Home / Tools / Stargazing Night ChecklistStargazing Night ChecklistGood nights are planned. Reset the ticks each observing session.Print checklist0 of 16 doneResetPlanCheck cloud cover and seeing forecastsCheck the Moon phase for deep-sky targetsPick 3-5 targets and when they riseChoose a dark, safe siteGearTelescope or binocularsSee: Best Astronomy Binoculars for Wide Starfields (2026) →Low, medium and high power eyepiecesSee: Best Plossl Eyepieces for Sharp, Value Views (2026) →Finder or red dot finder aligned in daylightSee: Best Red Dot Finders for Quick, Easy Aiming (2026) →Red flashlightSee: Best Red Flashlights to Protect Night Vision (2026) →Charged batteries for GoTo mounts and dew heatersSee: Best Dew Heaters to Keep Optics Clear (2026) →Set upSet up 30-60 minutes early so the optics coolCheck collimation on reflectorsSee: Best Collimators for Razor-Sharp Optics (2026) →Start with low power to find targetsLet your eyes dark adapt for 20-30 minutesComfortWarm layers, hat and hand warmersSee: Best Hand Warmers for Cold Observing Nights (2026) →Chair for comfortable viewingLog what you observed