope and binoculars you can find. Instead, buy good quality but reasonably priced items that allow you to get your feet wet with the hobby. Once you are hooked and decide to take it to the next level, that's the time to go for the gear that will make your fellow stargazers gaze and gawk at your setup.
  
  
• Go for a Drive
  In an ideal world, you can plop down some lawn chairs and enjoy the night sky right from your back yard. Unfortunately, many of us live in residential neighborhoods located not far from major cities. At night, the light and air pollution can make it difficult to see stars in the sky. If you find that light and air pollution are ruining your new hobby, head for the hills deep within the countryside. The further you get away from the city, the clear the night sky will become.

Contact us for more information about the many fabulous Mansfield and Ashland homes for sale right now. It's our pleasure to help you find one that has the ideal back yard, patio, porch, or distance from the city for an absolutely stunning view of the night sky.