The Nighttime Sky

[Nighttide]

Hello! I am looking for historical accuracy of what the nighttime sky looked like from a particular place and time, and I am hoping someone can point me in the right direction. Specifically, facing SE on Christmas around 10pm. How would I find out what can be seen in the sky at that time? Is it the same year after year? The same across the US or varies by region? Thank you in advance! PS: I am a visual thinker, so images would be extremely helpful. 

[Rallemikken]

Stellarium. Set place and time as you wish.

[Nighttide]

I am absolutely giddy! Thank you SO MUCH!!

[Spile]

If you prefer analogue, the planisphere is traditional and cheap way to identify what you will see at a particular time and date https://www.skyatnightmagazine.com/advice/skills/how-to-use-a-planisphere/

[RT65CB-SWL]

Hi @Nighttide and welcome to SGL. 

As suggested by @Rallemikken Stellarium which is free for PC/Mac/Linux. The version for mobile phones and tablets is a paid app.

Other planetarium/star-chart programs are also available, (free or paid). Some even go back to BCE dates.

Edited July 3, 2022 by Philip R

[Nighttide]

You guys are just so awesome! Thank you!!