JA Jones Hoober Observatory

Like an illustration in a galactic

APOD: 2026 August 20 – The Elephant s Trunk in Cepheus A different astronomy and space science related image is featured each day, along with a brief explanation.

This was a good year for the

APOD: 2026 August 18 – Perseids from Perseus A different astronomy and space science related image is featured each day, along with a brief explanation.

This total solar eclipse appeared not only poetically beautiful but scientifically interesting.

APOD: 2026 August 17 – A Golden Corona Eclipse A different astronomy and space science related image is featured each day, along with a brief explanation.

The Milky Way was not created by an evaporating lake.

APOD: 2026 August 16 – Milky Way over Yellowstone A different astronomy and space science related image is featured each day, along with a brief explanation.

Known for its bright and fast meteors, the annual

APOD: 2026 August 15 – Bright Perseids from Sweden A different astronomy and space science related image is featured each day, along with a brief explanation.

On August 12th, 2026, the Moon

APOD: 2026 August 13 – Total Solar Eclipse Over Spain A different astronomy and space science related image is featured each day, along with a brief explanation.

Huge thanks to everyone who came along to the Observatory to watch the Eclipse with us! 🌑✨ It was a pleasure showing you the Sun through our telescopes 🔭 — we hope you had an amazing time!

Perseids Over a Little Planet

APOD: 2026 August 12 - Perseids Over a Little Planet A different astronomy and space science related image is featured each day, along with a brief explanation.

☀️ SOLAR ECLIPSE – IMPORTANT SAFETY ADVICE ☀️

With tomorrow’s eclipse approaching, we wanted to share an important reminder for anyone planning to observe it.

There is unfortunately a lot of misinformation circulating on social media regarding safe solar observation. Please do not take chances with your eyesight.

🔭 If you are observing the Sun through a telescope, binoculars or any other optical equipment, a properly designed and securely fitted solar filter MUST be used.

👓 If observing with the naked eye, you MUST use certified solar eclipse glasses or other approved solar viewers obtained from a reputable supplier.

Never look directly at the Sun through unfiltered optical equipment. Telescopes and binoculars concentrate the Sun’s light and heat, and even a very brief exposure can cause permanent and irreversible damage to your eyesight.

⚠️ A particular warning about older or inexpensive telescopes:
Never use the small solar filters that screw directly into the telescope eyepiece. These are not safe and can become extremely hot and potentially crack or fail under concentrated sunlight, allowing intense sunlight directly into your eye.

There are no safe shortcuts when it comes to observing the Sun.

If you are unsure whether your equipment is suitable for solar observing, do not use it until you have established that it is safe.

At Mexborough & Swinton Astronomical Society, we take solar observing safety extremely seriously. We want everyone to enjoy this spectacular event — without putting their eyesight at risk.

🌞 Enjoy the eclipse. Protect your eyes. Observe safely.

MSAS – Serving South Yorkshire 🔭