1. It is best to view the night sky in a place with no lights around. If you need some light, a flashlight with either a red bulb or a red piece of cellophane works nicely. Red nail polish also works and it won't interfere as much with your night vision as a regular flashlight.

2. Unless you are observing the moon, it is best to view the night sky during a new moon or when the moon rises during the day. Moonlight, even from a crescent, can seriously hinder your view.

3. Bring a chair or a blanket; standing for three hours and staring upward is not very comfortable. If it is rather cool, consider taking an extra blanket or some gloves. Bring some snacks too to keep your energy up and to fend off the midnight munchies.

4. Don't forget your star chart and a pen and paper in case you want to record things you see.

5. If you are taking a telescope, binoculars or a camera along, be sure to let them sit outside for a bit so they can adjust to the temperature before use. 20-30 minutes ought to do it.

6. If it is breezy or even windy, consider observing in an area near a wall or corner of a building to help block wind and avoid camera/telescope shake.

• 7. A good beginner telescope, it can cost a few hundred dollars, but a quality telescope is key. Brands such as Meade, Orion and Celestron have a good reputation. Another option is to try a pair of higher magnification binoculars.

Q: What star is second closest to the Earth after our Sun?

A: Proxima Centauri

Q; What is a meteor shower?

A: An event in which numerous meteors fall through the Earth's atmosphere with nearly the same trajectories. During specifically named showers; the Perseids for example, most meteors seem to originate from one particular radiant; in this case, the constellation Perseus.

Q: What is a comet made of?

A: Various kinds of rock, dust, ice and frozen gases. Comets are therefore often described as "dirty snowballs".

Q: Why is Venus called Earth's sister planet?

A: It is very similar in size and chemical composition. Both planets also have very few craters, indicating they may both have fairly "young" surfaces.