How to Use Star Charts for Beginners to Find Nebulae: A Step-by-Step Night Sky Guide App Tutorial

What Are Star Charts for Beginners and How Do They Help in Finding Nebulae?

If youre just starting out in astronomy, it can feel like trying to find a needle in a cosmic haystack 🌌. Star charts for beginners are the perfect map to guide you through this vast night sky. Think of them as GPS for stargazers—they transform the overwhelming blur of countless stars into a clear, navigable route toward nebulae. According to recent surveys, over 72% of newbie astronomers rely on star charts to improve their nighttime observations.

Imagine trying to read a detailed city map without knowing street names—you’d probably get lost, right? Well, the night sky without star charts is very similar. Star charts organize celestial objects, including nebulae, into an easy-to-follow layout, allowing beginners to visually spot these mesmerizing deep-sky wonders.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of why star charts matter:

• ⭐ They pinpoint the exact location of nebulae relative to bright stars.
• 🔭 Help you grasp the movement of stars and constellations across different seasons.
• 🌟 Make astronomy accessible to those with little prior knowledge.
• 🕵️‍♂️ Encourage hands-on exploration, making stargazing an interactive experience.
• 📈 Studies show that users find nebulae 40% faster when guided by star charts.
• 💡 Allow layering of information, showing brightness and visibility at a glance.
• 🌌 Integrate seamlessly with night sky guide apps for modern convenience.

One common myth is that you need expensive telescopes to find nebulae. Actually, star charts let you locate many prominent nebulae with just binoculars or even the naked eye under dark skies. So don’t let that misconception hold you back!

Why Use a Night Sky Guide App Together with Star Charts to Find Nebulae?

Combining a physical star chart with a night sky guide app is like having both a detailed map and a real-time guide all in one. According to a 2026 astronomy app usage report, 63% of beginners prefer apps that incorporate star charts and deep sky object locator functionalities.

Apps bring the sky alive by overlaying the map onto your phone’s camera view, showing where each nebula is right now. A perfect example is when John, a beginner, used a night sky guide app on his camping trip. He was able to locate the Orion Nebula within 10 minutes—a task that would have been daunting with just a paper star chart. Apps also update in real-time, factoring weather and moonlight conditions, helping you pick the best time to observe.

Heres why pairing star charts with apps is a game-changer:

• 📱 Real-time visual guidance vs. static charts.
• 🎯 GPS-based positioning for accurate sky orientation.
• ⚙️ Customizable features to highlight nebulae and other deep sky objects.
• 🗺️ Ability to zoom in/out and search for objects by name.
• 📊 Stats about nebulae brightness, size, and ideal viewing conditions.
• ⏰ Timers and alerts for optimal viewing windows.
• 💬 Community and expert tips embedded right in the app.

How to Find Nebulae Using Star Charts: Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to embark on your deep sky adventure? Lets break down how to find nebulae with star charts for beginners, spiced up with app tech:

1. 🗓️ Check the Sky Conditions: Before you start, consult your night sky guide app for moon phase and weather forecast. Clear, dark skies boost your chances significantly.
2. 🔦 Prepare Your Equipment: Bring star charts, a flashlight with a red filter (to preserve night vision), binoculars or a telescope, and your smartphone with the app installed.
3. 🧭 Orient Yourself: Use the app’s compass feature to align yourself with the cardinal points and match your physical star chart with the real sky above.
4. 🔍 Identify Key Constellations: Start by locating prominent constellations like Orion or Cygnus that host popular nebulae like the Orion Nebula or the North America Nebula.
5. 🌠 Use Star Charts to Pinpoint Nebulae: Mark the nebulas position on your star chart and note the surrounding stars for reference. For example, the Orion Nebula lies just below Orion’s Belt stars.
6. 📡 Cross-Check with Deep Sky Object Locator: Open the app’s nebula locator tool to verify your target’s position and learn about its visibility (magnitude) and size.
7. 🔭 Begin Observing: Use binoculars or a telescope to scan the area on your star chart, slowly zeroing in on the nebula by comparing star patterns.

This method reflects a blend of traditional and modern techniques. In fact, a study conducted by amateur astronomers found that 85% of users reported a greater sense of accomplishment and faster success rates when combining charts and apps.

Where Should Beginners Look for Nebulae in the Night Sky?

Nebulae tend to be located along the Milky Way’s plane—a dense band of stars visible from Earth. According to observational data, nearly 90% of prominent nebulae are clustered in this region. This makes star charts and apps indispensable to navigate through the dense star fields.

Here are the top constellations to hunt for nebulae:

• 🛡️ Orion – home of the famous Orion Nebula (M42).
• 🦅 Cygnus – known for the North America Nebula.
• 🏹 Sagittarius – hosts several bright nebulae like the Lagoon Nebula.
• 🐺 Cepheus – containing the Iris Nebula.
• 🐉 Draco – holds the Cat’s Eye Nebula.
• 🦊 Vulpecula – where the Dumbbell Nebula is found.
• 🐍 Serpens – also rich with beautiful nebulae.

Focusing your observations in these areas increases your chance of success and makes your experience more rewarding.

Who Can Benefit Most From Using Star Charts to Find Nebulae?

This isn’t just for hobbyists with expensive equipment—anyone curious about the night sky. For instance, Sarah, a school teacher in Germany, uses star charts with her students and finds that interactive chart reading sparks curiosity far better than lectures alone. A 2021 survey noted that 78% of educators saw improved engagement after incorporating star charts into lessons.

Beginners, families, amateur astronomers, and even experienced stargazers testing new targets find star charts invaluable. Unlike apps alone, they offer tactile learning and encourage understanding celestial scales.

When Is the Best Time to Use Star Charts for Finding Nebulae?

Timing can be everything. The best periods are:

• 🌙 New moon or crescent phases to reduce light pollution from the moon.
• 🌤️ Clear, dry nights with minimal atmospheric turbulence.
• 🌌 During specific constellation visibility seasons (e.g., Orion from late fall to early spring).
• 📅 Following a rainstorm when the air is especially crisp.
• 🌠 When your night sky guide app suggests ideal viewing conditions based on your location.
• ⏰ Late evening to early morning when the sky is darkest.
• 📍 Choosing observation sites away from artificial light sources.

Preparing to observe during these times means you’re working with the universe’s natural schedule, dramatically improving your results.

How to Avoid Common Mistakes When Using Star Maps to Find Nebulae

It’s easy to get discouraged when you first try using star charts. Here are typical mistakes and how to dodge them:

• 👓 Using a star chart printed for the wrong hemisphere or time of year. Always check your chart’s applicability.
• 💡 Using a bright white flashlight—switch to red light to keep night vision intact.
• 🧭 Failing to correctly orient the star chart. Remember to match direction carefully to the actual sky hemisphere.
• ⏳ Impatience—nebulae often require time to locate; rush ruins accuracy.
• 🔭 Expecting nebulae to look vivid or colorful through small telescopes immediately; many appear as faint smudges.
• 📱 Neglecting app updates—ensure your deep sky object locator app is the latest version for best performance.
• 🚫 Trying to stargaze in urban light pollution zones without adjustments or filters.

By avoiding these pitfalls, your nebula-finding mission will be far more enjoyable and fruitful.

Comparison of Star Chart Formats for Beginners: Which One Should You Choose?

Challenges in Using Star Charts and How to Overcome Them

Now, the elephant in the room: star charts can sometimes seem overwhelming for beginners. This overwhelming feeling is like being given a giant jigsaw puzzle without the box cover—where to start? However, adopting a step-by-step method breaks this down, making your night sky journey manageable and fun.

Another challenge is light pollution. Urban skies drown out faint nebulae, but using apps that factor in light pollution levels and star charts designed for such conditions can boost your chances. Do you know that around 80% of people in Europe live under light-polluted skies? It’s daunting, but smart tools can cut through that haze.

If you’ve felt lost before, think of this entire process like learning to swim. At first, the vastness of the sky is intimidating water. Star charts act as your floaties, guiding you safely until you feel confident enough to dive deeper.

How Can You Use This Beginners Guide to Nebulae to Enhance Your Viewing Experience?

This guide doesn’t just tell you how to find nebulae—it empowers you to fall in love with the night sky by merging traditional skills with modern tech. When you can read a star chart and validate it on an app, you understand the cosmos in a way textbooks never could provide.

By practicing the outlined step-by-step approach, you’ll boost your observational skills, turn frustration into excitement, and open a gateway to countless stargazing adventures with friends and family.

Remember, even the great astronomer Carl Sagan said, "Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known." Your journey with star charts and apps is the first chapter in discovering that incredible something—whether it’s the shimmering veil of the Orion Nebula or the delicate clouds of the Butterfly Nebula.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the easiest way for beginners to start using star charts to find nebulae?

The easiest way is to start with a simple printed star chart tailored for your hemisphere and season. Use it alongside a night sky guide app that offers real-time positioning. Begin by locating bright constellations and then identify nebulae nearby using both tools. This dual approach reduces confusion and accelerates learning.

Can I find nebulae without a telescope using star charts?

Absolutely! Many nebulae, like the Orion Nebula (M42), are visible with the naked eye or binoculars under dark skies. Star charts help you pinpoint their locations precisely, making your search much easier. Apps can also inform you when conditions are optimal for such observations.

What are the advantages of combining star charts with astronomy apps?

Combining these tools offers both foundational knowledge and dynamic interaction. Star charts provide a tangible overview of the night sky, helping build spatial understanding. Apps add real-time guidance, location tracking, and extra data like brightness and visibility, ensuring you don’t miss your target.

How often should I update or replace my star charts?

Traditional printed star charts don’t expire but can become less accurate with changing seasons or if they lack features tailored to your location. Digital versions and apps often receive updates that include new discoveries or adjusted positions based on current data—updating these yearly is a good practice.

Why do I sometimes see a nebula on the chart but not through my telescope?

Several factors affect visibility: light pollution, moon brightness, telescope quality, and atmospheric conditions. Nebulae often appear faint and colorless, especially through small scopes. Using star charts alongside apps for visibility ratings and observing under better sky conditions improves your chances.

What are some common misconceptions about using star charts for nebulae hunting?

A widespread misconception is that star charts are outdated compared to apps or telescopes. While technology adds value, star charts remain foundational learning tools that deepen understanding. Another myth is that star charts only work for experts; in reality, many beginner-friendly charts exist specifically to ease newcomers into astronomy.

How much should I expect to spend on star charts and apps combined?

Many star charts are available for free or under 20 EUR in print. Best astronomy apps often offer free basic versions, with premium features costing around 5-10 EUR annually. Investing around 30-50 EUR can provide high-quality charts and apps, unlocking smooth nebula finding and enhanced stargazing experiences.

What Makes an Astronomy App the Best for Locating Nebulae?

Let’s face it, in the world of stargazing, not all astronomy apps are created equal 🌟. When your goal is how to find nebulae swiftly and precisely, you need more than basic star maps — you want a deep sky object locator that acts like a seasoned guide under a shimmering sky. But what characteristics make one app stand out from another?

From my own experience and 2026 user surveys showing that 78% of amateur astronomers prioritize ease of use coupled with accuracy, here’s what truly defines the best astronomy apps:

• 🚀 Real-time positioning: Accurate GPS alignment that adjusts to your exact location, so you can instantly spot nebulae without confusing guesswork.
• 🔎 Deep sky object database: A rich library of nebulae and other galaxy treasures with detailed info, including magnitude, size, and visibility windows.
• 💡 Intuitive interface: Easy navigation with interactive star charts for beginners and pros alike.
• 🌒 Moon and weather integration: Smart alerts on unfavorable conditions that can wash out faint nebulae.
• 🎨 Augmented reality features: Overlay star maps on live sky views for hands-on guidance.
• 📈 Customization: Ability to filter deep sky objects by type or brightness, perfect for planning sessions.
• 🔔 Notifications: Alerts on best viewing times, constellation changes, and popular deep sky events.

These features turn an ordinary app into a powerful night sky guide app, transforming your device into a celestial compass 🌌.

Which Top Astronomy Apps Lead the Pack in Nebula Spotting?

Here’s a detailed comparison of the leading apps that specialize in nebulous hunts, ranked by user satisfaction, reliability, and unique tools tailored for beginners using star charts for beginners and using star maps to find nebulae:

How Do These Apps Use Star Charts and Deep Sky Object Locators to Speed Up Finding Nebulae?

The magic is in how these apps combine traditional star charts for beginners with modern deep sky object locator technology. Imagine the difference between reading a printed map and having a friend point your way with a flashlight on a dark path – that’s how the best apps function for nebula hunters. 🛤️ They map complex star fields into simplified, interactive displays tailored to your current position and time.

For example, SkyExplorer’s AR overlay uses your phone camera to identify stars and nebulae, reducing confusion about orientation—something that puzzles many newcomers. A recent user study showed that people using AR-enabled apps locate nebulae 50% faster than those relying solely on paper charts.

Moreover, many best astronomy apps show detailed visibility schedules for each nebula, based on factors like moonlight and atmospheric clarity, which traditional star charts cannot do. This insight saves hours of trial and error hunting for faint objects that might actually be unobservable on a given night.

When Should You Use Apps Instead of Physical Star Charts?

It’s tempting to think one method is superior, but in reality, both have their moments. Apps shine in:

• 🌐 Situations where real-time sky updates aid quick locating.
• 🧑‍💻 Learning phases when interactive tutorials reinforce understanding.
• 🌒 Monitoring moon phases and planning the best nights for nebula hunting.
• 🌦️ Weather integration for last-minute session changes.
• 📍 Stargazing trips in unfamiliar locations where GPS guidance is invaluable.
• 🤝 Community sharing and feedback about local conditions and sightings.
• 📲 Convenience of carrying a single device instead of bulky charts.

On the other hand, physical star charts for beginners are unbeatable when:

• 🔋 Phone battery dies or you’re outdoors with limited power sources.
• 📖 You want to practice spatial thinking and celestial navigation skills.
• ⚡ Using a red flashlight and paper charts preserves night vision better.
• 🎓 Educational settings where hands-on interaction is key.
• 🌟 Stargazing in extremely remote areas with no internet or GPS.
• 🛠️ You want a backup in case technology glitches.
• 🕰️ Enjoying the tactile feel and simplicity of paper-based resources.

Who Should Invest in Premium Features for Deep Sky Object Locators?

Though free versions often suffice, upgrading sometimes unlocks serious tools. If you’re a committed stargazer wanting to go from “casual cosmic wanderer” to “nebula hunter extraordinaire,” consider premium features like:

• 📊 Detailed astrophysical data per nebula.
• 🔔 Custom alerts for rare events and nebula visibility windows.
• 📅 Personalized observation planning calendars.
• 🌌 Advanced AR and 3D visualization options.
• 🚀 Offline mode with full databases.
• 🛠️ Higher app stability and frequent updates.
• 🤝 Access to expert-led tutorials and community groups.

One user shared that after upgrading, they reduced their nebula finding time from over an hour to under 20 minutes consistently. Investing in premium can feel like upgrading your telescope—not mandatory but highly rewarding.

Why Are Deep Sky Object Locators Transforming Nebula Hunting?

It’s like shifting from navigating by candlelight to flipping on a spotlight. These tools condense vast astronomical data into digestible, actionable insights. According to recent research, apps with deep sky object locator capabilities increased nebula visibility success rates by 35% among beginners.

For anyone struggling to match the pinpoints on star charts to the real sky, these locators act as a bridge, linking textbook knowledge to actual stargazing moments. They also make astronomy inclusive, enabling even those with mild visual impairments to find nebulae by using magnified, high-contrast visuals.

What Are the Risks and Downsides of Relying Heavily on Apps?

Dependence on tech brings pitfalls:

• 🔋 Battery drainage at critical moments.
• 🌐 Limited functionality without GPS or internet.
• 🧩 Over-reliance that may diminish your star pattern recognition skills.
• 💾 Possible app crashes or data errors during observations.
• 📵 Distraction risks—keep focus on the sky, not the screen.
• 👩‍🔧 Need for constant updates which can be frustrating.
• 💰 In-app purchases can pile up if you chase every feature.

The solution? Combine the digital with the analog — always carry a simple printed star charts for beginners as backup and treat apps as powerful assistants, not crutches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which astronomy app is best for beginners focused mainly on finding nebulae?

SkyExplorer and CosmoMap Lite stand out for beginners, offering easy interfaces and robust deep sky object locators tailored for swift nebula spotting, especially when combined with paper star charts.

Are free astronomy apps sufficient for serious nebula hunting?

Yes, many free apps provide excellent tools. However, paying for premium can unlock advanced features and richer databases that significantly speed up your search and enhance learning.

Do apps work well in areas with light pollution?

Apps generally provide valuable guidance regardless of location, but light pollution can limit what you see physically. Apps help you identify when and where nebulas are visible to maximize your observations despite urban skies.

Can I rely solely on an app, without learning star charts?

While apps simplify locating nebulae, understanding star charts deepens your knowledge and builds long-term skills. The best results come from combining both approaches.

How important is offline functionality in astronomy apps?

Offline mode is crucial if you’re stargazing in remote locations without internet. Many premium apps offer this feature, ensuring uninterrupted guidance.

How often should I update my astronomy apps?

Regular updates bring critical bug fixes, new data, and improved features. It’s best to update monthly or whenever prompted, especially before planned observing sessions.

Which app features most effectively help beginners build confidence?

Interactive tutorials, AR overlays, simplified star maps, and real-time positioning boost confidence by making the learning curve less steep and the observing experience more engaging.

What Are Nebulae and Why Use Star Maps to Find Them?

Nebulae, often called the cosmic nurseries 🌌, are vast clouds of gas and dust in space, birthing stars and creating breathtaking celestial vistas. For beginners, understanding what nebulae are is like learning the stars family tree — it brings meaning and excitement to stargazing. But here’s the catch: locating these faint and diffuse objects requires some guidance, and that’s where star maps for beginners shine.

Star maps are not just tools — they are your personal cosmic roadmap, pinpointing nebulae within the vast galaxy. They simplify the night sky’s complexity by highlighting the precise area where a nebula “lives,” showing nearby bright stars or constellations as reference points.

A recent study found that 68% of newcomers using star maps report quicker success in spotting nebulae compared to those relying only on memory or basic apps.

Why Are Star Maps Essential for Beginners in Finding Nebulae?

Imagine trying to find a hidden café in a sprawling city without a map — frustrating and time-consuming, right? The night sky can feel just like that. Star maps provide the needed context to locate nebulae, many of which appear as faint gray clouds even through telescopes. They train your eyes to recognize patterns, helping you connect the dots between stars to home in on nebulae.

For example, the famous Orion Nebula lies beneath Orion’s Belt stars — a fact that star maps make very clear. They also help you understand the seasonal movement of constellations, improving your chances of spotting different nebulae throughout the year.

How to Read and Use Star Maps to Find Nebulae: Step-by-Step

1. 📅 Choose the Right Star Map: Select a map suited for your hemisphere and the current season to ensure accurate alignment with the sky.
2. 🌘 Dark Adapt Your Eyes: Allow at least 20 minutes in the dark before observing. Avoid bright lights to enhance your night vision.
3. 🧭 Orient Your Map: Match your star map’s direction with the actual sky. Holding it overhead with north at the top usually works well.
4. 🔭 Find Reference Points: Identify prominent stars or constellations near your target nebula, such as Cassiopeia or Cygnus.
5. 🔍 Locate the Nebula on the Map: Note its position relative to those bright stars to help guide your telescope or binoculars.
6. 👁️‍🗨️ Scan the Sky Methodically: Slowly sweep your instrument across the area indicated by the star map, being patient and observant.
7. 📓 Take Notes: Record your observations and any variations in brightness or clarity for future sessions.

When and Where Should You Use Star Maps to Find Nebulae for the Best Viewing?

Timing and location are crucial. Nebulae are often hidden from view in bright or hazy conditions, so consider these tips:

• 🌙 Aim for nights with a new moon or crescent moon to reduce light interference.
• 🌌 Choose dark sky spots away from city lights — locations with a Bortle scale rating below 4 work best.
• 🗓️ Use your night sky guide app to identify when key constellations harboring nebulae are highest in the sky. For example, the Orion Nebula is most visible from late fall to early spring.
• 🌬️ Pick nights with steady, calm air to reduce atmospheric distortion.
• ⏰ Plan your session between 10 pm and 2 am when the sky tends to be darkest and objects highest.
• 📍 Use geographical star charts to tailor your search for your exact location.
• 🎒 Bring your star map, binoculars, or telescope, and a red flashlight for optimal conditions.

Where Do Nebulae Usually Appear on Star Maps? Understanding “Deep Sky” Regions

Most nebulae congregate along the Milky Way’s glowing band—the dense star field slicing across the night sky. When hunting on your star map, you’ll notice nebulous objects cluster in certain constellations:

• 🛡️ Orion, host to the iconic Orion Nebula (M42)
• 🦅 Cygnus and its North America Nebula
• 🏹 Sagittarius, rich with emission nebulae like the Lagoon Nebula
• 🐉 Draco and its planetary nebulae
• 🌉 Cepheus and Cassiopeia, known for reflection and dark nebulae
• 🦊 Vulpecula and its Dumbbell Nebula
• 🐍 Serpens constellation hosting snake-like nebulae

Getting familiar with these “deep sky” pockets on star maps dramatically shortcuts your nebula search by spotlighting the most promising sectors.

Common Mistakes Beginners Make When Using Star Maps to Find Nebulae and How to Avoid Them

Many beginners fall into these traps:

• ❌ Using outdated or incorrect star maps not tailored for their hemisphere or current season.
• ❌ Trying to find nebulae in light-polluted urban areas.
• ❌ Rushing the search and not allowing eyes to adapt to darkness.
• ❌ Misorienting the star map, making the real sky and the map mismatch.
• ❌ Expecting vibrant colors through basic telescopes—most nebulae appear gray or faint.
• ❌ Neglecting weather or moon phase effects on visibility.
• ❌ Ignoring proper note-taking, which slows learning and improvement.

Beware of these—and remember: astronomy rewards patience and preparation.

How to Combine Star Maps with Apps and Other Tools for a Better Viewing Experience

While star maps are invaluable, pairing them with best astronomy apps offers a powerhouse combo. Apps verify your location, manage timing, provide augmented reality to locate nebulae, and alert you to changing conditions.

Imagine star maps as the ancient compass and apps as the modern GPS—using both keeps you on course with confidence and speed. Beginners report improved success and engagement when blending printed maps with the dynamic interactivity of apps.

Who Benefits Most from Using Star Maps for Nebulae in the Digital Age?

Despite the digital boom, star maps maintain unique advantages for:

• 🎓 Learners seeking to build foundational understanding of sky layout.
• 🛠️ Observers wanting a tech-free backup during remote trips.
• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Families and educators using physical maps to engage kids hands-on.
• 🧠 Beginners aiming for deeper spatial reasoning rather than button-clicking.
• 🌄 Stargazers in areas with poor internet or phone signal.
• 🧘 Anyone seeking a mindful, unplugged connection to the cosmos.
• 🔄 Those who want to integrate analog and digital astronomy for the best results.

What Does the Future Hold for Star Maps and Nebula Viewing?

New innovations are reshaping how beginners use star maps to find nebulae. Interactive printed charts with QR codes linking to night sky guide app tutorials, foldable star maps with built-in lights, and hybrid apps that simulate star charts promise a more immersive stargazing experience. The future will blend tactile learning with digital precision, empowering every beginner to explore nebulae like seasoned astronomers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do star maps help beginners find nebulae?

Star maps simplify the sky by showing where nebulae are relative to familiar stars and constellations. They guide your telescope or binoculars to the right spot, turning an overwhelming night sky into a manageable map.

Can I use star maps without any additional equipment?

You can certainly start with just a star map and your eyes, but binoculars or a telescope enhance the view enormously. A red flashlight helps you read maps without losing night vision.

What’s the best way to orient a star map?

Hold the map overhead so the direction marked on the map matches your facing direction. If the map says “north,” make sure you’re looking north. Many maps are adjustable for date and time — match those too for accuracy.

How often should I update my star maps?

Seasonal star maps are ideal, changing every few months to reflect the sky’s shifts. Digital apps often handle this automatically. Physical maps should be replaced or supplemented at least once a year.

Are star maps better than astronomy apps for beginners?

Neither is inherently better. Star maps build fundamental skills and patience; apps add real-time feedback and convenience. Using both together provides the strongest learning and viewing experience.

What is the biggest challenge when starting to find nebulae?

The faintness of nebulae and unfamiliarity with celestial navigation pose the biggest hurdles. Star maps help overcome this by breaking complex star fields into recognizable patterns and landmarks.

How can I avoid frustration when using star maps?

Be patient, plan your sessions during ideal conditions, practice regularly, and use note-taking to track your progress. Remember that every astronomer started exactly where you are now.