Star gazing is an activity for astronomers suitable for beginners. This activity consists of obtaining a high-powered telescope and looking to the sky. Make a list of the stars that you want to see. If you are unsure about the design of each star, consult an astronomy book. The astronomy book can also tell you when to look for each star. At the right times, look into the telescope to view the stars. You can check each star off your list once you've seen them.
The solar system is a complex set of planets that revolve around the sun. You can learn more about the solar system by building a replica. Buy Styrofoam balls in various sizes and wire to insert into the balls. A box painted black will hold the solar system. Paint the Styrofoam balls the colors of the planets. You can label each planet, if you like. Ensure that you have a larger Styrofoam ball for the sun. Insert a wire into each ball and stick into the floor of the box. At completion, you should have the sun in the middle with the planets around it.
This activity is more advanced because you need infrared pictures. A group of two or three is recommended for this activity. According to NASA's website, you will need to take photographs of a starfield, one with a visible light camera and the other with an infrared camera. The dots that you see on the starfield represent the brightness of the asteroid. You will also need to take pictures of warm rocks, using a visible light and an infrared camera. NASA also recommends making clay replicas of the Ceres, Pallas, and Vesta asteroids. This activity will allow individuals to see what an asteroid looks like in visible light and in infrared light. One person will ask the others what a certain asteroid looks like and the other individuals should use the clay models to give the correct answer.
The lunar eclipse is an astronomical event that only occurs when the Earth, sun and moon are aligned. With the lunar eclipse, the moon is covered with a reddish shadow. The lunar eclipse usually happens in July and December, at night. Get a couple of your friends and have a barbecue or any type of get-together while waiting for the lunar eclipse. It is best to look for the lunar eclipse in an open area; you will see it more clearly. Use binoculars to watch the shadow gradually cover the moon.