A graduate of Steubenville High School, Cody Saltsman was involved in numerous extracurricular activities during his time as a student and participated in one of the school's most rigorous academic programs, earning him a Steubenville City Schools University Scholars award. Cody Saltsmanalso maintains an interest in scientific fields such as physics and astronomy.

Amateur astronomy is a form of independent study that anyone with a passion for learning can seek.

Those who are beginning to study astronomy should visit their library and gather reading materials to first learn about the night sky. Becoming familiar with astronomy's terminology as well as the names of prominent stars and constellations is the first step, as is understanding how these stars move throughout the sky over the course of a night. Seasons and the time of day impact stars' positions, so it is beneficial to learn these patterns.

Once these elements have become familiar or memorized, those studying astronomy should learn the locations of each distinctive point in the night sky.

Beyond a certain point, one major goal of an amateur astronomer is to develop the ability to look at the night sky and point out the different stars, constellations, planets, and galaxies without using a guide. Beginners can use maps and charts to identify these celestial bodies, plus more that are difficult to see with the naked eye. While viewing the sky, it is a good idea to keep a journal to track objects spotted and record a given night's viewing for future sessions.