Shows
The Actual Astronomy Podcast#465 - 7” Refractor First LightChris shares his first light report with the 7” TMB refractor. Shane joined Chris for second light with the 7” and the guys talk about the views.
2025-01-131h 04The Actual Astronomy Podcast#433 - Shane’s New TelescopeShane talks about his new Takahashi FOA-Q telescope.
2024-06-1335 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#422 - Chris’s Observatory UpdateChris tells us about the progress of his observatory build.
2024-05-061h 05The Actual Astronomy Podcast#410 - The Planetary Nebula of H.D. CurtisChris and Shane talk about the an interesting planetary nebula project that Chris will be working on.
2024-03-2529 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#399 - Astronomy Books With Chris WilcoxChris and Shane welcome Chris Wilcox to the show to talk about astronomy books. Chris owns a small book store in the US and has some great recommendations. Show notes available on www.actualastronomy.com
2024-02-151h 09The Actual Astronomy Podcast#393 - Astronomy Outreach and Advice for ChrisChris and Shane discuss listener emails.
2024-01-2534 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#382 - First Light For Chris’s ObservatoryChris shares his observing report for first light from his new observatory!
2023-12-1143 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#375 - We Finally Observed Together!Chris and Shane talk about their recent observing session together at Chris’s dark sky location.
2023-11-1357 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#352 - Shane’s Grasslands National Park Observing Report & Chris’s Observatory UpdateChris and Shane discuss recent observing in Grasslands National Park and Chris gives an update on his observatory building project.
2023-08-2442 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#320 - Observing Reports From Chris and ShaneChris and Shane share their observing reports.
2023-04-2746 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#310 - Winter Wide Field WondersChris and Shane talk about a portion of the Wide Field Wonders list that Chris curated for the RASC Observer’s Handbook.
2023-03-2336 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#309 - Chris Seeks Listener Advice For His Next Telescope PurchaseChris is contemplating which telescope he should get for his observatory and he wants your help!
2023-03-2023 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#282 - Tips For Purchasing an Astronomy PropertyChris and Shane chat Chris’s learnings from buying a property to observe from.
2022-12-1234 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#264 - Some Observing and Some SketchingChris and Shane discuss some of their recent observing. Chris shares a new sketching technique he is trying.
2022-10-1056 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#224 - Lunar Eclipse ObservationsChris and Shane share the pie Lunar Eclipse observation reports. Chris gives an update on his recently acquired Celstron Comet Catcher.
2022-05-2353 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#222 - Chris Purchased a Vintage Telescope!Chris talks about his newest telescope, a Celestron Comet Hunter!
2022-05-1651 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#216 - Details About Shane’s New Refractor and Listener EmailsChris and Shane discuss the Takahashi TSA-102 and read some listener emails.
2022-04-2547 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#212 - Gear Reviews and Sirius B Finally AppearsChris and Shane talk about the Berlebach Uni 28 and Takahashi 28mm Erfle. Shane shares his observation of splitting Sirius.
2022-04-1143 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#182 - It’s Officially Cold…and a New Eyepiece to TryCold temps are keeping Chris and Shane indoors, but Shane recently acquired a Nikon DS Wide eyepiece that is designed for a spotting scope. Shane plans to use this new eyepiece in his telescopes.
2021-12-2747 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#170 - Suitcase Observatory Update & Pondering New TelescopesShane gives an update on his progress with building a suitcase observatory. Then Chris and Shane discuss some telescopes they are thinking of buying in the future.
2021-11-1545 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#166 - More New Eyepieces to TestShane purchased a 30mm APM UFF eyepiece. This sparks a discussion about upcoming eyepiece comparisons that Chris and Shane plan on doing with the 12.5mm Docter, 12.5mm Baader Morpheus, 13mm T6 Nagler and the other comparison will be between the 30mm APM UFF, 31mm T6 Nagler, and 32mm Masuyama.
2021-11-0141 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#160 - Lots of Observing More Binoviewer FeedbackChris and Shane were to do a lot of observing during the past week. Shane continues to use his binoviewers and continues to be impressed.
2021-10-1132 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#158 - Chris and Shane Have Lots of Observing to Talk AboutChris and Shane share their observing reports.
2021-10-0440 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#152 - Dark Sky Observing ReportChris and I Shane we’re finally able to observe together at Chris’s new site. Heear all about their great night of observing.
2021-09-0943 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#149 - Shane Has First Light With the Borg 50FLShane received his Borg 50FL and talks about a short session observing Jupiter and Saturn. Chris used his new telescope cover to get some extra observing done.
2021-09-0636 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#144 - Chris and Shane Have Some Observing ReportsChris and Shane had some really good observing conditions and took full advantage of it! Hear the details in this episode.
2021-08-1836 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#141 - Chris’s New Dark Site Had First Light!The smoke subsided enough for Chris to get his first observing session at his new site. Many objects were observed!
2021-08-0527 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#122 - Early Morning Planet Observing and Chris’s Takahashi Setup is Nearing CompletionChris and Shane recap their observing from the past week and Chris was able to test his new configuration for the Takahashi FC100.
2021-05-3159 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#108 - A Telescope Horror Story and Some Observing Reports With Unexpected AuroraShane shares a horror story regarding his Takahashi 76dcu. Also hear about Chris’s attempt to observe comet C/2020 R4 ATLAS and Shane was able to observe some double stars from the RASC double star program.
2021-04-1255 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#106 -Advice For Buying an H-alpha Solar Telescope & Chris Shares First Light With the miniBorg 50Shane shares a recent solar observing report and provides some tips fur purchasing your first h-alpha telescope. Chris had first light with his 50mm miniBorg and shares his observing report.
2021-04-0552 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#104 - Chris’s New Tiny Telescope, Finders, and Observing ReportsChris purchased one of Shane’s miniBorg 50mm telescopes and is now a member of the Tiny Telescope club! Other discussion points in this episode are the different finders that are available and some observing reports.
2021-03-2954 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#98 - A New Eyepiece For Shane & Chris is Considering a Tiny TelescopeShane shares the reasoning for buying a TMB 25mm Ortho and Chris shares why he is thinking about buying a 40mm telescope.
2021-03-0846 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#96 - Book Reviews and an Observing Log TemplateChris and Shane talk about a few different books as well as a review from a listener. Chris shares his observing log template and how to prepare to observe without having to fumble through a star atlas.
2021-03-0151 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#90 - Meanderings of Two Bored AstronomersThe weather has ruined any observing hopes during the previous week. Chris and Shane talk about some new eyepieces and a chair that Chris received as well as some gear that is on their wish lists.
2021-02-0844 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#86 - Chris and Shane’s Current Observing Projects/ListsIf you are looking for a new observing project, you might find some inspiration in this episode. Chris and Shane share the lists and projects that they are focusing on. More information regarding this episode can be found at www.actualastronomy.com
2021-01-2550 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#76 - Almost Great Conjunction ObservationsChris and Shane compare their observations of Jupiter and Saturn as the two planets approach conjunction. The tonal colour differences surprise Chris and Shane.
2020-12-2153 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#74 - Light Pollution Filters & A Book Give AwayChris and Shane discuss the merits of using filters that claim to help with light pollution and find out how you can win a brand new copy of the RASC 2021 Observers Handbook.
2020-12-1452 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#73 - A Beautiful Open Cluster TourChris and Shane discuss a wonderful open cluster tour that goes through Taurus and Perseus. You can do this tour with binoculars or a telescope...if you have very dark skies, then all you need are your eyes!
2020-12-1048 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#72 - Find Out What is Possible with a Celestron 76mm FirstscopeA longtime listener, Phil, joins Chris and Shane in this episode. Phil shares his experiences with a Celestron Firstscope that he transformed into a Supermod 76!
2020-12-0753 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#70 - Objects to Observe in December 2020Chris and Shane highlight some interesting things to observe in December, including a once in a lifetime conjunction between Jupiter and Saturn.
2020-12-0141 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#69 - Listener Questions are Answered #3Chris and Shane empty out the Actual Astronomy galactic mail bag and provide answers to listener questions.
2020-11-2651 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#68 - First Light For the Borg and a Skywatcher AZ5 ReviewShane was able to try the 50mm at night and Chris provides a review for the Skywatcher AZ5 mount.
We are pleased to announce that we made it onto the Top 15 Astronomy Podcasts list. Check it out if you would like to discover new astronomy podcasts.
2020-11-2357 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#67 - Starter Telescope RecommendationsChris and Shane discuss multiple starter telescope options. If you are thinking about buying your first telescope or gifting a telescope, this episode was made for you.
2020-11-1953 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#66 - Eyepiece ChatChris and Shane talk about how effective some lower priced eyepieces are. A listener’s audio message about his experience with a new eyepiece is played and Shane shares how he has conquered the cold!
2020-11-1645 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#65 - The Ultimate Guide to Observing GuidesAn observing guide is a great resource to help plan observing sessions. Chris and Shane share their favourite observing guides.
2020-11-1349 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#64 - Seven Planets in One Night and a Telescope ComparisonChris was able to observe 7 planets in one night and Shane compares an old Zeiss telescope to a modern Takahashi.
2020-11-1051 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#62 - Listener Questions Are Answered #2Lots of excellent questions have come into the podcast that Chris and Shane answer.
2020-11-0352 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#60 - Objects to Observe in November 2020Chris and Shane discuss lots of interesting objects to add to your November observing plan.
2020-10-2747 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#59 - Your Guide to Observing in the Constellation of PegasusChris and Shane discuss the objects to observe in Pegasus which is currently well place in the fall skies.
2020-10-2244 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#58 - Comparing Eyepieces, Telescopes, and FiltersChris and Shane discuss the results of recent gear comparisons that Chris performed.
2020-10-2048 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#57 - Observing Mars Throughout HistoryChris and Shane talk about early observations of Martian ‘canals’ and other interesting Mars observations from the past.
2020-10-1543 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#56 - Last Week’s Observing RecapChris and Shane share some of their recent observations. Chris gives his initial thoughts on his new Nikon 1.6x barlow.
2020-10-1339 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#55 - Listener Questions Are AnsweredChris and Shane answer a bunch of listener astronomy questions that were emailed to the show.
2020-10-1056 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#54 - Incredible Mars ObservationOn Oct 3rd, Chris and Shane had their best Mars observation of their lifetimes. Lots of details reported in this episode.
2020-10-0751 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#53 - Objects to Observe in October 2020Mars is a ‘must observe’ object this month. Chris and Shane discuss this and other objects to have a look at.
2020-10-0149 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#52 - The Art of Sketching ObservationsChris and Shane welcome observing friend Kathleen as the first guest appearance on the podcast. Kathleen shares her thoughts on sketching observations and other aspects of amateur astronomy.
2020-09-2854 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#51 - Chris and Shane Discuss Their Most Memorable ObservationsChris and Shane have been observing the nigh sky for a long time. Hear about their most memorable observations. You may want to add some of these to your observing lists.
2020-09-241h 11The Actual Astronomy Podcast#50 - Chris's Recent Mars ObservationsDark sky observing plans were scuttled due to wild fire smoke, however Chris was still able to view Mars on a couple of different nights.
2020-09-2249 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#48 - Finally Chris and Shane Observe Together...Under a Dark(ish) SkyFor the first time this year, Chris and Shane meet up to observe under a relatively dark sky. Listen to hear the observations of Jupiter, Saturn, Mars, various clusters, and an excellent double star in Andromeda.
2020-09-1547 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#47 - Andromeda Constellation Deep DiveChris and Shane provide some astronomical history of the Andromeda constellation and list many interesting objects to observe within it.
2020-09-1031 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#46 - First Light Review of the Skywatcher AZ-GTI & Last light review of the Masuyama 35mmChris finally got the mount he has been wanting and tells us the pros and cons. Shane decided he does not like the Masuyama 35mm, find out why.
2020-09-0747 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#45 - Chris Has Transformed Into a Nocturnal Creature and Shane Tests a Legendary EyepieceChris continues to log pre-sunrise observations and Shane tests a recently acquired 35mm Masuyama eyepiece. There are lots of planetary observations to hear about.
2020-09-0345 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#43 - An Economic Way to Double Your Eyepiece CollectionAdding a barlow to your kit is a great way to double your eyepiece collection. Chris and Shane discuss the pros and cons of barlows as well as an overview on different mounts the are available to astronomers.
2020-08-2743 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#42 - Life, The Universe and Everything!After a quick shout out to The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, Chris and Shane talk about recent observations of the Sun, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn.
2020-08-2443 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#41 - All About Backyard ObservatoriesChris is thinking building an observatory at a dark site. Shane shares all of his learnings of owning a backyard observatory. If you have ever thought about building an observatory, this episode is for you!
2020-08-2055 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#40 - Learn Different Techniques to See More Planetary DetailChris and Shane talk about different techniques to see the last little bit of planetary detail and share recent observations of Jupiter, Venus, and Mars.
2020-08-171h 07The Actual Astronomy Podcast#38 - Filter Impacts & More Planetary ObservingChris and Shane discuss some new gear purchases and filter use during planetary observing.
2020-08-1039 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#37 - Deep Dive Into ScorpiusChris and Shane discuss the history of Scorpius and some of the best objects to observe in the constellation.
2020-08-0659 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#36 - Lots of Planetary Observing Reports with Eyepiece and Filter ComparisonsThe weather has been good for astronomy which means Chris and Shane have lots to share!
2020-08-0350 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#35 - Objects to Observe in August 2020Wondering what you can observe in August? Chris and Shane will tell you about the planets, Moon, and the best warm weather meteor shower.
2020-07-3051 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#34 - Goodbye Comet NEOWISE, hello Jupiter!Chris and Shane share observations of fading Comet NEOWISE. As NEOWISE disappears, Chris and Shane resume their focus on the planets and share some recent observations.
2020-07-2835 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#33 - Comet NEOWISE Observations and Upcoming Meteor ShowersChris shares his observations of Comet NEOWISE, Jupiter, and Saturn while at Grasslands National Park. While you are observing Comet NEOWISE, you may notice increased meteor activity. This is due to some upcoming meteor showers that Chris and Shane talk about.
2020-07-2035 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#32 - Detailed Plans for an Astronomy Trip to Grasslands National ParkChris and Shane are excited for one of their many voyages to Grasslands National Park to do some observing under the darkest skies in Canada. Find out how they prepare and what they plan to observe. The next couple of podcasts might come out later than usual due to this observing trip.
2020-07-1753 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#31 - Comet NEOWISE Observing Reports and Chris Tests His Revamped 80mm TelescopeChris and Shane share some recent observations of bright Comet NEOWISE. Chris provides an update on how his 80mm telescope performed after Shane did some work to improve the views.
2020-07-1335 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#29 - Don't Cry Over Spilled Milky Way!Many people have never seen the Milky Way. Chris and Shane describe what it looks like and how to observe it. Timing is impeccable because summer is the best time to see the Milky Way. The podcast ends with tips on how to find dark skies near you.
2020-07-0945 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#28 - The Darkness is Coming...and a Comet!We are slowly getting out of perpetual twilight! Chris and Shane talk about their recent observations of Jupiter, Saturn, the Moon, and more sightings of noctilucent clouds. Plus get an update on comet C/2020 F3 NEOWISE.
2020-07-0646 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#27 - Objects to Observe in July 2020This might be the easiest month to find the planets in the night sky. Chris and Shane will also talk about July being the best month to observe Jupiter and Saturn. Oh yeah, we might also be treated to a fairly bright comet!
2020-07-0144 minThe Actual Astronomy PodcastRecent Observations of the Moon, Jupiter, and Double StarsChris and Shane share some recent observations from their backyards.
2020-06-2947 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#25 - Cloudy Night AstronomySometimes the weather conspires against amateur astronomers by delivering cloudy skies. Chris and Shane discuss their favorite astronomy books and websites that are perfect cloudy night pastimes.
2020-06-2545 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#24 - Discover Some Lesser Known ConstellationsHave you heard of the Summer Triangle? Chris and Shane will tell you what this is and talk about some spectacular objects to observe in a few small constellations.
2020-06-2234 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#23 - Easy AstrophotographyThe beautiful astronomy photos that you see in magazines often require a lot of time and expensive gear. In this episode, Chris and Shane talk about how you can easily capture amazing astro photos with your phone or a DSLR style camera!
2020-06-1848 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#22 - A Noctilucent Cloud Sighting! Find Out Which Comets and Asteroids Are Visible this MonthChris and Shane describe a recent noctilucent cloud observation and talk about some solar system objects that will be observable during the next two weeks.
2020-06-1546 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#21 - Learn About the Gaseous Planets...Hint, it's the Other 4 Planets We Didn't Talk About in Episode #15Learn about the 4 gaseous planets in our solar system. Chris and Shane give tips on how to observe these planets.
2020-06-1146 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#20 - Now is the Time to Observe Noctilucent CloudsChris and Shane share recent observations of the Sun, Mercury, and our Moon. Noctilucent cloud season is upon us, find out what this phenomena is and how to observe it.
2020-06-0841 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#19 - Using Exit Pupil as a Guide to Build Your Eyepiece CollectionExit pupil is another approach that can be used to determine which eyepieces match your telescope. Never heard of exit pupil? Do not worry, Chris and Shane explain this concept.
2020-06-0434 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#18 - Objects to Observe in June 2020Even though June does not have much darkness due to the long days, Chris and Shane share objects that they plan to observe in June.
2020-06-0138 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#17 - You've Purchased a Telescope and Some Eyepieces....Now What?Chris and Shane share some tips on how to prepare to observe close to home as well as over night at a remote location.
2020-05-2847 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#16 - In the Voice of Jim Morrison...This is the End, of Venus ObservationsChris and Shane have concluded this current round of Venus observations and explain why they observed the planet on many different evenings. In addition Shane shares his recent session observing the Sun with a hydrogen alpha telescope.
2020-05-2642 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#15 - Learn About the 4 Terrestrial Planets....Hint, it's the Inner 4 PlanetsThe episode focuses on the four planets that are closest to the Sun. Chris and Shane also talk about an interesting Mercury and Venus pairing to observe on May 23, 2020.
2020-05-2152 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#14 - Recent Observing and a Guide to Astronomy BinocularsChris and Shane share some recent observing reports as well as some of the binoculars that they like to use for astronomy.
2020-05-1934 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#13 - Keeping a Record of Your ObservationsShane likes to keep written logs of his observations and Chris likes to sketch what he sees at the eyepiece. Listen as they battle to the death to determine which method is better....just kidding, no battles here. Just tips that you can use to log your observations.
2020-05-1436 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#12 - Map of the Sky, Which is the Right Star Atlas for You?Before the days of GPS, many people used road atlases to navigate during travel. Astronomers still use atlases to navigate the night sky. There are many star atlases available, Chris and Shane discuss many of the common ones available.
2020-05-1239 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#10 - New telescope first light!Chris and Shane have each received new telescopes. Come listen to the first light reports and other other helpful tips such as how to test the optics of a new telescope.
2020-05-0555 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#9 - Objects to Observe in May 2020Chris and Shane talk about the objects they are excited to observe in May.
2020-05-0251 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#6 - Introduction to the UniverseChris and Shane explain our place in the universe, starting from our Sun and progressing outwards!
2020-04-2744 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#5 - Gear TalkChris and Shane go in many directions! Prisms, mounts, diagonals and more are discussed.
2020-04-2435 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#4 - Getting Started in AstronomyIf you have ever wanted to observe the night sky, this episode is for you! Chris and Shane will cover some of the basics to help you begin a your astronomical observing journey.
2020-04-2040 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#3 - The Ultimate Travel Telescope?Chris and Shane discuss some recent astronomy purchases share their opinion for the ultimate travel telescope.
2020-04-2043 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#2 - Classic Telescope DiscussionSometimes we assume modern telescopes and accessories are better than equipment made in the past. Chris and Shane shares their experiences with old telescopes and explain that some are as good or better than modern telescopes.
2020-04-1944 minThe Actual Astronomy Podcast#1 - Introduction to the Actual Astronomy PodcastJoin Chris and Shane as they 'reboot' their podcast that focuses on amateur astronomy. Topics will include visual observations, gear discussions, and general guides to help people observe the night sky (and sometimes the day-time sky). Music by Will Beckett.
2020-04-1936 min