Astronomy Education & Learning Resources
Explore astronomy through presentations, observing guides, astrophotography, outreach materials, and educational resources created by the Bluewater Astronomical Society.
Explore Astronomy
New to the night sky? Start here. BAS has compiled the best guides, apps, presentations, and video resources to help you take your first steps in astronomy — from understanding the Moon and planets to finding your first deep sky object with binoculars or a telescope. Discover the best free and paid planetarium apps for your phone, tablet, and desktop, and get BAS recommendations for your first telescope.
Ready to go deeper? Whether you’re learning to star hop or hunting faint galaxies from a dark site, this section covers everything you need to plan great observing sessions under Grey-Bruce skies. Explore seasonal guides, Messier object lists, telescope recommendations, and the best apps and tools for planning your nights under the stars.
From your first widefield image of the Milky Way to automated narrowband deep sky imaging — BAS members share their knowledge of cameras, mounts, software, and techniques. Explore recommended beginner and advanced equipment setups with example budgets, capture and processing software tutorials, and the best YouTube channels used by BAS astrophotographers. Features a specially curated list of channels recommended by our members.
BAS is passionate about bringing astronomy to schools, families, and community groups across Grey-Bruce. Find resources for teachers and parents, Ontario curriculum connections, links to NASA and CSA educational tools, and information on booking a BAS school visit or star party. We welcome inquiries from schools, scouts, summer camps, and community organizations of all kinds.
Featured This Month
Stargazing 101″ Coma Berenices & Its Treasures
This beginner-friendly astronomy presentation explores the spring constellation Coma Berenices, including how to locate it in the night sky and observe several galaxies and deep sky objects visible with binoculars and telescopes.
Topics include:
- constellation mythology
- star hopping techniques
- galaxy observing
- binocular targets
- astrophotography examples
Presented during a BAS Members Meeting and Public Viewing Night.
