Now that summer is over and the chill of autumn is setting in, it's the perfect time to go stargazing! Not only are September nights better for stargazing (they're longer and cooler), but the month is also packed with astronomical events that you and your family can't miss. To get you and your family ready for your astronomical escapades, we've rounded up four great stargazing tips that will get you and your loved ones looking up at the wonders of the cosmos.

Get your family interested

The best part about stargazing is that you can see so much more than just constellations. Meteor showers, comets, and even supermoons are all part of the stargazing experience, so if your loved ones want spectacular images, they'll be amazed by astronomy.

Finding the right place

When stargazing, the darker the sky, the better. That's why you should never stargaze near cities or homes: their light pollutes the sky and blurs the stars. When looking for places to stargaze, focus on rural and mountainous areas near you. If you're looking for stargazing spots in your area, you can search online to find options. For example, darkskymap.com lets you search a comprehensive map and provides other useful data such as parking availability and even weather conditions.

Get a star wheel

To take stargazing further, you can teach your children to use a star wheelThis clever device shows you the location of the constellations in the sky and tells you the date and time you can see them. Thanks to this sky map, your kids can keep track of their favorite constellations and can even help you plan your next stargazing excursion. You can download and print your own star wheel on Autodesk Instructables, but if you're looking for an immersive alternative, you can opt for our 3-in-1 LED Constellation Globe. This bedside lamp features all the constellations and comes with its own star guide for a seamless stargazing experience.

Get a telescope

You don't need a telescope for observing the stars, but it makes all the difference. With an HD telescope, you can zoom in on stars, moons, and even comets to admire their majesty up close. Be aware, however, that not all children's telescopes are not all created equal, as models and prices vary considerably. If your loved ones are interested in a telescope, start with a small model and invest in a more expensive option later if you need one.

Stargazing can be one of the coolest activities you can plan with your family, so get ready to look up at the sky! Did you know any of these tips, or did we miss any? Let us know in the comments below and share this blog with other families who are interested in trying out winter stargazing.