Watch in your telescope as the edge of the Moon snaps a star out of sight.

Lunar and planetary occultations may be appreciated for their intrinsic beauty, but in order to contribute scientifically valid data you need to apply certain techniques.

Occultations of stars and planets by the Moon and asteroids are exciting to watch, and amateur occultation timings can have real scientific value. But first you need to know what occultations will be happening in your area.

Many households now possess a camcorder. Many amateur astronomers may be unaware that these devices are sensitive enough to record occultation events.