FAQ

Do I need to know anything about astronomy to understand the articles in One-Minute Astronomer?
If you’ve never given a thought or learned a thing about the night sky, then a few of the articles in One-Minute Astronomer might seem a little tough to follow. But if you’re a keen beginner or more experienced amateur astronomer, then you’ll find this website to be interesting and useful.

What will I learn by reading One-Minute Astronomer?
When you subscribe to One-Minute Astronomer, you’ll receive a series of short and easy-to-read messages each week that help nurture your interest in the night sky. You’ll read about telescopes and observing techniques, the science of astronomy, history and famous astronomers, and how to see some of the most beautiful objects in the night sky.

Do I need a star map find the celestial objects you write about?
No, but a simple star map will be a great help. There are many good star maps available in print and online. You can get a free and simple map that you can configure to your location at http://www.fourmilab.ch/yoursky/

Can you tell me what type of telescope I should buy?
It all depends on your budget, your location, your interests, and how big a telescope you are able to lift and move around. You will find many good suggestions for telescopes under the Telescopes and Observing category on this website.

What’s that bright object I see in the sky?
What you see in the sky depends on the time of year, the position of the stars and planets in the sky, and your geographic location. You can create your own star map for your location at YourSky at the link provided above. This will help you find what’s up in your sky tonight.

How can I learn more about astronomy?
You will find many useful articles on One-Minute Astronomer to help you learn more about astronomy. But an excellent book for beginners is Nightwatch, by Terence Dickinson. You can find this book in most bookstores and libraries.

How can I cancel my subscription to One-Minute Astronomer?
Simply send an email to unsubscribe@oneminuteastronomer.com

Can I link to One-Minute Astronomer from my website?
Yes, by all means. We appreciate links from all appropriate websites.


Can I publish your articles on my website or newsletter?
Because the material on One-Minute Astronomer is protected by copyright, you can’t publish the articles word-for-word. But you may publish a link on your website to direct your readers back to the original article on One-Minute Astronomer.

Is One-Minute Astronomer a non-profit website?
No. One-Minute Astronomer provides free articles to subscribers and to anyone else who wishes to read the website. One-Minute Astronomer pays for web hosting and other expenses by providing advertising services and may, from time to time, offer useful products for sale to interested readers who wish to learn more about astronomy.

Who writes OMA?
Most of the articles in One-Minute Astronomer are written by Brian Ventrudo, an amateur astronomer based in Ottawa, Canada.  Occasionally, guest authors contribute articles based on their expertise and interests.

What are your qualifications in astronomy?
Brian Ventrudo has a graduate degree in astronomy and a doctorate in applied physics. But most of all, he and all involved with One-Minute Astronomer are longtime amateur astronomers who love to get out and enjoy the night sky and share their interests with others.

Can I advertise on One-Minute Astronomer?
Yes, absolutely. One Minute Astronomer has limited space for astronomy equipment vendors and publishers of astronomy information products. Please contact us at info@oneminuteastronomer.com for more information.