Astro-Stuff

AstroClock gives you seven clocks all on one screen!

This astronomy clock displays the current local & UTC date & time, a calendar, local & Greenwich sidereal times, and the Julian day. The menus also include information for the current sun, moon, solar/lunar eclipses, planets, comets and minor planets. There are three timers that can be run independently.
The algorithms used are based on Jean Meeus book "Astronomical Algorithms"
Planetary images are generated by the JParsec Astronomical Library by T. Alonso Albi - OAN (Spain)

Features: - Report of sun rise, set & twilight and moon rise, set & phase - Solar & lunar eclipses with local details and maps - Current solar sunspot image and information - Lunar ephemeris and phase chart for any year - Planet ephemerides and phenomenon - Details for Mars, Jupiter and Saturn - Current bright Minor planet ephemeris - Current observable Comets ephemeris - Pole Star alignment graphic - Navigation Stars - Timers (stopwatch, countdown and alarm) - Configurable to your geographic location

The amateur astronomer has access at all times to the original objects of his study; the masterpieces of the heavens belong to him as much as to the great observatories of the world. And there is no privilege like that of being allowed to stand in the presence of the original.

An observing log is a very important and often neglected tool of amateur astronomy. They’re often considered inconvenient to keep, or thought to get in the way of actual observing. However, a well-kept log isn’t really an obstacle, and can contribute significantly to the enjoyment of astronomy.

Anyone who observes the sky should keep a logbook. "If the hours we spend under the stars are precious, an observing log helps us remember them. Relying on memory alone just isn’t good enough; as years pass, details fade away until events might as well not have happened ... so many people have told me that they would like to start an observing log but haven’t gotten around to it. Yet it’s easy and fun to do, and our observations will mean so much more when they’re recorded accurately."
- David Levy – amateur astronomer and author

The Astronomer's Observing Log is a collection of articles and information that will help you get started in keeping a detailed journal of your astronomical observations. It is also a great reference for planning your observing sessions at the telescope.

Articles Include:

• Equipment
• Preparing for an observing session
• Planning your observing session
• Observing techniques
• The art of visual observing
• Astronomy & atmosphere
• Observing logs
• Sketching the deep sky
• Where do you go from here…
• Observing programs and reporting networks
• Additional resources & references
• Additional articles and helpful information
• A variety of observing forms to create your own custom log

Check out this sample from "The Astronomer's Observing Log" click here

AstroClockFX - Extras    Download it here!