Late summer is one of the best times of year to view the full splendor of our galaxy, the Milky Way.

The Milky Way used to be visible on every clear, moonless night, everywhere in the world. Today, however, most people live in places where it’s impossible to see the Milky Way because of widespread light pollution caused by lights left on all night long. Seeing the Milky Way requires a special effort for most people, but it’s well worth the trouble.

read more The Milky Way: How to See It in the Summer Night Sky.