The Magic of Meteors: Shooting Stars, Fireballs, and Cosmic Debris

Have you ever gazed at the inky expanse of a clear night sky and witnessed a fleeting streak of light, a "shooting star" gracefully slicing through the darkness? It's a magical moment, a reminder of the vast universe surrounding us. But what exactly are these celestial sparklers, and when's the best time to catch them? Meteors—those breathtaking "shooting stars"—are among the most accessible and awe-inspiring astronomical phenomena. Let's explore what they are, their origins, and why they illuminate the night.

Why Do Some Meteors Glow Different Colors?

As a meteoroid plunges into Earth's atmosphere at incredible speeds, friction with the air molecules generates intense heat. This heat causes the meteoroid to vaporize, and the atoms within it become excited. When these excited atoms return to their normal energy state, they emit light at specific wavelengths, which we perceive as different colors. Think of it like a cosmic fireworks display! The colour depends on two things:

1. Chemical Composition

When a meteoroid burns up, its minerals ionize the air, creating different hues:

Yellow/Orange - Sodium

Yellow: Can also be sodium, but sometimes iron.

Green - Magnesium, Nickel

Blue - Ionized Calcium

Red - Atmospheric Nitrogen & Oxygen

2. Speed & Temperature

• Faster meteors (like those from the Perseid shower) burn hotter and often appear white or blue.

• Slower meteors (like the Leonids) may glow red or orange.

What Is a Meteor?

A meteor, often called a shooting star or falling star, is the flash of light we see when a small piece of space debris (a meteoroid) burns up as it enters Earth's atmosphere due to friction.

• Meteoroid: A tiny rock or dust particle floating in space (usually from comets or asteroids).

• Meteor: The bright streak of light produced as the meteoroid vaporizes.

• Meteorite: If a meteoroid survives its fiery descent and hits the ground, it earns this name.

Most meteors are caused by particles no larger than a grain of sand, yet they create dazzling displays as they disintegrate at speeds of 30,000 to 160,000 mph!

Earth’s Rotation & Orbit: Imagine Earth as a car driving through rain—the windshield (the side facing forward) catches more raindrops than the rear window.

• Before Midnight: You’re on Earth’s "trailing" side, so only fast-moving meteors can catch up.

• After Midnight: You’re on the "leading" side, plowing directly into space debris, resulting in more frequent and brighter meteors.

Fireballs & Bolides: When Meteors Put on a Show

While most shooting stars are caused by tiny dust grains, a more spectacular event occurs when a larger meteoroid, typically pebble-sized or bigger, slams into our atmosphere. The increased mass and speed generate significantly more energy, resulting in an ultra-bright fireball.Occasionally, a larger meteoroid (pebble-sized or bigger) enters the atmosphere, creating an ultra-bright fireball.

• Fireball: A meteor brighter than Venus (can even cast shadows!).

• Bolide: A fireball that explodes (sometimes with a sonic boom).

Busting the Myth: Shooting Stars Aren't Dying Stars

Shooting stars have nothing to do with actual stars. Stars are enormous, light-years away. What we see is a tiny particle, often no bigger than a grain of dust (called a meteoroid), burning up in our atmosphere due to friction.

• Stars (like our Sun) are massive, distant balls of plasma.

• Meteors are tiny space rocks burning up in our atmosphere—some as small as a grain of dust!

So, the next time you make a wish upon a shooting star, remember that you're wishing on a tiny speck of cosmic dust making its dramatic, albeit brief, entrance into our world.

PHOTO: Simon Waldram @fuerteshoot

Meteorites: When Space Rocks Reach Earth

Few meteoroids survive their plunge to Earth, but those that do become meteorites. There are three main types:

1. Stony (Chondrites) – Most common, made of silicate minerals.

2. Iron – Dense, metallic, often from asteroid cores.

3. Stony-Iron – A rare mix of both.

10 of the most famous meteorites in history, known for scientific importance, size, or dramatic falls:

Murchison Meteorite (Life’s Building Blocks)

Location: Victoria, Australia
Weight: ~100 kg
Fall: 1969
Type: CM2 Carbonaceous Chondrite
Key Discovery: Contains 70+ amino acids (some not found on Earth).

Sikhote-Alin Meteorite (Largest Iron Meteor Shower)

Location: Siberia, Russia
Weight: ~23 tons (scattered fragments)
Fall: Feb 12, 1947
Type: Iron (IIAB)
Impact: Created 122 craters (largest is 26m wide).

Canyon Diablo (Meteor Crater’s Origin)

Location: Arizona, USA
Weight: ~30 tons (fragments)
Impact: ~50,000 years ago
Type: Iron (IAB)
Legacy: Formed Barringer Crater (1.2 km wide).

Fukang Meteorite (Most Beautiful Pallasite)

Location: Xinjiang, China
Weight: ~1,003 kg
Found: 2000
Type: Pallasite (olivine crystals in iron-nickel)
Appearance: Looks like stained glass when sliced.

Nakhla Meteorite (The "Mars Meteorite")

Location: Egypt
Weight: ~10 kg
Fall: 1911 (hit a dog—allegedly!)
Type: Martian (Shergottite)
Importance: Proved Mars has water (contains hydrated minerals).

Hoba Meteorite (Largest Intact Meteorite)

Location: Namibia, Africa
Weight: ~60 tons (largest single meteorite on Earth)
Discovered: 1920
Type: Iron (84% Fe, 16% Ni)
Impact: Never moved—still in its original impact site!

Allende Meteorite (Most Studied Carbonaceous Chondrite)

Location: Chihuahua, Mexico
Weight: ~2 tons (fell as thousands of fragments)
Fall: 1969 (just before Apollo moon missions)
Type: CV3 Carbonaceous Chondrite
Importance: Contains pre-solar grains (older than the Sun!)

Chelyabinsk Meteorite (Most Dramatic Modern Impact)

Location: Chelyabinsk, Russia
Weight: ~1,400 kg (main fragment)
Fall: Feb 15, 2013 (exploded mid-air, injuring 1,500+)
Blast Force: ~30x Hiroshima nuke (non-nuclear)
Type: Ordinary Chondrite (LL5)
Famous For: Viral dashcam videos of the explosion.

Tunguska Event (Largest Meteor Airburst in History)

Location: Siberia, Russia
Estimated Size: ~50–100m wide (never found)
Event: June 30, 1908 (flattened 2,000 km² of forest)
Energy: ~10–15 megatons of TNT
Effect: Knocked people off feet 60 km away

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Meteor Showers: Nature’s Fireworks Visible from Fuerteventura

1. Quadrantids

When: Late December – Early January (Peak: Jan 3–4)
Best Time: Pre-dawn hours
Rate: 60–120 meteors/hour (but brief peak)
Parent Body: Asteroid 2003 EH1
Notes: Fast, bright meteors; often has fireballs.

2. Lyrids

When: Mid-April (Peak: Apr 21–22)
Best Time: After midnight
Rate: 10–20 meteors/hour (sometimes outbursts)
Parent Body: Comet Thatcher (C/1861 G1)
Notes: Known for occasional bright fireballs.

3. Perseids (Best for Summer Viewing!)

When: Mid-July – Late August (Peak: Aug 12–13)
Best Time: Late night to dawn
Rate: 50–100 meteors/hour
Parent Body: Comet Swift-Tuttle
Notes: Bright, fast meteors; great for warm summer nights.

4. Orionids

When: October (Peak: Oct 20–21)
Best Time: After midnight
Rate: 10–20 meteors/hour
Parent Body: Halley’s Comet
Notes: Fast meteors, often leaves persistent trains.

5. Leonids

When: Mid-November (Peak: Nov 17–18)
Best Time: Late night to dawn
Rate: 10–15 meteors/hour (but can have storms every ~33 years)
Parent Body: Comet Tempel-Tuttle
Notes: Famous for historic meteor storms (next big one ~2033).

6. Geminids (Best of the Year!)

When: Early–Mid December (Peak: Dec 13–14)
Best Time: After 10 PM
Rate: 100–150 meteors/hour
Parent Body: Asteroid 3200 Phaethon
Notes: Bright, slow meteors; one of the most reliable showers.

Meteor showers are one of nature’s most magical displays—reminding us that the universe is alive with wonder, even in our own cosmic backyard. Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or a first-time observer, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of spotting a shooting star streak across the night sky.

Exploring the Night Sky: A Guide to Stargazing Apps and Apple Watch integration.

As someone who loves exploring the wonders of the night sky, I’ll admit—it can feel overwhelming at times. There’s so much to see, so much to learn, and honestly, I often forget what’s even up there. That’s why I rely on stargazing apps to guide me. Unlike our seasoned lead Star Guide, who can glance up and effortlessly tell you the story behind a constellation or name every star in sight, I’m more of a novice. But that’s where these apps shine. There’s something truly magical about pointing my phone at the sky and instantly seeing the names of stars, planets, and constellations light up on my screen. It’s like having a personal tour guide to the cosmos, right in my pocket.

That said, these apps are a helpful tool—not a replacement for the experience of an actual stargazing tour. On our tours, we encourage you to switch off your devices, immerse yourself in nature, and simply gaze at the wonder of the night sky. It’s a chance to explore the breathtaking locations of Fuerteventura, disconnect from the digital world, and reconnect with the universe in its purest form. But when you’re not on a tour, these apps can be a fantastic way to continue your journey of discovery.

Let me be clear—I’m no expert, and I’m not here to declare these as the absolute best apps available. But they are the ones I’ve personally tried, enjoyed, and found accessible without being pushed into a subscription right off the bat. 

A quick note: I tested all of these apps on my iPhone 15 Plus and Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation), so my experience is based entirely on the iOS ecosystem. I haven’t tried them on Android, but I imagine the experience would be similar, as most of these apps are available on both platforms.

Below, I’ll walk you through the ones I’ve tested (not in order of preference)—Sky Tonight, Star Walk 2, Sky Guide, Night Sky, Stellarium, SkySafari, and SkyView Lite/SkyView.

Star Walk 2: My Most-Used App for Stellar Information

While Star Walk 2 isn’t necessarily my favourite app, it’s the one I’ve used the most because of its ease of understanding and ability to provide a general overview of the night sky. The interface is sleek, intuitive, and packed with detailed information about stars, planets, constellations, and deep-sky objects. Simply point your iPhone at the sky, and Star Walk 2 will identify what you’re looking at in real time. I love how it provides in-depth descriptions and historical context, making it feel like I’m carrying a portable planetarium in my pocket. The augmented reality (AR) feature is a standout, blending the night sky with your surroundings for an immersive experience.

Beyond its real-time sky mapping, Star Walk 2 offers handy features like Stargazing News, an Astronomy Calendar, and a section that highlights what’s visible tonight. There’s also a dedicated planet section for those who want to dive deeper into our solar system. While the app is free to use, there’s an optional lifetime subscription (currently €9.99 at the time of writing) that unlocks additional features—a small price to pay for such a powerful tool.

Night Sky: A Stellar Choice for AR and Apple Watch Integration

Night Sky is one of my favourite apps, especially for its stunning augmented reality (AR) features and seamless Apple Watch integration. The app overlays constellations, planets, and satellites onto your camera view, creating a magical experience that feels like stepping into a planetarium. What sets it apart is its customisation options—you can track specific objects, set reminders for celestial events, and even share your sky view with friends. It’s perfect for both casual stargazers and those who want a more personalized experience.

Apple Watch Integration

The Apple Watch app is where Night Sky truly shines. When you hold your watch level, it acts as a compass, guiding you to point at the sky. As you move your wrist, you can see the constellations above you. Tap on one, and it tells you what it is; tap again, and you get detailed information. I have added  a short video on the side to give you a visual guide. It’s incredibly intuitive and makes stargazing feel like a hands-free experience. I also love the gentle notifications on my wrist, alerting me when something interesting—like the International Space Station or a bright planet—is passing overhead.

Free Version Features

Night Sky offers a free version with a surprising number of features. You can track satellites (including Starlink), view constellation lines, explore mythology, add sky tags, check meteor shower forecasts, and even observe some deep-space objects. The app also lets you visualise the sky in different wavelengths, such as infrared, microwaves, radio, X-rays, gamma rays, ultraviolet, and more. If you grant camera access, you can view the sky in real time, blending the AR experience with your surroundings.

Astrophotography Section

One of the coolest features is the astrophotography section. If you give the app access to your camera settings on your phone, it helps you take stunning night photos by optimizing exposure, focus, and other settings for capturing the night sky. Whether you’re photographing the Milky Way or a meteor shower, this feature is a game-changer for anyone interested in night photography.

Subscription Options

For those who want to dive deeper, Night Sky offers a PLUS subscription. This unlocks advanced features like 1.7 billion stars with 10x zoom, aurora forecasts, AR planetary portals, and deeper customisation options. While the free version is fantastic for casual stargazers, the subscription is worth considering if you want to take your experience to the next level.

Sky Guide: Elegant Design and Insightful Features

While Sky Guide isn’t my favourite for Apple Watch integration, it’s still a beautifully designed app with some standout features, especially on the iPhone. Its clean interface and thoughtful details make it a joy to use, even if the Apple Watch experience is more basic.

Apple Watch Experience

On the Apple Watch, Sky Guide is fairly simple. When you first activate it, you’ll see the sun’s activity. Swipe from right to left, and you’ll get information about the moon and the International Space Station (ISS). While it’s handy for quick glances, it doesn’t offer much depth or interactivity compared to other apps. For me, Night Sky shines brighter on the Apple Watch. 

iPhone Experience

The iPhone app is where Sky Guide truly excels. It features a beautifully presented calendar of celestial events and curated posts that highlight interesting phenomena in the night sky. The app also includes rich mythology stories and constellation lines, adding a layer of storytelling to your stargazing. One of my favorite features is the ability to visualize satellites in different modes, including night vision, which makes tracking them easier and more immersive.

Subscription Options

Sky Guide offers a free version with basic features, but if you want to unlock its full potential, there are two subscription tiers:

• PLUS: This tier gives you 100x more stars, meteor shower forecasts, access to 10,000+ satellites, and stargazing forecasts.

• PRO: For serious astronomy enthusiasts, the PRO tier includes 1.7 billion stars, double and variable stars, exoplanets, and advanced UI options for a more tailored experience.

While the free version is great for casual users, the upgrades are worth considering if you want to dive deeper into the cosmos.

Sky Tonight: Perfect for Event Tracking

Sky Tonight is a newer addition to my stargazing toolkit, but it’s quickly become helpful for tracking upcoming celestial events. The app provides a detailed calendar of meteor showers, eclipses, and planetary alignments, ensuring you never miss a cosmic spectacle. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to navigate, and the AR feature is a nice touch for identifying objects in real time. As the name suggests, it’s packed with concise, practical information that’s perfect for both casual stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts.

Free Version Features

The free version of Sky Tonight offers a solid starting point. You can track three planets, one satellite, and stars, which is great for basic stargazing. The calendar view is particularly helpful, allowing you to see all upcoming events at a glance. It’s a fantastic tool for planning your nights under the stars.

Subscription Options

While the free version is useful, it does have some limitations. For full access to all features, including additional planets, satellites, and advanced event tracking, you can unlock everything with a lifetime purchase. At the time of writing, this one-time payment is €14.99, which is quite affordable compared to subscription-based models. This upgrade unlocks the app’s full potential, making it a worthwhile investment for serious stargazers

Stellarium: For the Purists

If you’re looking for a more traditional stargazing experience, Stellarium is the way to go. Known for its accuracy and realistic sky rendering, this app is a favourite among amateur astronomers and purists who value precision over flashy features. While it doesn’t have as many bells and whistles as some of the others, its simplicity and depth make it a reliable tool for serious stargazers.

Key Features

Stellarium offers an impressive array of features for a one-time purchase of €19.99 (at the time of writing). This includes:

• 1.6 billion stars: A vast catalog for exploring the night sky in incredible detail.

• Planets and moons: High-resolution images and detailed information about planets and their moons.

• Deep-sky objects: Access to over 2 million deep-sky objects, including galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters.

• Asteroids and comets: Track thousands of asteroids and comets with up-to-date data.

• Rise and set times: Easily check when celestial objects will be visible.

• Telescope and camera support: Perfect for astrophotographers and those using telescopes.

• Calendar and observing tools: Plan your stargazing sessions with precision using the built-in calendar and visibility tools.

User Experience

One of the standout aspects of Stellarium is its clean, no-frills interface. It’s designed to mimic the view of the night sky as accurately as possible, making it feel like you’re looking through a high-quality telescope. The app also allows you to adjust settings like light pollution levels, field of view, and time flow, giving you complete control over your stargazing experience. While it may not have the augmented reality (AR) features of some other apps, its focus on realism and detail is perfect for those who want to learn and explore without distractions.

How It Compares - Compared to apps like Star Walk 2 or Sky Guide, Stellarium is less about convenience and more about depth. It’s not as intuitive for beginners, but for those willing to invest a little time, it offers unparalleled detail and accuracy. If you’re someone who loves diving into the science of astronomy or planning detailed observing sessions, Stellarium is a must-have.

Why Choose Stellarium? Stellarium is ideal for those who value accuracy and depth over flashy features. Its no-nonsense approach and comprehensive database make it a go-to app for anyone serious about astronomy. While the one-time purchase might feel steep compared to free apps, the wealth of features and lack of ongoing subscription fees make it a worthwhile investment. Plus, the ability to integrate with telescopes and cameras adds a layer of functionality that’s hard to beat.

SkySafari: A Powerhouse for Astronomy Enthusiasts

SkySafari is another app that caters to the more serious crowd, offering an extensive database of celestial objects and advanced features that make it a favourite among astronomy enthusiasts. While it might feel a bit overwhelming for beginners, it’s an invaluable resource for those who want to dive deep into the cosmos. Whether you’re planning an observing session, controlling a telescope, or just exploring the night sky, SkySafari has you covered.

Key Features

SkySafari’s free version is already packed with useful tools, but the Premium tier takes it to the next level. Here’s what you can expect:

• Massive Deep-Sky Database: Access over 13,000 galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters, making it one of the most comprehensive stargazing apps available.

• Celestial Events: Stay updated on moon phases, meteor showers, eclipses, and other astronomical events with detailed descriptions and reminders.

• SkyCast: Get personalized forecasts for optimal stargazing conditions based on your location.

• Community Features: Share your observations, join a community of like-minded stargazers, and even sync your data across devices.

• Light Pollution Map: Plan your stargazing trips by checking light pollution levels in your area or elsewhere.

Telescope and Observation Tools

One of SkySafari’s standout features is its ability to control compatible telescopes directly from your iPhone. This makes it an excellent tool for amateur astronomers who want to take their observing sessions to the next level. The app also includes detailed information blurbs for celestial objects, helping you learn more about what you’re viewing.

Why Choose SkySafari?

SkySafari is perfect for those who want a more technical and detailed stargazing experience. Its advanced features, telescope integration, and massive database make it a powerhouse for astronomy enthusiasts. While the Premium, Plus, and Pro subscriptions are required to unlock its full potential, the free version still offers plenty of tools for casual stargazers. If you’re serious about astronomy or love exploring the night sky in depth, SkySafari is well worth the investment.

Premium Experience

While the free version is impressive, SkySafari offers additional tiers:

SkySafari 7 Plus: This tier includes an expanded database, enhanced telescope control, and more advanced observation tools. It’s ideal for intermediate users who want a deeper experience.

SkySafari 7 Pro: Designed for serious astronomers, this tier offers the most comprehensive features, including a massive catalog of stars, planets, and deep-sky objects, as well as advanced tools for planning and recording observations. It’s perfect for professionals or dedicated hobbyists.

While I’ve only tried the free version, the Plus and Pro options seem like they’d be worth exploring if you’re looking for even more depth and functionality.

SkyView Lite: Simple and Accessible

For a no-frills stargazing experience, SkyView Lite is a great option. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and perfect for casual observers. Just point your phone at the sky, and it’ll identify stars, constellations, and planets. The Lite version is free, making it an excellent choice for anyone who wants to dip their toes into stargazing without committing to a paid app.

Free Version Experience

I tried the Lite version first, and it’s fantastic for simplicity. The interface is clean and intuitive, making it ideal for beginners or anyone who just wants a quick way to identify what’s in the sky. It’s not as feature-rich as some of the other apps, but it gets the job done without overwhelming you with information.

Premium Version

For just €2.99 (at the time of writing), you can upgrade to the Premium version, which unlocks a host of additional features:

• Stargazing Events: Get notifications for celestial events like meteor showers and planetary alignments.

• Satellite Sightings: Track satellites, including the International Space Station (ISS).

• Today Widget: Quickly check what’s in the sky from your iPhone’s Today View.

• Night Mode: Protects your night vision with a red-tinted screen.

• Augmented Reality Sky Paths: Visualize the paths of stars, planets, and satellites in real time.

• Comprehensive Planets and Satellites: Access detailed information about planets, moons, and satellites.

• Constellations: Explore constellations with detailed overlays and descriptions.

Why Choose SkyView ?

SkyView Lite is perfect for casual stargazers who want a straightforward, no-fuss app. The free version is great for quick sky identification, while the Premium version offers enough extra features to make it worth the small investment. While the Apple Watch integration didn’t work for me (While the app claims to support Apple Watch, I couldn’t get it to sync or appear in the apps available on my watch), the app’s simplicity and accessibility make it a solid choice for beginners and casual users alike.

Why I Love Combining These Apps

Each of these apps brings something unique to the table, and I find myself switching between them depending on my mood and needs. I mainly use Night Sky for its Apple Watch prompts and AR features and help with taking photos at night. Star Walk 2 for its articles and upcoming event information, Stellarium for its detailed star map, and SkyView for its simplicity. I also enjoy the overall calendar and event tracking in Sky Tonight. Most of the time, I stick to the free versions, which are more than enough for casual stargazing. Together, these apps have turned my iPhone and Apple Watch into the ultimate stargazing companions.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of These Apps

• Use AR mode: It’s a game-changer for identifying objects and understanding their positions in the sky.

• Enable Apple Watch notifications: Apps like Sky Guide make it easy to stay updated without constantly checking your phone.

• Check for updates: Many of these apps add new features and events regularly, so keep them updated for the best experience.

• Combine apps: Don’t be afraid to use multiple apps to get the most comprehensive view of the night sky.

Whether you’re planning a night under the stars or just curious about what’s above you, these apps can turn your iPhone and Apple Watch into powerful tools for exploring the cosmos. Happy stargazing!

Marisa

A Brighter Christmas, A Darker Future?

Even though Christmas has passed, the festive spirit lingers here in Fuerteventura! Our Christmas tree remains proudly displayed, twinkling with lights. And the celebrations continue, as we eagerly await the arrival of the Three Kings on Dia de Reyes.

Christmas lights! They transform our neighborhoods into twinkling wonderlands, casting a festive glow on the season. But as we string up those dazzling displays, it's worth considering the potential impact of our holiday cheer.

The dazzling spectacle of Christmas lights comes at a cost, not just to our wallets (though those energy bills can certainly add up!), but to the environment and even our own health.

The sheer volume of holiday lights creates a blanket of artificial light, washing out the stars and disrupting the natural night sky. This "light pollution" isn't just a nuisance for astronomers and stargazers. It confuses wildlife, disrupts their natural rhythms, and can even harm their delicate ecosystems. Imagine a tiny insect drawn to a brilliant streetlight, circling and circling until it's exhausted and disoriented. Or picture a migrating bird, its natural navigation severely impacted by the city's glow, losing its way and struggling to find its destination.

Furthermore, all that artificial light at night can wreak havoc on our sleep cycles. It becomes harder to fall asleep, sleep quality suffers, and individuals often wake up feeling groggy and unrefreshed. This can lead to mood swings, difficulty concentrating, and even serious health problems down the line.

So, what can we do? Can we still enjoy the magic of the season without sacrificing our environment and our well-being? Absolutely! Here are a few simple steps individuals can take:

• Embrace energy-efficient LEDs: They use less energy and produce less heat, making them a much greener choice.

• Embrace timers: Set timers to automatically turn off lights when individuals are asleep or away from home.

• Shield your lights: Direct the light downwards to minimize light pollution and reduce glare.

• Choose warm-colored lights: They're less disruptive to wildlife and create a more cozy, festive atmosphere.

• Support your local "Dark Sky" initiatives: Join a local organization or participate in community events that raise awareness about the importance of preserving the night sky.

This holiday season, let's make a conscious effort to be more mindful of our lighting choices. By making small adjustments, we can create a brighter Christmas for everyone while ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.

Christmas. What are its origins? And what is the connection to the Winter Solstice?

The Origins of Christmas stem as far back as Pagan Roman times. The festival was called Saturnalia, an ancient Roman celebration of the God Saturn, which lasted from Dec 17th-23rd. The God Saturn, is usually connected with the Greek Cronos, but it was the Romans who actively worshipped the God, associating him with agriculture and abundance. Saturnalia was a raucous affair! A time where anything goes and the boundaries between Master and Slave no longer exist, implying freedom and the equal standing of all people. Gifts were also exchanged and gambling, drinking and playing games was seen as the norm. Nobody was to work during this time. The Romans saw it as returning to the Golden Age, when the God Saturn ruled over Earth. It was a time of Universal harmony and Saturnalia was a way of spreading that love. Other accounts are that it was more an excuse for illicit activity and that it was only the children of the Masters who served the Slaves. We will never know, but the similarities between Saturnalia and Christmas are undeniable with drinking, feasting, sharing gifts and not working as the main component

The Winter Solstice has been celebrated on the 21st or 22nd of December since ancient times. In the Norse tradition, the Winter Solstice celebrated the rebirth of Sol with offerings to Freyr. In ancient Persia and Iran, honoring Mithra is called Yalda. In the Ancient Roman pantheon, the feast of Saturnalia honored the Gods of Harvest and Plenty, Saturn and Ops. To them, the sun decreasing in visibility as the days of the year moved forward spoke of the dying of the sun. They believed that at the time of the winter solstice the sun actually needed to be reborn so that it could live another year. That’s why, in their religious superstition, they organized annual festivals that were held during the days just before and after the day of the winter solstice. These festivals were celebrations dedicated to the sun god, whatever name that god went by. December 25th, then, was celebrated with a feast to commemorate the birth (rebirth) of the sun.

In English, the world solstice comes from the Latin word solstitium, meaning "sun standing still". It seems to suggest a brief pause as the sun reaches its most extreme Southerly point (as experienced on Earth) before the direction of travel is reversed, resulting in the shortest day and longest night of the Year. On a spiritual level, it teaches us about resilience and hope in the face of darkness. The Sun will rise again, even after the longest night of the Year, bringing new beginnings and brighter days. It's a time to reflect on your inner light and the continuous cycle of growth and renewal.

So the origins of Christmas are based on pagan celebrations, that were slowly transitioned into more christian ideologies and later emerged into the modern Christmas that we celebrate around the globe today.

Capture the Magic: Night Photography in Fuerteventura

photo courtesy of Simon Waldram Photography

Photography can be about capturing the essence of a moment, weaving a narrative, and connecting with the viewer on an emotional level. As the saying goes, 'Without the darkness we can not see the light,' just because we can´t see it, does not mean it´s not there. Night photography shows us what our eyes can´t see. By embracing the darkness, we unlock a world of hidden beauty, where the stars shine brightly and the cosmos unfolds its wonders.

One technique that constantly captivates is long exposure, with its ability to transform ordinary scenes into something ethereal and dramatic. And what better subject for this transformative technique than the night sky? A realm of endless wonder and a canvas of twinkling stars, the night sky has captivated stargazers and photographers for generations. Combining these passions allows us to not only observe the cosmos but also capture its ethereal beauty, creating a truly enriching experience. Fuerteventura can offer  a stargazer's paradise—the perfect location to merge astronomy with the magic of night photography. Here's your guide to capturing the magic of Fuerteventura's night sky.

Why Fuerteventura is Ideal for Stargazing and Night Photography (and what to consider):

Dark Skies, a Valuable Asset: Fuerteventura's commitment to minimizing light pollution as a Starlight Reserve creates the potential for outstanding stargazing and night photography.

Weather and Atmospheric Conditions: While the Canary Islands generally have favorable weather, cloud cover and calima are factors to consider. Successful stargazing and photography require careful planning, including checking weather forecasts and being flexible with your schedule to take advantage of clear nights.

Diverse Landscapes: From volcanic landscapes to pristine beaches, Fuerteventura offers diverse foregrounds to complement your night sky images.

Planning Your Stargazing and Photography Trip:

Check the Moon Phase: A new moon (when the moon is not visible) provides the darkest skies for stargazing and capturing faint celestial objects.

Weather Forecast: Look for clear skies and calm conditions. Websites like Meteoblue or AEMET (Spanish Meteorological Agency), Windy can provide detailed forecasts. Always look up and constantly check, what was true in the morning may change by the evening. 

Location Scouting: Explore potential locations during the day to identify interesting foreground elements and ensure safe access at night. Inland areas away from towns: Provide the darkest skies.

Timing: The best time for stargazing is typically a few hours after sunset, once the sky is fully dark.

Here are some tips for capturing stunning images in low-light conditions:

Fast Lens: A lens with a wide aperture (f/2.8 or wider) is crucial for gathering as much light as possible.

Sturdy Tripod: Essential for long exposures, ensuring sharp images.

Remote Shutter Release: Minimizes camera shake for crisp shots.

Extra Batteries: Cold temperatures drain batteries faster, so bring spares.

Red Light Flashlight or Headlamp: Red light preserves your night vision.

Manual Mode: Provides full control over settings.

Aperture: Use the widest aperture your lens allows for maximum light.

Shutter Speed: Start with a longer shutter speed (e.g., 10 seconds) and adjust as needed.

ISO: Keep it as low as possible to minimize noise, but increase if the image is too dark.

White Balance: Adjust according to the light source (e.g., Tungsten for city lights). 

Focus: Use manual focus and zoom in to ensure sharpness.

Night photography can be a rewarding experience for photographers of all levels. ..

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Ready to take your photography to the next level and unlock the secrets of capturing the night sky?

Join us for our Night Photography Workshop in Fuerteventura this June, from June 22 to June 28 2025!

This workshop will provide a comprehensive learning experience, covering everything from the fundamentals of night photography to advanced techniques for capturing specific celestial phenomena. We'll delve into camera settings, composition strategies, light painting, and post-processing workflows.

Visit www.starsbynight.es/photographyworkshop to learn more and register.

photo courtesy of Simon Waldram Photography

....DECEMBER 2018 NIGHT SKY.. DECEMBRE 2018 CIELO NOCTURNO....

….

The month of December is marked by the Winter Solstice, which this year falls on the 21st. This was a very important date in the calendar of the ancient inhabitants of Fuerteventura, the Majos, who – according to the historians – met on the top of their sacred mountain, Tindaya's, in order to witness the sunset, forwarding the return of the rains and of the days with more light hours. And this solstice is also announced in the night sky by the presence of the most significant of the Winter constellations, the giant hunter Orion, which for the Majos was only a part of a bigger asterism called ' the Plough', directly connected to agriculture.

Another very important date of the month, and especially for the ones who love the shooting stars, is around the nights of the 13th and 14th, with the most faithful shower of the year, the Geminids, whose slow meteors can reach the count of 120 per hour in optimal conditions of darkness. The Moon will be in her First Quarter, so will set down early, leaving then a dark sky for the second part of the night.

These days around the center of the month are also the best for the observation of our satellite, which leaves always astonished children of all ages with her seas, her craters and her mountains, which we admire with great detail through a telescope in spite of the great distance.

Clear skies to everybody!

..

El mes de diciembre está marcado por el Solsticio de Invierno, que este año cae el día 21. Esta era una fecha muy importante en el calendario de los antiguos pobladores de Fuerteventura, los Majos, que - según nos relatan los historiadores- se reunían en la cumbre de su montaña sagrada, la montaña de Tindaya, para asistir a la puesta del Sol en este día, que marcaba la vuelta de las lluvias y de la época con más horas de luz. El solsticio está anunciado en el cielo de diciembre por la vuelta de la constelación más emblemática del invierno, el gran cazador Orión, que en la interpretación de los Majos formaba parte de un asterismo que llamaban 'el Arado', claramente conectado con el cultivo de los campos.

Otra cita muy señalada de este mes, y especialmente para los apasionados de estrellas fugaces, está en las noches del 13 y 14 de diciembre, con la lluvia más fiable del año, las Gemínidas, con meteoros lentos que sin embargo pueden superar el número de 120 por hora en las mejores condiciones de oscuridad. La Luna estará en el Cuarto Creciente, así que se pondrá pronto dejando el cielo muy oscuro en la segunda parte de la noche. Las fechas centrales del mes serán también las mejores para la observación de nuestro satélite, que siempre deja asombrados a los niños de todas las edades con sus cráteres, sus mares y sus montañas, que admiramos con gran detalle a través del telescopio a pesar de su lejanía.

¡Cielos despejados para todos!

….

....OCTOBER 2018 NIGHT SKY.. OCTOBRE CIELO NOCTURNO....

….

When October starts, Autumn is already here: the days are shorter and shorter and the nights get longer, making easier to enjoy the night sky in more convenient hours.

The mayor planets, accompanying us from the beginning of Summer, seem not disposed to leave us for the moment: while Venus and Jupiter are well visible but quite low on the Western horizon, Saturn and Mars are quite high towards the South and in a good position for an observation through the telescope. We should not miss the remarkable picture offered by 'The Lord of The Rings', so wonderful that it appears to be unreal.

The most brilliant part of the Milky Way is now slowly disappearing with Sagittarius into the Southern horizon, but another of her arms, Perseus's, is now the protagonist crossing the sky from the East to the zenith through the Summer Triangle, constituted by the stars Vega (in Lyra), Deneb (in the Swan) and Altair (in the Eagle); in this area we should not miss visiting the beautiful double star Albireo, a fascinating view through whatever telescope.

And the Moon will not miss her monthly date, once more in the second decade of the month. Her seas, her craters and her mountains leave us astonished due the wonderful details we can admire through a telescope in spite of the great distance.

Clear skies to everybody!

..

Cuando comienza octubre, el otoño ya ha empezado: los días se hacen más cortos y la noches se alargan, propiciando la observación del cielo nocturno en horarios más cómodos.

Los planetas mayores, que nos acompañan desde el principio del verano, se resisten a desparecer: si bien Venus y Júpiter se presentan más bien bajos hacia el horizonte Oeste, tanto Saturno como Marte siguen altos hacia el Sur y siguen en una posición muy favorable para su observación con el telescopio. No debemos perdernos el espectáculo que brinda el 'Señor de los Anillos', tan asombroso que parece casi irreal.

Y mientras que la rama más brillante de la Vía Láctea se va hundiendo con Sagitario poco a poco en el Sur, todavía nos queda por admirar su brazo de Perseo, que cruza el cielo desde el Noreste hasta en cenit, pasando por el característico Triángulo del Verano, que forman las estrellas Vega (en la Lira), Deneb (en el Cisne) y Altair (en el Águila); en esta zona no debemos olvidar visitar a la maravillosa estrella doble Albireo, que nos ofrece un espectáculo fascinante con un telescopio.

Tampoco la Luna falta a su cita mensual, una vez más en la segunda decena del mes. Sus cráteres, sus mares y sus montañas no dejan de asombrarnos por el gran detalle que nos ofrecen con el telescopio a pesar de su lejanía.

¡Cielos despejados para todos!

….

....AUGUST 2018 NIGHT SKY.. AUGUSTO 2018 CIELO NOCTURNO....

….August is the month most expected by everyone who loves the shooting stars. The Perseids, called locally Tears of Saint Lawrence, are back and around the 12th of the month they are filling our island's skies with their brilliant lights. This year too, the absence of the Moon and the presence of the 4 major planets will make this event even more special, if possible. As a long time tradition, the Antigua's municipality organizes a public and free observation in the Prehispanic village of La Atalayita (information in 928 549653), but you can admire them from all the dark places of the island.

And back to the planets, in the Firmament it's easy to find Venus to the West in the first hours after sunset, while Jupiter shines very high during most of the night. A telescope reveals his dark atmospheric bands and his 4 major satellites, bright dots dancing restlessly around the giant. From the East, Saturn will leave you incredulous when admiring his famous rings, and sometimes also a few of his more than 60 satellites. Mars, the Red Planet, destination of so many exploring missions, is also reaching this area following his apparent retrograde movement.

The Moon accompanies us in the second part of the month. Her mountains, her seas and her craters are all a surprise due to their sharpness and closeness through the telescope, leaving us fascinated every time we admire them.

Clear skies to everybody! ..

Agosto es el mes más esperado por todos los amantes de las estrellas fugaces. Vuelven las Perseidas, las Lágrimas de San Lorenzo, que alrededor del 12 de este mes llenan los cielos de nuestra isla con sus brillantes destellos. Este año, la ausencia de Luna y la presencia de los 4 planetas mayores en el cielo nocturno hará de este evento algo aún más especial. Como ya es tradición, el Ayuntamiento de Antigua organiza una observación pública y gratuita en el Poblado Prehispánico de la Atalayita (información en el 928 549653), pero el espectáculo podrá admirarse desde todos los sitios oscuros de la isla.

Y volviendo a los planetas, en el Firmamento destaca Venus, que se pone bastante pronto en el Oeste, así como Júpiter, que brilla muy alto en el cielo ya a la caída de la noche. El telescopio nos revelará sus bandas atmosféricas oscuras y sus 4 satélites mayores, unos puntos brillantes que danzan incansablemente a su alrededor. Cada vez más alto en el Este, Saturno deja a todo el mundo admirado al contemplar sus anillos, con frecuencia también acompañados por algunos de sus más de 60 satélites. También Marte, el Planeta Rojo destino de tantos programas de exploración, va acercándose a esta zona en su aparente movimiento retrógrado.

La Luna nos acompaña en la segunda mitad del mes. Sus montañas, sus mares y su cráteres nos sorprenden por su nitidez y su aparente cercanía a través del telescopio, dejándonos fascinados cada vez que los admiramos.

¡Cielos despejados para todos! ….

....JULY 2018 NIGHT SKY..JULIO 2018 CIELO NOCTURNO....

....This Summer season, which is just beginning, is revealed as the great epoch of the planets. Although Venus is setting down earlier and earlier after sunset towards the West, Jupiter, in the constellation of Libra, is very high in the sky when the night arrives. This is the best season to observe him through a telescope: he will reveal the clouds of his high atmosphere, with their darker bands and the Great Red Spot, as well as his 4 major satellites, eternally dancing around him.

From the East, in Sagittarius, a yellow dot indicates the presence of Saturn, who leaves everybody without words while admiring his rings, and it is not rare that some of his more than 60 satellites are visible too. And Mars is now approaching Saturn coming from the Eastern constellation of Capricorn, in his apparent retrograde movement. The rovers Opportunity and Curiosity, have been exploring his surface for many years, and are helping us to understand his mysteries, such as the presence of water below his surface or the presence of methane in his atmosphere.

The Moon will also accompany us in the second part of July. Her mountains, her seas and her craters shine closely through a telescope, fascinating everyone who would contemplate them.

Clear skies to everybody! ..

Este verano que está empezando se anuncia como la gran temporada de los planetas. Si ben Venus se pone cada vez más pronto en el Oeste poco después del ocaso, Júpiter, en la constelación de Libra, está muy alto en el cielo a la caída de la noche. Es la época mejor para observarlo con el telescopio: nos revelará las nubes de la alta atmósfera, con sus bandas oscuras y la Gran Mancha Roja, así como sus 4 satélites mayores, puntos brillantes que danzan eternamente a su alrededor.

Desde el Este, en Sagitario, brilla la luz amarillenta de Saturno, que deja a todo el mundo sin palabra al admirar sus anillos, y no es infrecuente que se vean también algunos de sus más de 60 satélites. Marte, en cambio, se va acercando a Saturno desde Capricornio, en su aparente movimiento retrógrado. Las sondas Opportunity y Curiosity, que están explorando su superficie desde varios años, nos están ayudando a desvelar poco a poco sus misterios, como la presencia de agua bajo la superficie o de metano en la atmósfera.

Y también la Luna nos acompaña en la segunda parte del mes. Sus montañas, sus mares y su cráteres brillan a través del telescopio, dejando fascinados a quienes los contemplen.

¡Cielos despejados para todos! ....

....JUNE 2018 NIGHT SKY.. JUNIO 2018 CIELO NOCTURNO....

....In the beginning of June, when the night comes in we can admire the 2 brightest planets of the Solar System at the same time in the opposite sides of the sky: Venus, towards the Sunset, and Jupiter towards the Sunrise, higher and higher each night. In the next hours, Mars and Saturn are already appearing from the East, announcing the great season of the planets of this summer.

For our visitors from northern countries, the southern sky in June will be a big surprise: Fuerteventura's latitude allows us to admire the wonderful constellation of Centaurus in all its beauty, with its remarkable guests, such as the globular cluster Omega Centauri; it is the only one faintly visible with naked eyes, in spite of the incredible distance of 17 thousand’s light-years, a beautiful explosion of light through a telescope.

For the Moon lovers, the best days of June are in the second half of the month, with the First Quarter on day 21st. Her carters, her seas and her long ranges of mountains, visible with rich detail with a telescope, are always fascinating children of all ages.

Clear skies to everybody!  ..

A principios de Junio, a primeras horas de la noche, podemos admirar los dos planetas más brillantes del Sistema Solar en las extremidades opuesta del cielo: Venus hacia donde se pone el Sol y Júpiter hacia donde se levanta, ganando altura cada noche. En las horas siguientes, ya van apareciendo también Saturno y Marte, anunciando la gran temporada de planetas que nos espera este verano.

Para los que nos visitan desde el continente, la zona Sur del cielo de este mes va a ser todo un descubrimiento: la latitud de Fuerteventura permite admirar la constelación del Centauro en toda su plenitud, con sus admirables huéspedes, como el maravilloso cúmulo llamado Omega Centauri; es el único de su género que se atisbe a simple vista, a pesar de la descomunal distancia de 17 mil años luz, todo un resplandor de luz a través de un telescopio.

Para los apasionados de la Luna, la época mejor de junio es la segunda parte del mes, con el Cuarto Creciente el día 21. Sus cráteres, sus mares y sus largas cadenas de montañas, visibles con todo lujo de detalle desde un telescopio, dejan siempre fascinados tanto a los niños como a los mayores

¡Cielos despejados para todos!....

....MAY 2018 NIGHT SKY.. MAYO 2018 CIELO NOCTURNO....

....From the first hours of the night, the May sky is dominated by 2 brilliant objects: the planet Venus toward the West and the planet Jupiter towards the East. For the lovers of the telescopic observation, the second one, the giant of the Solar System who crosses the constellation of Libra, is more interesting, with his 4 satellites visible as brilliant dots rapidly moving around his equator. If the night is clear, it is not difficult to distinguish also the dark bands of the outer atmosphere of the planet, which hide storms of incredible size, bigger that our Earth. More to the South, the beautiful constellations of Centaurus and Southern Cross are peeping out of the horizon of Fuerteventura: we should not miss the opportunity to admire our neighbor star Alfa Centauri nor the fantastic cluster called Omega Centauri, both visible with naked eyes, but revealing their secrets only through a telescope.

May starts with the Moon just after the full phase, which will be present back by the end of the month. In order to enjoy the observation in her best days, we recommend to wait for the waxing phase, after day 20th in this month.

Clear skies to everybody!  ..

Desde las primeras horas de la noche, el cielo de Mayo está dominado por dos brillantes luceros: el planeta Venus hacia el Oeste y el planeta Júpiter hacia el Este. Para los apasionados de la observación telescópica, es más interesante este segundo objeto, el gigante del Sistema Solar que cruza la constelación de Libra, con sus 4 satélites visibles como puntitos luminosos en rápido movimiento alrededor de su ecuador. Si la noche es clara, no es difícil tampoco distinguir las bandas oscuras de la atmósfera superior del planeta, que esconden tormentas de tamaño colosal, más grandes que nuestra Tierra.  Mirando en el cielo más al Sur, las bonitas constelaciones de la Cruz del Sur y del Centauro se asoman al horizonte de Fuerteventura: no debemos perder la oportunidad de admirar nuestra estrella vecina Alfa Centauri ni el maravilloso cúmulo llamado Omega Centauri, ambos visibles a simple vista, pero cuyos secretos sólo están al alcance de un telescopio.

La Luna empieza Mayo justo después de la fase de plenitud, que vuelve también en la última semana. Para disfrutar mejor de su observación, es recomendable esperar a la fase creciente, que este mes se da pasado el día 20.

¡Cielos despejados para todos!....

....FEBRUARY 2018 NIGHT SKY.. FEBRERO 2018 CIELO NOCTURNO....

....February is possibly the most interesting month for the observation of the Winter night sky from the Canary Islands. With the constellation of Orion very high in the first hours of the night, it is possible to admire one of the most popular and most photographed objects of the Deep Sky, the nebula M42, a fantastic star nursery found in the sword of the mythical sky hunter. This same area is very rich of telescopic targets, such as the close Gemini and Taurus, starting from the many open clusters, one of the big views of this season, or other more exotic, such as the Crab nebula, famous remnant of a supernova explosion registered some 1000 years ago. 

While we are waiting for the big planets to be back at accessible hours, for the lovers of the Solar System the Moon is present as all months; her full phase is in the first days and then will come back in the final week. Her craters, her seas and her mountains, which a telescope allows us to admire from hundreds of thousands of kilometers, will always be a fascinating view for all people.

Clear skies to everybody!  .. 

El mes de febrero es posiblemente el más interesante para la observación del cielo del invierno desde las Islas Canarias. Con la constelación de Orión ya bien alta en las primeras horas de la noche, es posible admirar uno de los objetos más llamativos y más fotografiados del Cielo Profundo, como es la Nebulosa M42, admirable criadero de estrellas localizado en la espada del mítico cazador celeste. Esta zona, así como las cercanas de Gémini y de Tauro, es muy rica en objetivos telescópicos, destacando los numerosos cúmulos abiertos, gran atractivo del cielo de esta estación, y otros más exóticos, como la Nebulosa del Cangrejo, famoso remanente de una explosión de supernova registrada hace casi mil años.
A la espera de que los grandes planetas vuelvan a ser observables en las primeras horas de la noche, para los amantes del Sistema Solar como cada mes está presente el objetivo más llamativo de todos, es decir la Luna, en fase de plenitud en los primeros días de mes y que vuelve a brillar en la última semana. Sus cráteres, sus mares y sus montañas, que el telescopio nos permite admirar desde cientos de miles de kilómetros, no dejan indiferente a nadie.

¡Cielos despejados para todos! ....

....JANUARY 2018 NIGHT SKY.. ENERO 2018 CIELO NOCTURNO....

....The New Year starts with the Full Moon, a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a night walk along the beach during the Christmas holidays. However, in order to enjoy the Winter sky in all its beauty, we have to wait a few days more, when the most typical constellations of the epoch will acquire all their protagonism. 

The mythical hunter Orion, with his fantastic star nursery M42, is no doubt the most popular and easy-to-recognize, but we should not forget to admire the 2 animals accompanying him: the Great Dog and his very brilliant star Sirius, and the Small Dog with his aster Procyon.

In the Eastern Zodiacal zone, it's easy to locate the big triangle of Taurus, high in the night sky, with its yellowish star Aldebaran marking the eye of the bull, as well as Gemini with their twin stars Castor and Pollux, reminding us of the adventures of  these mythical twins. Not far from there, we can find the interesting constellation of Auriga, crossed by the Milky Way and rich in wonderful open clusters, among the most fantastic of the season.

Clear skies and .. Happy New Year to everybody!  ..

Este año 2018 empieza con la Luna llena, una magnifica ocasión para disfrutar de un paseo nocturno por la playa en estos días navideños. Pero, para apreciar al cielo invernal en todo su esplendor, habrá que esperar unos días, cuando las constelaciones más típicas de la temporada adquieran el protagonismo.

El mítico cazador Orión, con su fantástico criadero de estrellas M42, es sin duda la más llamativa y popular, pero no olvidemos de admirar a los perros que le acompañan: el Can Mayor y su brillantísima estrella Sirio, y el Can Menor con su astro Proción. 

En la zona zodiacal del Este, destaca el gran triángulo de Tauro, ya bien alto en el cielo nocturno, con la amarillenta Aldebarán marcando el ojo del toro, así como Gémini con sus brillantes astros 'gemelos' Castor y Pólux, que nos recuerdan las hazañas de estos mitológicos mellizos. No muy lejos está el llamativo pentágono de constelación de Auriga, atravesado por la Vía Láctea y rico en cúmulos abiertos de gran belleza, entre los más bonitos de esta época.

¡Cielos despejados y .. Próspero Año Nuevo para todos! ....

....DECEMBER 2017 NIGHT SKY.. DECEMBRE 2017 CIELO NOCTURNO....

....The Moon, reaching her full phase on day 3rd, enlightens the first nights of December, inviting unforgettable walks through the dunes or along the shoreline of the sea; however, if you would like to enjoy the best observing moments of our satellite - with her incredible craters and mountains - it is recommendable to wait for the next cycle, beginning in the last week of this month.

An important date around the middle of December uses to be the maximum of the Geminids, the most reliable shooting star shower of the last years. With up to 120 meteors per hour expected during the nights of the 13th and 14th. A good suggestion is to dedicate a few hours to the observation of this fantastic phenomenon from a dark spot, if the meteorology is favorable. A beautiful opportunity to admire also some typical winter constellations which are rising from the eastern horizon, as the unmistakable Orion, rich in celestial treasures such as its famous nebula - the closest star nursery - or the brilliant Gemini, with its fantastic open cluster.

Clear skies to everybody!  ..

La Luna, que llega a su plenitud el día 3, ilumina las primera noches de diciembre, invitando a inolvidables paseos por las dunas o a orillas del mar; en cambio, para gozar de los mejores momentos de observación de nuestro satélite -con su increíbles cráteres y montañas- es recomendable esperar hasta la siguiente fase creciente, que se da en la última semana del mes.

Un cita importante a mediados de diciembre es sin duda la fecha del máximo de las Gemínidas, la lluvia de estrellas más fiable en estos últimos años. Con hasta 120 meteoros por hora en las noches del 13 y del 14, vale la pena sin duda dedicar algunas horas a la observación de este fantástico fenómeno celeste desde un sitio oscuro, esperando que la meteorología acompañe. Aprovecharemos de paso para admirar las constelaciones del invierno que ya se alzan desde el horizonte Este, como el inconfundible Orión, rico en tesoros celestes como su famosa nebulosa -el más cercano criadero de estrellas- o el brillante Gémini, con su riquísimo cúmulo abierto. 

¡Cielos despejados para todo! ....

....NOVEMBER 2017 NIGHT SKY.. NOVEMBRE 2017 CIELO NOCTURNO....

....

Being already over the Daylight Saving time, November allows us to enjoy the night sky without  sacrificing our sleeping hours. In the first week of this month, the Moon is the protagonist with her full phase on the 4th day. Even with the naked eyes, we can distinguish darker areas (the 'seas') surrounded by clearer and whiter ones. A telescope can reveal ranges of mountains crossing her surface, craters of all sizes, islands in the middle of the seas and many other details that leave us astonished. A wonderful sight that nobody should miss!

As the big planets are not visible in this epoch, in the Autumn sky the beautiful constellations raising from the East draw our attention, being preceded by the bright cluster of the Pleyades. The Greek mythology tells us these seven sisters asked to be transformed into stars in order to escape from the giant Orion. In the Milky Way area nearby, Auriga (the 'big-driver') proposes his far but bright open cluster, as well as Taurus showing us his treasures, such as the Hyades, surrounding the brilliant yellowish star Aldebaran, marking the bull's eye.

Clear skies to everybody!  ..

Con la vuelta al horario de invierno, el mes de noviembre nos permite disfrutar  del cielo nocturno sin renunciar al sueño. En las primera semana del mes, la protagonista es la la Luna, que alcanza la fase de plenitud el día 4. Ya a simple vista se nota que en su superficie hay zonas más oscuras (los 'mares') y otras más claras y brillantes. El telescopio nos revela las cadenas de montañas que la surcan, así como cráteres de todos los tamaños, islas en el medio de los mares y un sinfín de detalles que nos dejan boquiabiertos. Un espectáculo que nadie debería perderse.

Ante la ausencia de los grandes planetas, en el cielo del otoño llaman la atención las bonitas constelaciones que están apareciendo en el horizonte Este, anunciadas por el brillante cúmulo de la Pléiades. La mitología griega cuenta que estas siete hermanas pidieron ser transformadas en estrellas para escapar al gigante Orión. En la cercana zona de la Vía Láctea, Auriga (el 'Cochero') nos trae sus bonitos y lejanos cúmulos abiertos, así como Tauro, que no quiere ser menos, nos propone tesoros como las Híades, que hacen de corona a la inconfundible estrella amarillenta Aldebaran, que marca el ojo del Toro.

¡Cielos despejados para todo! ....

....OCTOBER 2017 NIGHT SKY..OCTOBRE 2017 CIELO NOCTURNO....

....With the arrival of October, Autumn is already in progress, bringing longer nights and usually very low winds, all good news for the lover of the night sky. As happened most times this year, this month too starts with the Moon close to the full phase, a good moment to observe her surface with incredible detail  through a good telescope. At the same time, towards the south, a brilliant yellowish dot in the constellation of Ophiuchus reminds us that we are still in time to admire one of the highlights of our Solar System, the fabulous planet Saturn, whose rings are now in the best position in years.

Moreover, the Milky Way is still dominating the sky, in the nights without the Moon, more and more vertical in Sagittarius, revealing us some of her most hidden joys, as the Lagoon Nebula, a wonderful star nursery, whose light shines faint due to the enormous distance, or the brilliant Butterfly Cluster, much closer to our Blue Planet.

Clear skies to everybody!  ..

Con la llegada de octubre, el otoño ya ha empezado, trayendo noches más larga y a menudo sin viento, y estas son sin duda buenas noticias para los apasionados del cielo nocturno. Como de costumbre, el mes empieza con la Luna cerca de la fase de plenitud, un buen momento para observar los increíbles  detalles de su superficie con un buen telescopio. Mientras, hacia el sur, el brillante punto amarillento en la constelación del Serpentario nos recuerda que todavía estamos a tiempo de admirar una de las maravillas del Sistema Solar, el fabuloso planeta Saturno, cuyo anillos se encuentran en la mejor posición de observación de la década.

Por su parte, la Vía Láctea seguirá dominando el cielo en las noches sin Luna, cada vez más vertical en Sagitario, revelándonos a través del telescopio algunas de sus hoyas más escondidas, como la nebulosa Laguna, fantástico criadero de estrellas, cuya luz nos parece muy débil por la distancia, o bien el más brillante cúmulo de la Mariposa, más cercano a nuestro planeta azul..

¡Cielos despejados para todo! ....

....MAY 2017 NIGHT SKY.. MAYO 2017 CIELO NOCTURNO ....

....With the arrival of May, we are in the heart of Spring, with kinder temperatures, that invite us to enjoy the beauty of the night sky. Many constellations, which accompanied us in the last half of the year, are now saying goodbye till the next Winter, while from the East the ones which mark the new season are appearing: the faint and weak crab Cancer, the powerful Lion and the terrible monster Hydra, witnesses of the challenges of the mythical hero Hercules, as well as the beautiful Virgin, related to the calendar of the agricultural activities.

In this area, a brilliant yellow object draws strongly our attention: it is the planet Jupiter, the mighty King of the Ecliptic, the giant of the Solar System, whose atmospheric bands, actual storms of incredible size, such as his 4 main satellites, can be admired through a small telescope.

As in the previous months, the Moon is the protagonist of the first part of the month. Nobody remains indifferent when looking at her mountains, craters, seas or highlands. It is difficult to believe we are able to distinguish so many details of her surface, in spite of the enormous distance which separates her from our Earth.

Clear skies to everybody!  ..

Con el mes de mayo, ya ha llegado el corazón de la primavera, trayéndonos  temperaturas más suaves que invitan a disfrutar del cielo nocturno. Mientras vamos despidiendo  las constelaciones que nos acompañaron en el invierno, desde el Este se levantan las que marcan la nueva estación: el pequeño y débil cangrejo Cáncer, el majestuoso León y el terrible monstruo Hydra, testigos de las empresas del mítico héroe Hércules, así como la bonita Virgo, protagonista del calendario de  las actividades agrícolas.

En esta zona, nos llama prepotentemente la atención un objeto amarillento muy brillante: es el planeta Júpiter, el majestuoso Rey de la Eclíptica, el gigante del Sistema Solar, cuyas bandas atmosféricas, autenticas tormentas de dimensiones descomunales, así como sus 4 satélites principales, pueden ser admirados por medio de un pequeño telescopio.

Como en los meses anteriores, la Luna es la protagonista de la primera parte del mes. Nadie permanece indiferente a la visión de sus montañas y sus cráteres, sus mares y sus Tierras Altas. Resulta difícil de creer como lleguemos a ver tantos detalles de su superficie, a pesar de la enorme distancia que nos separa.

¡Cielos despejados para todo!

....

....MARCH 2017 NIGHT SKY.. MARZO 2017 CIELO NOCTURNO ....

....As occurs every year, March is taking us into Spring. The nights are getting shorter day by day, until on the 20th, the date of the Equinox in 2017, the duration of the day is the same as the night, becoming longer in the following 6 months.

In the beginning of March the typical constellations of winter, such as Orion, the Great Dog and Gemini, are still very high in the night sky, allowing us to admire their precious treasures, like the fascinating Orion Nebula, the closest nursery of stars, the multiple system of Sigma, in the same area, or the glorious cluster M35, in the Twins. But from the East new and interesting objects are now appearing, such as the Lion and the Big Dipper -which in the last months had disappeared from our skies- messengers of the great galaxies’ season of the next months.

The planet Jupiter is finally back, appearing earlier every day towards the East horizon, balancing the protagonism of Venus, setting down early in the West. His satellites, dark bands and clear zones offer us, through a telescope a beautiful view we should not miss the opportunity to admire.

As we are already accustomed to this year, the Moon is the protagonist of the first part of the month. Nobody remains indifferent when looking at her mountains, craters, seas or highlands: in spite of the enormous distance, these details are clearly visible and really impressive.

Clear skies to everybody!

..Como todos los años, el mes de marzo nos trae la primavera: las noches se van haciendo cada día más cortas, hasta que el día 20, fecha del equinoccio de primavera en este 2017, la duración del día iguala a la de la noche, para después superarla en los 6 meses siguientes.

A principios de marzo, las constelaciones más populares del invierno, como Orión, el Can Mayor y Gémini, siguen bien altas en el cielo vespertino, permitiéndonos seguir contemplando sus más preciados tesoros, como la fascinante Nebulosa de Orión, el más próximo criadero de estrellas, el sistema múltiple de Sigma, en la misma área, o el glorioso cúmulo M35, en los Gemelos.

Pero en el Este ya van apareciendo nuevos e interesantes asterismos, tal como el León y la Osa Mayor -que durante unos meses había desaparecido de nuestro cielo- mensajeros de la gran temporada de galaxias que nos espera a partir de un mes.

También el planeta Júpiter vuelve a  aparecer en el horizonte Este, quitando el protagonismo a Venus, que se pone temprano en el Oeste. Sus satélites, sus bandas y sus zonas claras nos ofrecen a través del telescopio un espectáculo maravilloso, que no debemos perder la ocasión de admirar.

Como va siendo costumbre en este año, la Luna es la protagonista de la primera parte del mes. Nadie permanece indiferente a la visión de sus montañas y sus cráteres, sus mares y sus Tierras Altas: sus impresionantes detalles nos dejan asombrados, a pesar de la enorme distancia que nos separa.

¡Cielos despejados para todo!

....

....FEBRAURY 2017 NIGHT SKY..FEBRERO 2017 CIELO NOCTURNO....

....The long February nights offer us the opportunity to admire the winter sky in its best moment. The most typical constellations of this epoch of the year, Orion and Gemini, are already high in the sky in the first hours of the night, showing us their precious treasures. A good telescope allows us to go deeper into their secrets, such as the Orion Nebula (M42), a wonderful star nursery located at about 1500 light-years from us, or the rich Gemini cluster, not far from the bright multiple-star system of Castor. On the other side of the sky, it is still possible to admire the Andromeda galaxy, a very big but blurry object due to the incredible distance of more than 2 million light-years from our Earth.

After sunset, the planets Mars and Venus shine bright to the West in the early hours, while Jupiter starts crossing the sky from the East after midnight.

The Moon is the big protagonist of the sky in the first part of February. We should not miss the opportunity to admire her with a number of magnifications: she will reveal her big seas with their islands, her long chains of mountains and her enormous and deep craters. In spite of the distance of some 250.000 miles, the Moon shows us incredible details of her surface through our telescopes.

Clear skies to everybody!   
..

Las largas noches de febrero nos ofrecen la ocasión de admirar el cielo del invierno en todo su esplendor. Las constelaciones más características de esta época, como Orión y Gémini, ya se encuentran muy altas en las primeras horas de la noche, enseñándonos sus preciados tesoros. Un buen telescopio nos permite escudriñar sus secretos, como la Nebulosa de Orión (M42), fantástico criadero de estrellas a unos 1500 años luz de nosotros, o el riquísimo cúmulo de Gémini(M35), no lejos de la brillante estrella múltiple Cástor. También al otro lado del cielo es posible admirar a la galaxia de Andrómeda (M31), que se nos presenta como un objeto magnífico pero débil y borroso, debido a la increíble distancia de más de 2 millones de años luz desde la Tierra.

Después del ocaso, los planetas Marte y Venus siguen resistiéndose a ponerse en el Oeste, mientras que en la parte opuesta del cielo Júpiter se levanta pasada la medianoche.

La Luna es la gran protagonista de la primera parte del cielo de febrero. No debemos perdernos la oportunidad de observarla con unos cuantos aumentos: nos desvelará los  misterios de sus mares y sus islas, sus cordilleras de montañas y sus enormes y profundos cráteres. A pesar de los 400.000 Km que nos separan, la Luna nunca deja de sorprendernos por la cantidad de detalles que podemos apreciar con nuestros telescopios.

¡Cielos despejados para todos!  

....

CONVERSATION WITH ANDY, CARLY AND MARISA

I had a great email conversation with photography enthusiast Andy Bailey the other week that i had to share his questions with our resident photographer Carly Higgins and here were our  answers: 

MARISA AND ANDY

I sell a lot of full spectrum cameras to astrophotographers but I have never been able to use one here in the uk due to light pollution. 

1) would I need to use a full spectrum camera or would a unmodified one be ok?

2) where is the closest point to corralejo where I could capture the Milky Way.  Could I achieve this in a single image or would I need to stack several shots?

3) I understand that at around 28mm I could use a maximum exposure of around 30 seconds. Does that sound right?

Could you advise what settings you would use?

I have various compact, bridge and dslr camera to choose from but would like to carry something practical and as cheap as possible. 

Hi Andy

You don't have to use a full spectrum camera. Most of our photos are taken with dslr's. As a collective we own full frame Canon body's and 3/4sensor bodies. Our previous photographer and the founder are Nikon lovers. As you can see from our website: www.starsbynight.es and Instagram account: instagram.com/starsbynightfv/ you can still produce amazing photos with basic equipment. 

We are very lucky in Fuerteventura that you don't have to go too far out to see the milky way or to see stars at night. We do observations just 5mins away from the RIU hotel near the dunes which is about 10min drive from the centre of Corralejo. You won't really see the Milky way in April. From July onwards we have a good view but September/October are the best months to see it with with the naked eye. Yes, you can take a photo of this in a single image. 

As for your 28mm lens... well that depends if its a full frame, APSC or Micro4/3  camera, what fstop of your lens ( this will change the light qualities depending on what sensor size you have)? What iso? as a general rule and depending on what you are shooting - be it milky way or stars in general, or light/star trails  you would be looking at anything from minimum of 20sec-30secs for a night photo ( depending on what you are photographing). 

If you are specifically looking at taking night time photos i  would recommend bringing a dslr with the widest and brightest lens you have. If this is not what you have then a good start would be something with a lens that is f4 and/or brighter (f2.8, f2, f1.8, f1.2 - are nice to play with). Yet you can still take a good quality photo with even a standard 18-55 kit lens if its only milky way that you want to shoot. 

CARLY AND ANDY

"Have you ever tried using a Ricoh theta S fir astrophography"

No I have never tried 360 degree photography

"The Milky Way is the object that I wanted to try and capture. I have several apps on my phone to help track it. I guess planets and nebulas would potential need longer exposures and equatorial mount. " 

You can capture images of the planets (looking like stars) using only a DSLR and actually as some are very bright you don't need a long exposure, but If you are looking to take more deep space images yes you would need a very long exposure so an equatorial mount or tracker of some kind would be essential.

"This is the style of photo I'd like to achieve. Astroscape!  Is the following a series of images (foreground / background) or still just the one?"( see above picture for reference)

This is all one image in camera, where possible I prefer to do this and reduce processing time

"If it's easy to explain how would you achieve the above image? "

This image is just a single exposure of 15s at f/2.8 and ISO 2000 and would be very easy for even a beginner to take, its the kind of image we will learn to take on workshops. It was a beautiful clear night and the milky way was clearly visible to the naked eye. There is of course a little post processing in Photoshop

"Finally one last question, assuming there was a clear sky with no foreground subject like the windmill, how would you advise achieving the image of the Milky Way like it is in the image above (assuming I was using an APS C with kit lens)"

You would need to use your widest angle lens to get as much of the sky in as possible, if you have a kit lens I am guessing something like 18-55mm which on a crop sensor is equivalent to 27mm on full frame - not massive wide but definitely workable. You also want to use the lowest aperture possible f/2.8 or below if you have it. Using the 500 hundred rule (something else we teach on the workshop) you can workout how long an exposure (shutter speed) you can have without starting to get star trails. For 27mm I would recommend no more than 18 seconds. You will then need to adjust your ISO to get a properly exposed image balancing it against the other 2 elements of the exposure triangle Aperture and Shutter Speed. It would be really great to have you attend a workshop as I can demonstrate exactly how to capture and image like this and work with you to get exactly what you want.

To note: content has been edited slightly to remove places and dates. 

who is Andy Bailey: INFRAREADYUK & BESTGHOSTHUNTING