Tom Urbain
About Author
Tom Urbain is an amateur astronomer, astrophotographer, and the original founder of Starlust.org, a space-focused website he launched in 2019 with one simple goal: to make the night sky feel less intimidating and more accessible to everyone. With no formal background in astronomy, Tom taught himself everything from telescope optics to lunar photography - a journey that began as a personal hobby and grew into a widely read online resource for stargazers around the world.
Driven by curiosity and a deep love for space, Tom spent years researching and creating hands-on guides for beginners, testing gear in his backyard in Manchester, and sharing monthly night-sky highlights to help readers reconnect with the cosmos. His approachable writing style and practical advice quickly earned him a loyal audience, many of whom were discovering astronomy for the first time.
In addition to his work with Starlust, Tom also founded Card Codex, a platform dedicated to collectible card games.
When he’s not out chasing meteor showers or photographing the Moon through his telescope, Tom can often be found speaking on podcasts, contributing to astronomy communities, and advocating for dark-sky preservation. He currently lives in Manchester, UK, where despite the glow of city lights, he still manages to find wonder in the stars.
Driven by curiosity and a deep love for space, Tom spent years researching and creating hands-on guides for beginners, testing gear in his backyard in Manchester, and sharing monthly night-sky highlights to help readers reconnect with the cosmos. His approachable writing style and practical advice quickly earned him a loyal audience, many of whom were discovering astronomy for the first time.
In addition to his work with Starlust, Tom also founded Card Codex, a platform dedicated to collectible card games.
When he’s not out chasing meteor showers or photographing the Moon through his telescope, Tom can often be found speaking on podcasts, contributing to astronomy communities, and advocating for dark-sky preservation. He currently lives in Manchester, UK, where despite the glow of city lights, he still manages to find wonder in the stars.
Latest From Tom Urbain
cosmonaut vs astronaut
Why are we using two different words for people who are basically doing the same job? Why are there astronauts on one side and cosmonauts on the other?
What color is the moon
Everybody knows that the Moon is mainly grey. However, upon closer inspection, there might be a few more different shades up there.
Space Memes
Astronomy is a complex subject but it can be fun too! We have collected some of the best space memes on this page for you to enjoy and share around.
Can you see stars in space
Ever since the first moon landing, people have been wondering about the absence of stars in the background of images taken by astronauts.
space movies
If you need a little space adventure while relaxing on your couch with a blanket, check out our rundown of my favorite movies taking place in space!
Lupus Constellation
The Lupus constellation is a part of the southern hemisphere night sky in which a group of close stars together form the outline of a mythical wolf.
planetarium uk
There are about 40 planetariums in the United Kingdom, and we have gathered some information about 8 of our favorite ones in this article.
cosmic soundscapes
From the Sun to Pluto, listen to what the planets of the solar system sounds like when their radio waves are translated into sounds we can hear.
jupiter through a telescope
Observing Jupiter through a telescope is a breathtaking and rewarding experience! Learn how to see this majestic planet with our simple stargazing guide.
space documentary
If you fancy a little bit of space exploration while sitting comfortably on your sofa under a blanket, here is our space documentary selection.
uranus through a telescope
Observing Uranus through a home telescope is at the limit of what amateur astronomers can really do. Good - We love a challenge.
saturn through a telescope
When it comes to observing planets, Saturn is one of the easiest targets to see through a telescope. If you are just getting started, here's what to expect.
venus through a telescope
StarLust has compiled a comprehensive guide to help you observe planet Venus through your home telescope. Stargazing made easy!
mars through a telescope
Mars is among the most popular planet to observe in the night sky. StarLust gives you a few tips and tricks on how you can observe Mars through a telescope.
Planets through a telescope
We tell you everything you need to know on how to observe every planet of our solar system through a telescope. Stargazing made simple.