Learn more about the patterns in the sky by following the links below or try this activity and find out how to track the motions of the sun using a sundial.
U.S. Naval Observatory Data Online
Virtual Reality Moon Phase Pictures
Earth and Moon Viewer
Center for Archaeoastronomy
A great monthly journal of what's up in the sky for naked-eye observers: planets, constellations, dates of moon phases, altitude of noontime sun. Skycharts and nice explanations included. Also, ideas and activities for classroom and outdoor explorations.
This online almanac is the place to go if you want to find out anything about the rising and setting of moon and sun for any date past, present or future. Need to know when the next eclipse is? What phase the moon will be in on your birthday next year? How high the sun will be at noon on the 4th of July? You can find it here! Check your own observations of moon and sun against the almanac.
Specify any date between 1800 and 2199 A.D., and you'll get a little picture of the phase of the moon on that date. Run by the Time Service Department of the U.S. Naval Observatory.
This web simulation allows you to view the earth or moon as if you were looking back from a space ship 100,000 kilometers away. Which continents are in darkness and where is it daytime right now? What would the moon look like if you were viewing it from the sun instead of from the earth? You can find out at this site.
Sundials
This list of links from the University of Texas at Austin leads you to everything you might want to know about these timekeeping devices: their history, how to make one and a tour of some wonderful sundial examples around the world.
Visit this site for an introduction to the patterns in the sky recognized by past cultures around the world. Run by the University of Maryland, the Center for Archeoastronomy studies the "astronomical practices, celestial lore, mythologies, religions and world-views of all ancient cultures."
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