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
A Guide to Binoculars
To understand the working principle of binoculars, first you need to know a little about telescopes. In fact, this is exactly what binoculars are, two identical telescopes placed next to each other.
The 88 Modern Constellations
The International Astronomical Union officially recognizes 88 constellations with defined borders encompassing the entire northern and southern hemispheres.
Images of extraterrestrial world surfaces
Take a look at the diverse imagery and unique characteristics of the eight extraterrestrial terrains where humanity has successfully deployed robotic explorers.
How long does it take to get to each planet?
Unsurprisingly, the answer is not set in stone. Variables like the planet's position, spacecraft speed, trajectory, payload weight, and fuel efficiency come into play.
how to identify a meteorite
You pick up a strange-looking rock, its surface unlike anything you've seen before, and for a moment, you wonder: Could this be a fragment from space?
New Moons Explained
The moon has been a constant, mesmerizing presence in our night sky. Yet, once a month, it seemingly vanishes, leaving the night sky dark and empty.
Andromeda Constellation
Looking up at the night sky in the autumn months, one can't miss the striking shape of the constellation Andromeda.
How to Get Your Meteorite Tested by a Laboratory
From understanding the initial indicators that differentiate a meteorite from a mere Earth rock to the nitty-gritty of working with specialized labs, my article will walk you through every step.
Space tourists are not astronauts
In the age of commercial space travel, the line between astronauts and space tourists has become increasingly blurred.
Can astronauts bring personal belongings to space with them?
Packing for space is not your average vacation checklist. Learn what astronauts are allowed to bring for their emotional and psychological well-being.
How Do I Contact a Meteorite Buyer?
Navigate the world of meteorite selling with ease. Our guide on how to contact a meteorite buyer will help you through every step, from discovery to sale.
When is the next blue moon?
Experience the wonder of the Blue Moon. Find out when to gaze up at the night sky with our guide to the next five dates and times.
When is the next new moon?
Chase the moonless nights! Get your calendar set with the dates and times for the upcoming 12 New Moons.
When is the next supermoon?
Mark your calendars! Dive into the upcoming Supermoon dates & peak viewing times.
the night sky in March
As spring awakens in the Northern Hemisphere, explore the unique celestial marvels in this transformative period.
the night sky in February
Despite its brief length, February offers an impressive spectacle in the night sky. Amid the winter's peak, our guide will lead you through the icy, star-studded nights.
the night sky in April
April 2024 offers a double treat: flowers unfolding by day and stars unveiling by night. Here's your daily guide to the cosmic dance overhead.
When is the next full moon?
Whether you're an avid moon gazer, a lunar lover, or simply someone planning a special evening under the moonlight, my calendar will guide you through the dates and times of each full moon in 2024.
When is the full moon in May?
Discover the Flower Full Moon 2024 date and time in May. Learn about this unique full moon phase, why it's special, and how best to view it.
When is the full moon in April?
Discover the Pink Full Moon 2024 date and time in April. Learn about this unique full moon phase, why it's special, and how best to view it.