Professional and amateur astronomers are continuing to sift through and analyze data they collected during the March 18th occultation involving Pluto and a 15th-magnitude star in Sagittarius. It was the best-ever Pluto occultation predicted for North America.

On the morning of January 26th, at least 20 observers spread from Virginia to northern California timed the occultation of the star 32 Lyncis by the asteroid (372) Palma — in spite of the track shifting nearly half a path-width south of what was predicted.

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.

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