Astronomy is the study of our universe beyond Earth. Everything we know about the sun, moon, planets, stars, and much more, comes from astronomy. Astronomers use math, physics, and chemistry to understand our universe, as well as their signature instrument — the telescope. 

The very first modern astronomer was a Polish scientist named Nicolaus Copernicus. Known as the Father of Astronomy, Copernicus proposed in 1532 that the Earth revolves around the sun. This was the opposite of what was long believed — that everything in space revolved around the Earth.

While correct, Copernicus’ theory wouldn’t be proven until 1632, when Italian astronomer Galileo Galilei proved that planets revolve around the sun. He made this revolutionary discovery using a telescope, and was the first person to ever use one to study space. 

In the centuries since Copernicus and Galileo, astronomers have continued to make awesome discoveries, from black holes to Jupiter’s moons. They have also posed some incredible theories. The most well-known is the Big Bang Theory, which posits that our universe began billions of years ago with the explosion of a single hot, dense point of mass that has been expanding ever since. Another is the theory of dark energy, a hypothetical type of energy that behaves the opposite of gravity. If correct, it could explain why our universe is expanding so quickly. 

Want to Celebrate Astronomy? Join Astronomy Day!

A great way to learn more about astronomy is to celebrate Astronomy Day. Celebrated twice a year in April/May and September/October, Astronomy Day is a time to look starward. This month, on October 9, you can catch a glimpse of the first quarter Moon. According to Farmers’ Almanac, this is a great time to stargaze, since the sky during this period is very dark (you can use a telescope or pair of high-powered binoculars). There are plenty of other ways to celebrate astronomy. Check out local planetarium and museum schedules where you live. You can also join a local astronomy club.

Learn more about how to celebrate Astronomy Day. Also check out more on astronomy here.

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