Constellations, Asterisms, and Waypoints in the Starry Summer Sky

Join us for an awe-inspiring astronomy presentation that will unlock the secrets of the summer skies and teach you how to navigate using the stars. This presentation is designed for both beginners and seasoned stargazers, providing a guide to identifying stars, constellations, and deep-sky objects in our Milky Way Galaxy visible during the summer months.

During the presentation, our expert amateur astronomer will take you on a virtual journey through the celestial wonders of the summer sky. You will learn about the key constellations that grace the night, such as Ursa Major (the Great Bear), Cygnus (the Swan), Boötes (the Bear Watcher), and many more.

Focusing on practical techniques, our astronomer will demonstrate how to locate and identify stars using naked-eye observations, star charts, smartphone apps, with or without the aid of binoculars or small telescopes. You'll discover tips and tricks to recognize key stars and patterns, allowing you to find your way across the sky with confidence.

By the end of this presentation, you will possess the knowledge and tools necessary to confidently navigate the summer skies. Whether you're a casual observer, an amateur astronomer, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the cosmos, this presentation will unlock a whole new world of wonder and discovery.

Randy Hemann is a local physician and avid amateur astronomer here in Rochester. He leads the local amateur astronomy club (rochesterskies.org) and enjoys staying up late at night to keep an eye on the skies for all of us!