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CNers have asked about a donation box for Cloudy Nights over the years, so here you go. Donation is not required by any means, so please enjoy your stay.

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Cloudy Nights Announcements

News from the Cloudy Nights team pertaining to the website and forums

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Happy Labor Day! - last post by Scott in NC

Discussion of CN Articles, Reviews, and Reports

A place to discuss the articles posted on Cloudy Nights

Forum moderators: Dan Crowson
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Review of iPolar hardware a... - last post by Polaris Australis

Celestial Events

Welcome to Celestial Events, a bulletin board for announcements about currently or soon to be observable astronomical events. Need a finder chart for that bright comet? Want to know when the next meteor shower will peak? Looking for suggestions on what to observe? Visit regularly for answers to all your questions about what's happening now in the celestial show.If folks want to discuss these events, the staff of Cloudy Nights invites you to start or join a thread in the appropriate observing forum. Celestial Events is for announcements only.

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June 2023 Celestial Calendar - last post by Dave Mitsky

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Beginners Forum (No Astrophotography)

A place for new astronomers to ask visual observing or basic equipment questions and report their findings.
- Advanced or specialized topics should be discussed in their dedicated forums.
- Beginning astrophotographers should read, and then post, in whichever imaging forum is most appropriate to their subject.

Forum moderators: DeepSky Di, GUS.K, nicknacknock, WadeH237
  • 35,202 topics
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Setting up a refractor - last post by therealdmt

General Observing and Astronomy

General Observing and Amateur Astronomy topics and questions that do not fit into our other forums. This includes unaided eye observing (satellites, weather, auroras etc) and non equipment topics (LASIK, observing sites, dressing for the cold/hot etc)

  • 14,042 topics
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Binocular Observing From St... - last post by Rustler46

Outreach

The official forum for the Astronomy Outreach Network. Post questions about Outreach, suggestions or even just publicize your Outreach events. If it has to do with promoting our great hobby, it goes here!

Forum moderators: Astrola72, CltFlyboy, mdowns
  • 1,331 topics
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How to Publicize Events? - last post by havasman

Light Pollution

While CN does not typically allow politics, this is one forum in which the discussion of legislation dealing with this matter is permitted. This is a problem that will eventually affect all of us to one degree or another.

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photos of telescope setup a... - last post by donald41

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ATM, Optics and DIY Forum

Amateur Telescope Making (ATM) and any do it yourself related activities. Ask questions, discuss and post pictures of telescope related projects, optics, telescopes, observing chairs, etc.

Forum moderators: cuzimthedad, Jared, Sean Cunneen, revans
  • 25,135 topics
  • 421,074 replies
Celestron and Meade SCT opt... - last post by MKV

Binoculars

"Best Of Binocular" Library, How to Choose, Equipment Minireviews, Observation Reports, Testing Aspects, Aberrations and Deficiencies, Books, Binocular Mounts, Observing Lists, Exit Pupil vs Eye Pupil, Binocular Vision and more

  • 21,198 topics
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20x binoculars for Moongazing - last post by aznuge

Binoviewers

Binoviewer discussion forum

Forum moderators: nikm, noisejammer, spazmore
  • 5,838 topics
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Just tonight - last post by betacygni

Cats & Casses

A forum for discussing Cassegrain (Classic Cassegrain, Ritchey-Chrétien, Dall–Kirkham, etc) and Catadioptric telescopes (Schmidt and Maksutov Cassegrains, ACF, Edge HD, etc).

  • 23,597 topics
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Mods For The SkyMax 180mm Mak - last post by planedriver

Classic Telescopes

Telescopes from an era gone by. The place to discuss older telescopes. Antiques, flea market finds, and scopes from grandpa's attic. From the 1780's to the mid-1990's - refractors, reflectors, and early SCT's. Discussing all aspects of restoring, collecting, and observing with older scopes. Discussion of 25-year-old scopes still in production is OK but please don't post newer examples of those, except for actual side-by-side comparisons to demonstrate detail changes.

Forum moderators: CltFlyboy, Jared, Sean Cunneen, mdowns
  • 17,324 topics
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Does anyone else feel like... - last post by Terra Nova

Equipment (No astrophotography)

A forum for discussion of visual and general astronomy equipment and accessories; a default location if you your topic does not fit into any of the more specialized equipment forums such as Mounts, Eyepieces, Refractors, etc.

Topics related to astronomy cameras and related imaging equipment should be posted in whichever imaging forum is most appropriate to that topic. These can be found in the Astrophotography and Sketching category.

Forum moderators: Jared, Katz, mewmartigan, MJB87, Wildetelescope
  • 40,486 topics
  • 457,176 replies
What 20th century gear do y... - last post by Jon Isaacs

Eyepieces

A place to discuss our favorite eyepieces and eyepiece accessories, barlows, filters, etc.

Forum moderators: FirstSight, noisejammer, therealdmt, Uwe Pilz
  • 37,696 topics
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Pentax XW 20 on 8sct or som... - last post by Stllrr

Mounts

A Forum to discuss all types of mounts and mount accessories - including computerized, manual, GEM, fork mount, parallactic, alt-az, DSCs, PushTo and GoTo systems.

Forum moderators: FrostByte, MJB87, polslinux, sbradley07
  • 43,635 topics
  • 511,545 replies
Which Tripod or Pier for Ma... - last post by Kolenka

Night Vision Astronomy

Night Vision Astronomy is astronomy performed with analog or digital devices capable of producing a real time view of celestial objects. This forum allows discussion of the equipment, its configuration and use, observing reports made using the devices, techniques for image capture, and the sharing of images the observer made to record their observations.

Forum moderators: DeepSky Di, nicknacknock, polslinux
  • 2,162 topics
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Good list of items needed t... - last post by robc51

Observatories

A forum for discussing the ins and outs of current observatories as well as sharing designs, and ideas. Manufacturers and Vendors are invited to attend.

Forum moderators: Astrola72, Dan Crowson, MJB87, nikm
  • 7,309 topics
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Deck Engineering (Backyard... - last post by mmalik

Reflectors

A forum for discussing Newtonian type reflecting telescopes (including Schmidt and Maksutov designs as well as Herschelian, Off-Axis, etc).

  • 26,204 topics
  • 443,594 replies
Cheapest coma corrector for... - last post by Jon Isaacs

Refractors

A forum for discussing refractor telescopes.

  • 35,077 topics
  • 795,852 replies
Upgrade from Vixen ed100sf... - last post by Jon Isaacs

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Major & Minor Planetary Imaging

This forum is intended for discussion related to the imaging and processing of anything in the solar system other than our Sun, Moon, and comets. Solar imaging discussion should occur in the target-oriented "Solar Observing & Imaging" forum. Posts about imaging our Moon should go in the target-oriented "Lunar Observing & Imaging" forum. Posts about imaging comets should go in the target-oriented "Comet Observing and Imaging" forum. Aesthetic Deep Sky Object Imaging should generally be discussed in the Beginning or Experienced DSO Imaging Forum

Forum moderators: Sean Cunneen, nikm, Professor2112, RedLionNJ, TimN
  • 50,543 topics
  • 350,938 replies
Maximum Barlow for DSLR - last post by Whereisclearsky

Beginning Deep Sky Imaging

This forum is intended for discussion related to beginning Deep Sky Object (DSO) imaging using any type of camera or mount. If you are interested in specialized or more sophisticated DSO techniques or are interested in imaging non-DSO targets please start your topic in a more appropriate forum.

  • 76,227 topics
  • 786,560 replies
QHY600 Artifact - last post by Yilia Yu

Experienced Deep Sky Imaging

This forum is intended for discussion about practice & theory related to prime-focus Deep Sky Object (DSO) imaging through a telescope using any type of camera. If you are a beginner or interested in more specialized types of imaging, please use the appropriate forum.

  • 60,180 topics
  • 522,235 replies
NGC 7293 Helix from Okie-Tex - last post by Joe F Gafford

DSLR, Mirrorless & General-Purpose Digital Camera DSO Imaging

This forum is for more advanced discussion about accessories, techniques or approaches to astrophotography with general purpose (not astronomy dedicated) digital cameras. Topics include (but are not limited to): advanced afocal approaches, minimalist & camping rigs, nightscape photography, accessories & modifications. Discussions involving prime focus imaging with general purpose cameras can certainly occur here, but are also welcome in the Beginning or Experienced DSO Imaging Fora.

Forum moderators: FrostByte, Napp, spazmore, TimN
  • 49,418 topics
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Need help fixing one of my... - last post by sharkmelley

Film Astrophotography

Discussions about astrophotography using film.

Forum moderators: mewmartigan, Uwe Pilz
  • 2,655 topics
  • 18,774 replies
Anybody have an old 12"... - last post by TxStars

Electronically Assisted Astronomy (No Post-Processing)

Electronically Assisted Astronomy (EAA) is the use of a camera in lieu of an eyepiece at the telescope to capture and view images in near real time. For the purposes of this forum, near real time images must have a maximum total integration of no more than 60 minutes and cannot be post-processed. The purpose of the EAA Forum is to give members a place to share their observing experiences, talk about the equipment used, and post images captured with EAA devices.

  • 9,534 topics
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Sharpcap failing Plate Solv... - last post by MunichAtNight

Sketching

A forum for the discussion of sketching stellar objects, and displaying user drawings.

Forum moderators: frank5817, mdowns, Uwe Pilz
  • 14,665 topics
  • 134,160 replies
First Hα sketch. Prominence... - last post by mitu0715

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Solar System Observing

A friendly place to discuss planetary & solar system object observing.

Forum moderators: GUS.K, gustavo_sanchez, Napp, Starlancer
  • 9,427 topics
  • 98,384 replies
Finally saw Saturn - last post by Masonry00

Lunar Observing and Imaging

A forum dedicated to the observation and appreciation of our Moon. Join us in the Lunie Bin and learn about the only world other than the Earth to bear the imprint of human feet. Images and sketches are most welcome. (Please limit the size of image files to 500K.)

  • 9,578 topics
  • 69,374 replies
Using a filter on a near fu... - last post by BucketDave

Deep Sky Observing

A dark place to discuss deep sky observing and observations

Forum moderators: BrentKnight, cuzimthedad, GUS.K, Katz
  • 10,426 topics
  • 129,313 replies
AL Galaxy Groups Observing... - last post by JimK

Double Star Observing

Double Stars, Rayleigh Limit and Dawes Limit; a place for observers with split personalities.

Forum moderators: AnakChan, Uwe Pilz, zombie1210
  • 4,401 topics
  • 46,552 replies
Astronomical League Double... - last post by eric_zeiner

Solar Observing and Imaging

Hot place to discuss solar observing and imaging topics

Forum moderators: GUS.K, gustavo_sanchez, Jared, Napp, nicknacknock
  • 40,012 topics
  • 301,292 replies
Whilte light image 24 Septe... - last post by Alan S

Solar Eclipses

A forum for discussion of all things related to the North American total solar eclipses of 2017 and 2024, as well as any other solar eclipses - events, outreach, equipment, etc.
***Note that the 2017 forum is locked, but is still available for viewing.***

Forum moderators: DeepSky Di, MJB87, nicknacknock, RedLionNJ
  • 925 topics
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Nikon 180-600 Z lens for ec... - last post by Bill G.

Comet Observing and Imaging

A place to discuss all things about comets. Both observing and imaging topics are welcome here.

  • 113 topics
  • 565 replies
10.5 Magnitude Comet 103P/... - last post by h2ologg

Scientific Amateur Astronomy

A forum where amateurs can discuss their contributions to fields such as spectroscopy, photometry, astrometry, interferometry, and radio astronomy. Astronomical objects of interest may include variable and carbon stars, pulsars, supernovae, AGNs, exoplanets, asteroids, and short-lived energetic phenomena such as GRBs. The presentation of quantitative observational measurements, techniques used for acquisition, and relevant ensuing discussion are especially welcome.

Forum moderators: GUS.K, mewmartigan, RedLionNJ, Starlancer
  • 2,090 topics
  • 16,755 replies
Staranalyser 100 request fo... - last post by topcode

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Celestron Computerized Telescopes

Discussion forum for Celestron computerized telescopes and mounts using NexStar and StarSense technologies, including CPC, CPC Deluxe HD, NexStar SE/SLT/Evolution, etc.

Forum moderators: GUS.K, nicknacknock, Wildetelescope
  • 18,579 topics
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A CG5GT that tracks through... - last post by KLWalsh

Questar Forum

A forum for discussing Questar and Quantum telescopes

Forum moderators: nicknacknock, zombie1210
  • 2,567 topics
  • 31,515 replies
Questars on eBay and Craigs... - last post by markmanner

Meade Computerized Telescopes

A forum to discuss advanced Meade scopes. Among them the ETX, LX90, LX200, LX200 GPS, RCX, and the LX200 ACF series.

  • 11,485 topics
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Starpatch 'no polar ali... - last post by OzAndrewJ

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Astronomy Clubs, Star Parties, Shows, & Conferences

For discussion and announcements of astronomy club meetings, star parties, astronomy conferences and other events.

Forum moderators: Dan Crowson, Napp, revans
  • 4,167 topics
  • 104,033 replies
Offer food...and they will... - last post by Alex McConahay

Astro Art, Books, Websites & Other Media

A place to share your astronomy artwork (non-photographic) and *non* commercial astronomy websites and discuss astro related books, magazines, charts, movies and TV shows.

Forum moderators: BrentKnight, Katz
  • 5,600 topics
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Astronomy and Science-relat... - last post by JackCornell

Astronomy Software & Computers

This is the place to discuss all things associated with computers & gadgets, both hardware and software (including PDAs, smartphones, tablets, laptops, astronomy programs and apps, Celestron SkyScout and Meade MySky devices, etc.) -- as they relate to astronomy.

Forum moderators: Napp, WadeH237
  • 11,342 topics
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List of Catalogs in SkySafa... - last post by Jon Isaacs

Science! Astronomy & Space Exploration, and Others

Discuss all science topics, particularly the sciences relating to Astronomy and Space Exploration. This includes all the natural sciences: Physics, Chemistry, Geology, and Biology. They can include applied sciences such as engineering and construction as well. Wherever the scientific method is used, you can discuss it here. As always, no politics, pseudo-science, crack-pottery, or anti-science.

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OSIRIS-REx arrival at Bennu - last post by JohnTMN

Space Rocks

This is the place to discuss meteorites and related subjects - including tektites, impact theories, and parent bodies. Got a question about collecting or caring for your meteorites? Ask it here.

Forum moderators: jerahian, MJB87, mdowns, TimN
  • 1,329 topics
  • 11,675 replies
What could this round inclu... - last post by mitchwFSU

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Cloudy Days & Microscopes

This forum is to discuss birding and other daytime or indoor terrestrial usage of optics, and related equipment; e.g. microscopes.

Forum moderators: j.gardavsky, Sean Cunneen, sbradley07
  • 1,725 topics
  • 23,917 replies
Olympus Tokyo SZ-III : opin... - last post by j.gardavsky

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Vendor and Group Announcements

A place for vendors and non-CN related organizations to post announcements.

Forum moderators: CltFlyboy, GUS.K, osbourne one-nil
  • 6,958 topics
  • 52,863 replies
AstroHopper 1.0.6 Release a... - last post by 88redstar88

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