Are you fascinated by the Universe too? Then this is a newsletter for you. You might already have a telescope, or are maybe thinking about getting one. You’d like to learn how to experience more with it, but don’t necessarily want to trek too deep into the technical weeds. I’ll show you how I use mine to do what I’ve come to think of, playfully, as ‘Adventure Astronomy!,’ exploring a sky full of stories and amazing science, and discovering how these things relate to us here on Earth. My preferred tools are digital telescopes – the new ‘smart’ telescopes as well as camera-equipped traditional ones – because I’ve found that they just enable so much more. Will you join me on this adventure? Subscribe to begin exploring tonight!
First principles
What I’m Looking At focuses on amateur astronomy enabled by smart telescopes and digital-camera-equipped traditional telescopes.
Incredible pictures are always a joy but what really gets me going is a fascinating story.
Amateur astronomy used to be a highly technical pursuit (you even had to grind your own mirrors! Of course you still can, if that sounds fun to you; there are many lifetime-deep rabbit holes in this hobby, for the more technically-minded). But these days, thanks to the power of technology, it doesn’t always have to be that way. As much as humanly possible, I aim to flatten learning curves and boil the essential core out of arcane knowledge and tools.
Finally, it doesn’t either have to be expensive to explore the night sky (and even the day sky) for astronomical wonders. These days, you can actually see and learn amazing things for amazingly little. You don’t have to be rich to join this adventure!
About the author
My name is Patrick Gardner and I’m a very amateur astronomer. Just a guy with a telescope, a healthy dose of curiosity, and an urge to explore the Cosmos and share what I find. I’ve enjoyed a long professional career in advertising, with a focus on digital media, and have also always had a soft spot for adventure. In 2015-16, I sailed my own 46’ ketch Azimuth, with family, across the Atlantic Ocean, and have hiked 1200+ miles (and counting!) on the Pacific Crest Trail.
Have a favorite astronomical or personal story of your own, a personality or a target to share? I’d love to hear from you. Mail me today at patrick@whatimlookingat.com.
