Astronomy

The sky is something you can see since the day you were born, but you still don't know what a star is, why the sky is light blue, or how many galaxies exist out there. I'm not the best astro-guy in the world, but I'll try to write some articles about this beautiful science. And buy your child a telescope if he is always with his nose up!

Since my everyday commitments force me to stay concentrated mainly on electronics, I have very little time to dedicate to astronomy. However, I will try, when possible, to write articles about this topic too!

At the dawn of time, astronomy concerned only the observation of big celestial bodies and the analysis of their motion; this science was also deeply connected to agriculture, farming, breeding, and orientation (and so Earth exploration and commerce). The first astronomy should be called 'astrometry' since it was based on the study of planetary cycles, season alternation, star and other objects mapping. Then, with the development of the first lenses and the definition of the basics of optics, the first telescope was built: this happened in the XVII century, thanks to Isaac Newton, who signed the beginning of space exploration.

Today, astronomy, astrometrics, astrophysics and many other sub-branches involve a lot of skilled people from different fields: electronics, engineering, biology, and chemistry, all of these sciences are actively required by companies that work on space exploration. Maybe you are not interested in any of them, or maybe you want to become the next Galileo, whichever is your aim, it is always good to start from scratch, creating something with your own hands, to better understand problems and phenomena that affect instrumentation and tools used in astronomy-related fields. Here you can find some examples.

A fundamental tool for any stargazer is a star chart or planisphere. Instead of relying on commercially available ones, consider crafting your own. Use circular cardboard or plastic sheets to create a rotating planisphere that accurately displays the night sky for your specific location and time. Add constellations, stars, and important celestial landmarks for a personalized touch.

A stable mount is essential for any telescope, and creating your altitude-azimuth mount can be both practical and rewarding. Repurpose materials like plywood or PVC pipes to construct a sturdy base with adjustable angles for precise celestial tracking. A well-crafted mount significantly enhances the stability of your telescope, allowing for clearer and more enjoyable observations.

Preserving night vision is crucial for astronomers, as exposure to bright light can hinder the eyes' ability to adapt to the darkness. Craft a red LED flashlight by attaching a red cellophane or film to a regular flashlight. Red light is less disruptive to night vision, allowing you to read star charts and adjust equipment without sacrificing your ability to observe faint celestial objects.

Dobsonian telescopes are known for their simplicity and effectiveness. Craft your own using readily available materials like plywood, PVC pipes, and mirrors. A homemade Dobsonian telescope can provide excellent views of the moon, planets, and deep-sky objects. Numerous online resources offer step-by-step instructions for building your telescope at a fraction of the cost of commercial models.

An astrolabe, an ancient astronomical instrument, can be a fascinating addition to your toolkit. While traditional astrolabes were intricate and complex, a simplified version can be crafted from cardboard or wood. An astrolabe can help you measure the altitude of celestial objects and understand their positions in the night sky.

Creating your astronomy tools not only adds a personal touch to your stargazing adventures but also empowers you as an amateur astronomer. The process of crafting these tools fosters a deeper connection to the cosmos, allowing you to explore the night sky with instruments born from your own hands. As you embark on this journey of DIY astronomy, remember that the universe is yours to discover, and your homemade tools are the keys to unlocking its wonders. Happy stargazing!