Learning more about space and the cosmos and even our own planet can be fascinating. However, if you truly want to learn about the darkness all around us, reading books and watching TV shows will only do so much. Like anything, with space, the best way to learn will usually be to get practical.
Whilst you may not be able to head off to space yourself for a closer look (although one day, this might not be such a far-fetched idea and the price of space tourism is already looking set to drop), simple astronomical telescopes could be all it takes for you to grasp more about what is around us. Whilst it is all very well to read about meteors and solar systems, it is often not until you see the sights for yourself through telescopes that you can truly grasp the magnitude and the intricacies of what lies further out in the universe.
It is also easier than ever to get great telescopes at low prices. Today, even fairly low-cost amateur telescopes can help us see as much as the very best scientists would have not too long ago. There are also plenty of ways that you could use such items to actually help scientists too, such as using your astronomical telescopes to study the sky for potential celestial bodies that might cause harm to the earth (you may be surprised at how many amateurs are charged with studying the sky for such things and informing professional about their findings).
Ultimately, there are very few things in life as fascinating or as limitless in potential as the universe itself. For those looking for a more interesting and rewarding pastime, studying the sky is likely to be something that gives brand new treats every single day and helps you learn more about the very nature of life and existence at the same time.