Keep a Night Sky Log
Become a backyard astronomer — one page at a time!
Galileo kept detailed notes of what he saw in the sky. You can do the same by starting your own Star Log. Watch the sky, write your observations, and track how it changes.
What You Will Need:
Notebook or journal
Pen or pencil
Ruler (optional for neat lines)
A chair or blanket to sit outside
Binoculars or telescope (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Go outside at night and find a quiet, dark place to sit.
Look up and take time to notice stars, planets, clouds, or the moon.
Record what you see — write about star patterns, brightness, or new objects.
Repeat your observations over multiple nights.
Compare your notes. Do any patterns change?
What to Look For:
Are some stars brighter than others?
Can you spot a planet or satellite?
Do clouds or the moon affect what you see?
Galileo Fun Fact!
Galileo’s careful journals showed that the moons of Jupiter changed position each night — proving they orbited the planet!
Safety Tip:
Dress warmly if it is cold and bring an adult with you for nighttime observing.
Track Your Star Log!
In your Star Journal:
Date: ____________
Time of Observation: ________________
What I Saw: ______________________
Sketch: [Draw the sky]
