Stargazing: 5 tips to get the best view of the night sky

Eclipses. Comets. Meteors. Planets. Stars. Supermoons.

There’s plenty to see in the night sky — and even more so during special celestial events at certain times of the year.

Follow these tips from the Canadian Space Agency to get the most from your stargazing, no matter what you’re trying to spot in the universe.

1. Get out of town

Lights from buildings, cars and street lamps can dim stars and planets in the night sky. So move away from the light pollution to darken the sky and brighten the object you’re trying to see.

The space agency’s list of 13 great places in Canada for astronomy lovers includes B.C.’s Garibaldi Provincial Park.

2. Get in position

Find a clear spot, preferably one where you can see the horizon. Don’t let tall trees and buildings block your view.

3. Check the weather

Nothing will ruin your stargazing experience like clouds blocking the view! And dress warmly — nights can get chilly, even in the summer.

4. Prime your eyes

You can see a lot with just your eyes, but remember that bright lights will make them less sensitive. Give your eyes 15-20 minutes to adjust to the darkness and use a red flashlight, which is less blinding, to get around.

You can make one yourself by covering a regular flashlight with a red balloon or transparency sheet.

5. Tools you can use

A pair of binoculars will help you see details on objects closer to Earth, such as the moon’s craters.

A telescope, available at different price points, will help you see planets, galaxies and nebulae.

Bonus tip: Unless you are trying to see the moon, or an object only visible on a certain date, choose a night where the moon is barely visible.

The moon’s bright light and can dim already faint objects.

Source: Canadian Space Agency/Government of Canada