We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.

In the Night Sky

Orion

Monica Grady, Dean Roberts, Paul Streeter, Thomas Barrett, and Bonny Barkus

Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more You do not need a professional telescope for this course, but you may find at least a pair of binoculars extremely useful. No prior experience of the subject is required. You can use the hashtag #FLOrion to talk about this course on social media.

Topics Covered

Find the constellation of Orion in the night sky
Learn all about the legend of Orion
Discover how the constellations were used for navigation
Discover the amazing process that causes stars to form
Find out what happens to different stars over their lifetime
Learn what happens when stars run out of fuel
Find out what the night sky can reveal about the Big Bang theory
Get involved with classifying galaxies into different shapes
Take a tour of space through the PIRATE telescope
Find out what is important about the Earth’s position
Discuss whether you think there are other planets just like ours
Find out about The Open University’s project to map the stars

Enroll now

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.

Save

Reviews summary

Beginner's guide to the orion night sky

According to learners, this course is a positive and accessible introduction to stargazing focusing on the Orion constellation. Students particularly appreciated the clarity of explanations and the engaging content covering legends, star life cycles, and a tour via the PIRATE telescope. While considered excellent for absolute beginners, some found it too basic or wished for more depth on certain topics or practical observing tips. Overall, it successfully helps learners feel confident spotting Orion and understanding fundamental astronomy.

Some found it engaging, others slow.

"The content was presented clearly and the quizzes helped solidify my understanding."

"Parts were interesting... but other sections felt a bit dry."

"The pace was very slow in the early modules."

Topics are interesting and well-explained.

"It made finding Orion so easy and the legends were fascinating."

"The explanations of star life cycles were clear and engaging."

"The tour of the PIRATE telescope was a highlight."

Excellent starting point for beginners.

"Perfect for someone like me with no background in astronomy."

"Fantastic introduction to the night sky."

"Highly recommend for beginners. Covers the basics well."

Could use more guidance for observing.

"Could have included more practical tips for using binoculars."

"I wanted more advice on actual stargazing technique and equipment."

Lacks depth if you have prior knowledge.

"Much too basic. If you've read even one book on astronomy, this course will likely be redundant."

"While it covers many topics, some sections felt a bit brief."

"It's okay as a very basic introduction; didn't learn much new."

Career center

Learners who complete In the Night Sky: Orion will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

We've selected 50 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in In the Night Sky: Orion.

The Exoplanet Handbook

Save

This foundational academic textbook suitable for graduate students and researchers. It offers comprehensive coverage of exoplanet science, including detection methods, characterization, formation, interiors, atmospheres, and habitability. It's an invaluable reference tool updated with recent developments and mission results.

In the Night Sky

Topics Covered

Topics Covered

Save this course

Reviews summary

Beginner's guide to the orion night sky

Career center

Reading list

Share

Similar courses

Futurelearn Buyer Protection & Guarantee

Free Access on Short Courses

14-Day Cooling-Off Refund Window

Verified Academic & Industry Partner