Astrophotography has become increasingly popular in recent years, as digital cameras and lenses get better at recording the night skies. As ever, there are some days when it is worth going outdoors with your kit... whether it is a full moon, an eclipse or a meteor shower, there are some celestial events that you can predict and plan for.
Telescope manufacturer Celestron has published a free colorful guide to the key dates to watch out for after dark throughout 2020. You can download this from Celestron direct in PDF form, and thanks to its clear, attractive design this could be something that you might want to print out and put on your wall.
With the first eclipse of the year having been and gone, the next things to look out for from a photographic point of view is the Supermoons in February and March – there the full moon will be particularly impressive (if conditions are right) as the moon is closer to the earth than usual.
In terms of the best meteor showers, you'll have to wait until August 12 for the Perseids.
A more extensive guide to the year's astronomical events is also being shared by Celestron from Astronomy.com – this 16-page booklet can also be downloaded for free.
Read more:
• Astrophotography: How-to guides, tips and videos
• Astrophotography tools: the best camera, lenses and gear
• The best lenses for astrophotography
• The best CCD cameras for astrophotography
• The best best telescopes for astrophotography
