Sterrenalmanak

Sterrenalmanak is a Dutch term for an annual reference work that compiles astronomical data for a given year. It serves as a practical guide for observers and has historically been used by astronomers, navigators, farmers, and educators to plan observations and activities. The name combines ster (star) and almanak (almanac).

Contents typically include ephemerides for the Sun, Moon, planets, and sometimes bright satellites; positions and magnitudes of prominent stars; rising, culminating, and setting times; visibility conditions; and calendars of celestial events such as eclipses, solstices, equinoxes, and planetary conjunctions. Some editions add star charts, sky maps, and introductory notes on observing techniques. The exact scope varies by edition, with some emphasizing practical guidance and others focusing on precise ephemerides and coordinates (for example, right ascension and declination, or ecliptic longitude).

History and use: Almanacs of this type emerged from navigational and agricultural needs and evolved into modern references for amateur astronomy as well as professional planning. The content and format can differ between editions, reflecting changes in astronomical practices and user needs.

Contemporary context: With the rise of digital tools, online ephemerides and planetarium software have supplemented or replaced many printed forms. Nonetheless, the term sterrenalmanak is still used for yearbooks or reference volumes that provide a fixed annual set of astronomical data. The international counterpart is the Astronomical Almanac, published for global astronomical use.