The fabulous northern lights forecast for last week didn't materialize - the magnetic field was pointed the wrong way.
Then if you gave up on the Geminids last weekend and went to bed - the skies cleared around midnight.
But there's one last chance to see something cool and magical in the skies, and it's not only visible at a sensible hour, you have a window to see it of at least a week.
You can find more stargazing advice, stories and news at Astro Bob's Astronomy for Everyone.
Bob King's Holiday Teloscope-Gifting Guide!
My goal was to find telescopes that combined quality and affordability for $300 or less. I'm not associated with the companies that make or sell these instruments. You'll find full details and photos about each of the telescopes at the links below.
* Orion 4.5-inch Starblast Tabletop reflecting telescope $219
* Orion SkyQuest XT6 Classic Dobsonian reflector $300
* Sky-watcher 6-inch f/8 Traditional Dobsonian reflector $315
* Orion VersaGo E-series 90mm (3.5-inch) Altazimuth refractor $180
If I were to pick just one of these, I'd go with either of the 6-inch models. Keep in mind you may also want to buy a few accessories down the line such as better quality eyepieces, a star atlas and a red flashlight to preserve your night vision while observing. For an awesome little atlas I highly recommend the Pocket Sky Atlas ($24.95).
