Exclusive to members – Popular Astronomy Magazine
The March–April 2026 issue of our bimonthly magazine is out now. It is packed with interesting articles, but you won’t find it in the shops. That’s because Popular Astronomy is available exclusively to members of the Society for Popular Astronomy.
To get your own copy, plus all the other benefits of belonging to Britain’s brightest astronomical society, click here now to become a member of the SPA!
Latest News
Finding Orion
What’s the best-known constellation? The Plough (or Big Dipper)*? The Southern Cross? Actually, it has to be Orion, because unlike the other two it’s visible the whole world over, it’s very easily recognised and it has more bright stars than any other star pattern.
How to see the International Space Station this evening
The International Space Station is making a spectacular series of evening passes over the UK, continuing until the end of January 2026. You can view it from your back garden as long as you have a good view of the sky, so there’s no need to travel anywhere to see it.
Winter sunrises and sunsets
Everyone notices the times of sunrises and sunsets in winter in the UK. For months, the Sun has been high in the sky when all but the earliest of risers get up. But in December and January, many people get up and travel to work or school and back in the dark. Here are some facts about winter sunrise and sunset times that you might not know.
Why you should join the SPA!
Featured content
The Night Sky in April 2026
Here is a map of the sky as it will appear from the latitude of London (51° 50′) for April 2026, at 21h UT (GMT).
Our weekend courses
The SPA runs an annual weekend course where members can observe and learn together.
Choosing a telescope
If you’re interested in astronomy, it stands to reason that you need a telescope, and the bigger the better. But for most of us, there’s a lot of research to do before you can make the plunge. There is a bewildering range of instruments available, but the good news is…
Our observing sections
Whatever your interests, we’ve a section to suit you. Get expert advice and send in your own observations.
How to start stargazing
Learning the sky might seem tricky at first. There are so many stars, and unlike visiting a new town or city, the stars keep on moving around! But don’t give up! With a few tips and tricks, you’ll soon start to tell your Aries from your Aldebaran. The first step is to look at…
