What’s Out Tonight?

Links to Telescope Stores in Tucson, Arizona

Starizona  
5757 N Oracle Rd, Suite 103, Tucson, AZ Phone: (520) 292-5010 
Comments: This is a GREAT telescope store that has been in operation for a good 25 years or more. They are the inventors/manufacturer of highly sought after astrophotography equipment. But, they also have great customer service for beginners to advanced amateurs. I have known Dean, the owner, for a long time—he and his staff are the best! 

Stellar Vision Astronomy & Science Shop  
3721 E. 37th St, Tucson, AZ 
Phone: (520) 571-0877 
Comments: Frank, who owns the store has been around for at least 30 years. He has a huge inventory of older scopes on display that is a great trip down memory lane. Frank specializes in the installation of observatory domes for amateurs. The store may be somewhat difficult to find the first time because it is located in an industrial area. 

What about Telescope Stores in Phoenix, Arizona?
Ironically, even though Phoenix is an extremely large city and in a greater area of good clear skies, its telescope stores have been few, and never last long. Currently, as of early 2024, there are no dedicated telescope stores in Phoenix that I know of.

Amateur Astronomy/Telescope Monthly Magazines 

There are two magazines available to amateur astronomers and I only recommend “Astronomy”  magazine for beginners. Sky & Telescope was the magazine of choice for years but they are struggling to survive as a business. And, many of the writers from Sky & Telescope have migrated to Astronomy magazine. Additionally, Astronomy magazine writes its articles geared more toward​s the beginner. Finally, both magazine’s websites have a wealth of free astronomical information including current events happening in the sky.

Cloudy Nights << Link
is the most popular website for amateur astronomy blogs, info and to buy/sell telescope/astro equipment. It is free to join.

Best FREE Planetarium program
Stellarium is a FREE planetarium program available for desktop/laptop Windows and Mac. It is full featured and has a multitude of options. It will take a little time to get acquain​ted but the investment is worthwhile if astronomy is an interest of yours. There are some aspects of the program that could work better but if you want to know what is happening in the sky for any date or time or place, this is the program.