The Star Party Blog
How Many Planets Are There?
There are eight official planets in our Solar System, plus recognized dwarf planets like Pluto and thousands of confirmed exoplanets beyond it. We explain the modern planet definition, why Pluto lost its status, and what you can actually see from your own backyard.
Best Telescope Collimators 2026: Laser and Cheshire
Stars looking soft through your reflector? We compare six collimation tools, three laser and three Cheshire, so you can quickly align a Newtonian and get sharper views of the Moon and planets at higher power.
Computerized Telescopes in Canada: GoTo, StarSense and Smart Scopes
Confused by GoTo, StarSense, and smart telescopes? We break down how each computerized system actually works, what tracking can and cannot do, and how to pick the right one for Canadian cold, dew, and light polluted skies.
Best Telescope Eyepieces and Barlow Lenses 2026
Ready to upgrade beyond your telescope’s stock eyepiece? We compare ten eyepieces and Barlow lenses by focal length, field of view, and comfort, covering low power scanning through high power lunar and planetary detail.
Best Portable Telescopes for Travel 2026
Planning to pack a telescope for a trip? We compare seven travel refractors by packed size, mount stability, and included accessories, so you can find a scope that sets up fast and still delivers a satisfying view of the Moon.
Best Monoculars in Canada 2026
Looking for the best monocular for hiking, birding, or travel in Canada? We compare eight handheld picks by magnification, brightness, and weather sealing, from pocketable everyday carry options to brighter large objective models for low light.
Best Spotting Scopes in Canada 2026
Shopping for a spotting scope in Canada? We compare eight picks across budgets, from value zoom kits to premium HD glass, so birders, wildlife watchers, and range shooters can find a scope that stays bright and sharp at real world distances.
Best Binoculars for Stargazing in Canada 2026
The best binoculars for stargazing in Canada: big-aperture Celestron SkyMaster classics, budget 15x70s and wide-field 7x50s compared for brightness, stability and comfort, with advice on when a tripod stops being optional.
Binocular Numbers Explained: What 7×35, 10×50 and 20×70 Mean
Binocular numbers explained: what 7×35, 10×50 and 20×70 actually mean, how magnification and objective size shape brightness and stability, and how to pick the right pair for stargazing or daytime use.
