🔭 How to Read the Sky
Orions Nebula • RA: 05h 35m 17s image credit Nasa • Dec: –05° 23′ 28″
Sky Coordinates for Beginners – RA & Dec Explained
What Are Sky Coordinates?
To find objects in the night sky, astronomers use a special map system called Right Ascension (RA) and Declination (Dec). Think of it like latitude and longitude — but for space!
RA (Right Ascension) is measured in hours, from 0 to 24
Dec (Declination) is measured in degrees, from +90° to -90°
This helps pinpoint exact locations for stars, galaxies, and more.
(Images credit Nasa)
🔭 How to Use Coordinates to Find Celestial Objects
Just like a GPS helps you find a location on Earth, sky coordinates help you find objects in the night sky.
Here are some real examples:
Orion's Nebula Image credit: NASA
Orion's Nebula
🌌 Orion Nebula (M42)
📍 One of the most famous and easy-to-see deep sky objects.
RA: 05h 35m 17s Dec: –05° 23′ 28″
➤ Plug these into a stargazing app like Stellarium, and it will guide you straight to the Orion Nebula, located in the sword of the Orion constellation.
Jupiter • Approx. RA: 01h 36m • Approx. Dec: +06° 00′
The Beehive cluster • RA: 08h 40m • Dec: +19° 40′
Vega (Star in Lyra) •RA: 18h 36m 56s •Dec: +38° 47′ 01″
Jupitet Image credit: NASA
Jupiter Coordinates
🪐 Jupiter (as of July 2025)
📍 Jupiter moves against the background stars, so its coordinates change.
Approx. RA: 01h 36m Approx. Dec: +06° 00′
➤ These are the expected coordinates for Jupiter in mid-July 2025, near the constellation Pisces.
(Check a live app like Stellarium for exact positions on your date!)
Beehive Cluster (M44) Image credit: NASA
The Beehive Cluster (M44)
📍 A bright open cluster in the constellation Cancer, visible with binoculars.
RA: 08h 40m
Dec: +19° 40′
➤ A beautiful sight in dark skies — easy to find when Cancer is high in the sky during spring.
Vega Image credit: NASA
🌠 Vega (Star in Lyra)
📍 One of the brightest stars in the northern sky — part of the Summer Triangle.
RA: 18h 36m 56s Dec: +38° 47′ 01″
➤ Vega is great for beginners learning to star-hop with coordinates.
Astro grandad Tip:
✅ Tip:
Use these coordinates in a free app like:
Stellarium Web SkySafari (mobile) Star Walk 2 (mobile)
Just enter the RA/Dec and the app will take you right there!
Stellarium labs App (image credit stellarium labs)
What is Stellarium-How to use Stellarium
🛰️What is Stellarium?
Stellarium is a free planetarium app that shows a real-time view of the night sky from your location. You can explore constellations, planets, star clusters, galaxies — and even fast-forward or rewind time to see how the sky changes.
It works on phones, tablets, and computers, and it’s perfect for beginners who want to learn their way around the sky.
To find an object using coordinates:
Open Stellarium Click the Search icon 🔍 Type or paste in the RA and Dec values The view will centre on the object instantly
It’s like having a telescope that knows where to look!
Astronomy Books, Facts & Learning Resources
Which astronomy books are best for beginners?
Look for guides that include star charts, observing tips, and explanations of planets, stars, and galaxies. Illustrated guides make learning fun and easy.
👉 See:
Best Astronomy Books for Beginners Reviewed
What are the most amazing astronomical facts I should know?
From black holes and exoplanets to cosmic distances, the universe is full of wonders. Learning these facts makes stargazing even more inspiring.
👉 Explore:
Amazing Astronomical Wonders, Facts, and Figures
Can you share more fascinating facts about the universe?
Did you know galaxies collide, stars live and die, and light takes millions of years to reach us? These facts add depth to every observing session.
👉 Discover:
More Amazing Facts About Our Universe
What was your experience visiting Kielder Forest Observatory?
Visiting a dark sky site like Kielder lets you see the Milky Way in all its glory. Guided tours and huge telescopes make it an unforgettable trip.
👉 Read:
My Visit to Kielder Forest Observatory
How can I stay updated on astronomy news and discoveries?
Follow astronomy blogs, newsletters, and social media for updates on celestial events, discoveries, and telescope reviews.
👉 See:
Astronomy Blog and Updates
