ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Star hopping

Okay, so star hopping is like a game of 'follow the leader' with the stars in the night sky. You know that there are many stars in the sky, but it can be hard to find them all without help. So, star hopping is a way to find new stars by using ones you already know.

First, you find a bright star that you recognize, let's call it your guide star. Look up at the sky and find a bright star like the North Star or the brightest star you know, like the Big Dipper. Then, you imagine that your guide star is leading you to other stars.

Next, you draw an imaginary line from your guide star to the star you want to find. You choose a new star that is close to your guide star, making it easier to follow. You might use a map or an app to find the star you want to hop to.

Once you find the new star, is the next guide star so you can hop again to another star. You repeat these steps until you find the star you want to see.

Star hopping is fun and is used by people who like to stargaze as a way to explore the night sky. It takes a little patience and imagination, but it is worth it in the end when you get to see new stars you never knew existed!