Top Activities For An Astronomy Enthusiast With Dogs

Introduction

Celestial objects have always been a source of fascination for most people. After all, a single glance at the sky at night can bring us lots of awe and wonder. For astronomy enthusiasts, there is a certain joy that comes with observing the different objects that are seen by the unaided eye. This hobby is actually quite common, with a lot of people engaging in both amateur astronomy as a pastime and in a more professional setting. A good way to make your hobby even more fun is by bringing your dog with you on your astronomy-related activities.

Stargazing

Popular

0 Votes

Any Day

Free

Easy

1 hr

Items needed

Telescope

Star map

Binoculars

Leash

Waste Bags

Activity description

Stars are a favorite among astronomy enthusiasts; they are interesting, full of wonder and really nice to look at. There is more to stars than what meets the eye, which is why astronomy lovers take precious time off their routine to go stargazing. The great thing about stargazing is that you get to bring your dog with you without having to worry about rules or having other people around. While stargazing, you and your dog can view at and chart the stars, look for constellations and simply enjoy each other’s company. What’s more, this activity is totally free and can be done from just about anywhere.

Step

1

Find a stargazing spot

To go stargazing, prepare the equipment you need and find a spot where you can go watch the stars. You can set up a blanket or tent in your backyard for your stargazing session. You can even take things further and drive to an elevated spot with a nice view that your dog can enjoy.

Step

2

Check out the stars

Once you find your spot, set up your blanket and sit with your dog. Use your star map to navigate the night sky and find specific stars that you would like to see. You may also use a star map app in case you do not have a physical one. Using your telescope or binocular, go stargazing while your dog keeps you company. Keep them close by at all times and if they signal they have had enough, pack up and save the stars for another adventure.

Add your dog's photo

Astronomy Club

Popular

0 Votes

Any Day

Moderate

Easy

2 hrs

Items needed

Leash

Telescope

Activity description

Astronomy is a field that can be enjoyed by people from all walks of life. Therefore, it should not be too difficult to find individuals who share the same passion as you. It would be an even better bonus if these astronomy enthusiasts are dog lovers, too. You can start your own dog lovers’ astronomy club in your area to find some like-minded people with whom you can do certain activities with, whether related to astronomy or dogs (or both). Having an astronomy club also allows members to share knowledge with each other, discuss certain equipment and organize meetings. After all, things are more fun when done with other people.

Step

1

Find potential members

The first step you have to take is to find the right people who can become members of your club. You may post on a local forum or even on social media to ask about who might be interested in joining your club. You can also go to your local dog park and mingle with the other dog owners there to see if they are interested in astronomy, too.

Step

2

Organize activities together

Once you have collected a couple of members, you can start organizing activities that you can do together with your furbabies. Start with something simple such as watching stars at night with your dogs. In the long run, you can start planning more events on a regular basis as your club grows bigger. Suggestions can be field trips to dog-friendly astronomy museums or potluck gatherings before a special stargazing night.

Add your dog's photo

Meteor Shower

Popular

0 Votes

Any Day

Free

Easy

30 - 60 min

Items needed

Telescope

Leash

Waste Bags

Activity description

Meteor showers are a celestial occurrence wherein several meteors are observed moving through the sky. This sensation is caused by meteoroids, which are cosmic debris, entering the atmosphere of Earth at tremendously high speeds. These showers only happen a couple of times in a year, which is why a lot of people tune in and watch out for them when they occur. You can make this rare occasion an even more special one by having your dog by your side while you wait for the shooting stars to pass by the sky. This is a free and enjoyable activity where you can even make a wish for a longer life with your pooch!

Step

1

Find out the schedule

By doing a quick search online, you can easily find the schedule of the meteor showers that will occur in the entire year. These lists even include the best time for viewing so take note of these dates and times. You can save a reminder on your planner or smartphone so you won’t forget.

Step

2

Watch the shooting stars

On the day of the meteor shower, prepare your telescope or binoculars and take out a lawn chair or blanket to your backyard. Provide a dog bed or blanket for your pooch as well. At around midnight, start waiting for the meteors to start shooting through the sky. Use your telescope or binoculars to see the shooting stars up close. Snuggle with your dog and enjoy this marvel.

Add your dog's photo

More Fun Ideas...

Take a Night Stroll

Walking your dog is a must, especially if your dog has exercise requirements that must be met. Normally, owners take their dogs out for walks during the day. But if you want to hit two birds with one stone, why not go for a walk at night? That way you can go observe the stars while helping your dog get a workout in.

Watch Astronomy-related Shows

For an astronomy enthusiast, shows about anything astronomy-related are a must-see. There are lots of science shows that are specifically focused on these topics. Just flip the channel and watch your favorite show while your dog is cuddled up beside you.

Conclusion

Astronomy is an interesting field that offers a lot of possible recreational activities. If you are an astronomy enthusiast who also happens to be a dog lover, then there are lots of ways for you to enjoy your hobby without leaving your dog at home. The aforementioned activities are just some of the options that you and your pooch can try; give it a go and have fun under the stars!