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Often times people will ask us questions about astronomy such as "My kid likes astronomy; what type of telescope should I buy?" or "I love astronomy, but how do I get started?"

This is an attempt at answering questions like these. We don't have all the answers, but we hope there is something in here that is worth while for you in your search to become a Amateur Astronomer!

Resources for getting started in astronomy:

Buying a Telescope
Telescopes are relatively expensive items, so it pays to do your homework before spending your hard-earned money. Here's what to look for – and look out for – when setting out to purchase a telescope.

Web Sites for Beginners
Here are some web sites to help you take your first steps in astronomy, learn to observe the skies with and without a telescope, and make intelligent purchases of astronomy equipment.

Books for Newcomers
These half-dozen books are guaranteed to help you learn the sky and enjoy the wonderful hobby of amateur astronomy.

Public Observing Opportunities
Astronomy clubs and observatories throughout Illinois offer free public observing sessions that give you a chance to see amazing sights in the night sky. Here's where to find a public observing session in your area.

Helpful websites

To help spread the word that backyard astronomy is easy and fun, Sky & Telescope offers a free Getting Started in Astronomy pamphlet. It is available as a downloadable 10-page, black-and-white Adobe PDF file suitable for printing and photocopying. It comes in two versions: one for stargazers in the Northern Hemisphere and another for those in the Southern Hemisphere. Visit SkyandTelescope.com

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Since April 24th, 2008

Last Updated

08/24/2008

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