Learning someof the constellations is the first step in locating the many beautiful objects of the night sky. We will begin with the most familiar summer constellations and stars in the North Hemisphere, as most people and families are out and about during these warm months of June-September. To begin your journey, you will definitely need a map and a source of light to see it with. A flashlight is needed so we can see in the dark, and read our star chart. Unfortunately, it is too bright, and ruins our night vision, so we make a compromise.
Red light is much better than white light, since it affects our night vision the least.
It only needs to be light enought to see your chart. Best, of course, is to buy a red LED light for astronomy. Red light is the only light to use at a star party . A Star Map is the next important item. A circular star finder, called a Planis phere, will show the stars and constellations for the entire year.