Star Trails
"Star Trails" is a weekly podcast that invites amateur astronomers to explore the enchanting night sky. Join us as we highlight constellations, planets, moon phases, and other astronomical wonders visible in North America. Whether you're a seasoned stargazer or just starting your cosmic adventure, "Star Trails" is your guide to the captivating mysteries of the universe, all from the comfort of your own backyard.
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Stars 101: The Building Blocks of the Cosmos
In this episode we’re stripping astronomy down to its essentials: stars. Discover how these glowing spheres of plasma form from vast stellar nurseries, evolve through dramatic life cycles, and shape the cosmic tapestry we see overhead. We’ll discuss the colors of stars — why some glow red while others blaze in brilliant blue-white — and how this reveals their temperature, size, and lifespan.
Ever wondered why we see different constellations from season to season, or why Polaris isn’t forever the North Star? We’ll explain precession, the celestial pole, and the ancient naming systems that still guide modern observers.
Plus, we’ll revisit last week’s jaw-dropping occultation of Mars by the Moon, plus, what you can expect to see in the night sky this week.
For more episodes and resources for backyard astronomers, visit www.startrails.show. Share the wonder of the stars with friends and continue your cosmic journey with us. Also, connect with us on Mastodon @star_trails, or on Bluesky @startrails.bsky.social.
If you're enjoying the show, consider sharing it with a friend! Want to help? Buy us a coffee!
Podcasting is better with RSS.com! If you're planning to start your own podcast, use ourRSS.com affiliate link for a discount, and to help support Star Trails.
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The Wolf Moon and Mars: Spooky Occultations & Planetary Oddities
Join us this week for a spectacular cosmic event: On January 13th – the Moon will briefly occult Mars, causing the red planet to vanish from sight for about an hour. Discover the “why” behind this eerie alignment and how it’s all tied to the ecliptic plane — our Solar System’s celestial highway.
We’ll take a moment to learn about a prominent constellation this time of year, Gemini. You’ll want to seek out a telescope this week to enjoy Mars as it reaches opposition. Mercury is a morning star, Jupiter dominates the sky, and Saturn and Venus are in conjunction. We’ll also explore some strange facts about a few of the planets in our solar system.
For more episodes and resources for backyard astronomers, visit www.startrails.show. Share the wonder of the stars with friends and continue your cosmic journey with us. Also, connect with us on Mastodon @star_trails, or on Bluesky @startrails.bsky.social.
If you're enjoying the show, consider sharing it with a friend! Want to help? Buy us a coffee!
Podcasting is better with RSS.com! If you're planning to start your own podcast, use ourRSS.com affiliate link for a discount, and to help support Star Trails.
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A Beginner’s Winter Sky Tour & the Wonders of Ceres
Join us on a tour through the celestial highlights of January 5th–11th. In this episode, beginners learn how to navigate the sky by finding Polaris, identifying iconic constellations like Orion and Taurus, and spotting Jupiter, Saturn, and Venus through a telescope or binoculars. We also share practical tips on using a telescope, star hopping, and protecting your night vision.
Finally, we journey beyond Mars to the enigmatic Asteroid Belt, where the dwarf planet Ceres takes center stage. Discover how this largest resident of the belt reshapes our understanding of solar system history, water-rich bodies, and the potential for life.
For more episodes and resources for backyard astronomers, visit www.startrails.show. Share the wonder of the stars with friends and continue your cosmic journey with us. Also, connect with us on Mastodon @star_trails, or on Bluesky @startrails.bsky.social.
If you're enjoying the show, consider sharing it with a friend! Want to help? Buy us a coffee!
Podcasting is better with RSS.com! If you're planning to start your own podcast, use ourRSS.com affiliate link for a discount, and to help support Star Trails.
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December Stargazing Highlights and a Holiday Break
Star Trails is taking a short holiday hiatus. Learn about December’s celestial events, including Jupiter at opposition, the Geminid and Ursid meteor showers, and the Winter Solstice. Drew also introduces the Star Trails Book Club, featuring NightWatch: A Practical Guide to Viewing the Universe.
Plus, hear recommendations for favorite past episodes to catch up on during the break. Clear skies, and see you in January!
Check out these past episodes if you haven't already:
For more episodes and resources for backyard astronomers, visit www.startrails.show. Share the wonder of the stars with friends and continue your cosmic journey with us. Also, connect with us on Mastodon @star_trails, or on Bluesky @startrails.bsky.social.
If you're enjoying the show, consider sharing it with a friend! Want to help? Buy us a coffee!
Podcasting is better with RSS.com! If you're planning to start your own podcast, use ourRSS.com affiliate link for a discount, and to help support Star Trails.
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A Celestial Feast: Thanksgiving Under the Stars
This week we explore the celestial wonders gracing the night sky from November 24th to the 30th. With the Moon transitioning to a waning crescent, the darker skies set the stage for breathtaking views of Venus and Jupiter, Saturn’s iconic rings, and the distant glow of Uranus near the Pleiades—a cluster tied to harvest myths and Thanksgiving themes.
We’ll look at the sprawling constellation Eridanus, Auriga’s glittering star clusters, and the enchanting Monoceros, home to the Rosette Nebula and the Christmas Tree Cluster.
Later, we’ll explore the fascinating “bubble” that encapsulates our solar system—a remnant of an ancient supernova. Learn how this Local Bubble connects us to a vast cosmic network of interstellar tunnels.
For more episodes and resources for backyard astronomers, visit www.startrails.show. Share the wonder of the stars with friends and continue your cosmic journey with us. Also, connect with us on Mastodon @star_trails, or on Bluesky @startrails.bsky.social.
If you're enjoying the show, consider sharing it with a friend! Want to help? Buy us a coffee!
Podcasting is better with RSS.com! If you're planning to start your own podcast, use ourRSS.com affiliate link for a discount, and to help support Star Trails.