Articles by Mike R

Priest Lake State Park Idaho

Top 4 Dark Sky Sites In Idaho

Here are some great places to view the Milky Way and the night sky in the state of Idaho. These places are spread out over the entire state of Idaho to provide the maximum amount…


Eridanus

Eridanus

Located in the southern celestial hemisphere, the constellation Eridanus is represented as a river. It was one of the 48 constellations listed by the 2nd century astronomer Ptolemy, and is the 6th largest modern constellations. The constellation’s name was…


Space Weather Portland Astronomy

Portland Astronomy Resources

Home to more than 640,000 people, Portland, Oregon is the 25th largest city by population in the US. The greater Portland metro area has 2.51 million people, which is like around 30% percent of the…


American Museum Of Natural History gifts gift

Top 5 Astronomy Gifts Worth Avoiding

As we approach the holidays, people are starting to think of gifts to get others. Therefore why not provide some holiday cheer and help with the gift giving process. Laser Pointer A laser pointer isn’t…


Saturn Mythology planet

Top 5 Reasons To Observe Planets

The planets can seem like boring targets to observe to some; however, planets provide a rich history of observation and are great opportunities for observers of all ages and skills. Whether it be because of…


American Museum Of Natural History gifts gift

Top 6 Best Astronomy Related Gifts

As we approach the holidays, and people start to think of and buy holiday gift or gifts, here are some good ideas to get your loved ones. This isn’t an exhaustive nor exclusive list, but…


Lacerta

Lacerta

With the Latin name of “Lizard”, the constellation Lacerta is a very small constellation that was created in 1687 by the astronomer Johannes Hevelius. The brightest stars of the constellation form a “W” shape similar to that…


Windmill Oregon Cottonwood Canyon State Park Oregon Dark Sky State Parks Oregon State Parks Dark Sky

Top 6 Dark Sky Sites In Oregon

Here is a list of the Top 6 Dark Sky Sites within the state of Oregon that are well recognized as good locations to visit and explore. There are other locations that we could have…


Vulpecula

Vulpecula

The constellation Vulpecula is located in the northern sky, and is very faint. The name of the constellation is Latin for “little fox”, but the name is shortened to ‘the fox.’ There are not any ancient myths…