10 Christmas crackers for your new telescope

So Santa brought you a telescope - what now? Stuart Atkinson sprinkles some cosmic sparkle, with 10 sights to see over one fabulous festive night - from glorious galaxies and planets to glittering star clusters

- Stuart Atkinson

You may have bought this December issue of BBC Sky at Night Magazine because you've been given - or you've treated yourself to - a new telescope for Christmas.

And you may be wondering what to do with it now you've got it. If so, we're here to help!

Every stargazer starts here. Even those with Dobsonian telescopes the size of a WW2 battleship cannon or the latest computer-controlled astrophotography rigs once stood where you are now and asked: “So... what do I do next?”.

If you haven't got a clue what to look at through your new telescope as darkness falls on Christmas Day, this feature is for you. Think of it as a cosmic selection box of fascinating festive treats, sights that will make you say “Wow!” and call your family away from the TV - as they munch their way through another box of chocolates - to come outside and share the view.

This tour is split into two sessions, so you can enjoy the first half early in the evening (from around 6pm), then head inside to warm up before going back outside at around 9pm to see the rest. And you can do it any night over Christmas week; just be aware the Moon will change position and get brighter.

Ready? Then let's get started. We'll begin with the easiest targets, the sights you'll see if you look to the south after the sky darkens on Christmas Day...

PART ONE Start at around 6pm...

1. The Moon

The Moon is the easiest celestial object to find in the night sky because it's so bright. You've seen it countless times, but tonight your new telescope will reveal it as never before.