ASTRO.JS is a modern light weight super fast javascritp framework. Unlike traditional SPAs (Single Page Applications) that send all JavaScript to the client, Astro focuses on shipping minimal code, resulting in incredibly fast page loads. It embraces the concept of "Island Architecture," allowing you to use your favorite UI frameworks for interactive componentswand run static html.
Step 1: Ensure You Have Node.js Installed
Before you can start with Astro, you need to have Node.js installed on your system. Astro requires Node.js version 18.14.1 or higher.
Step 2: Create a New Astro Project
The easiest way to start a new Astro project is by using the create astro command. This interactive command-line tool will guide you through the initial setup. Open your terminal and run the following command.
- npm create astro@latest
Step 3: Follow the Interactive Setup Prompts
After running npm create astro@latest, you'll be presented with a series of prompts. Here's a breakdown of what to expect and how to respond:
Where should we create your new project?: Enter the name of your project directory. For example, my-astro-blog.
Would you like to install the recommended dependencies?: Type y and press Enter. This will install essential dependencies for your project.
How would you like to set up your new project?: For a basic setup, you can choose Empty. If you want a pre-configured blog or portfolio, you can select one of the other options. For this tutorial, let's assume Empty.
Would you like to use TypeScript?: For beginners, No is fine. If you're comfortable with TypeScript, feel free to choose Yes.
Would you like to initialize a new git repository?: Type y if you plan to use Git for version control (recommended).
Step 4: Navigate into Your Project Directory
Once the installation is complete, change your current directory to your newly created project folder:
- cd my-astro-blog
Step 5: Start the Development Server
Run the following script
- npm run dev
Step 6: View Your Astro Project in the Browser
After running npm run dev, you'll see a message in your terminal indicating the local development URL, usually http://localhost:4321/.
Open your web browser and navigate to that URL. You should see a basic Astro welcome page, confirming that your project is running successfully!
Conclusion
Starting an Astro.js project is incredibly straightforward. With just a few commands, you can have a blazing-fast development environment up and running. Astro's focus is on performance and flexibility making it an excellent choice for a wide range of web projects. Alternatively you exclude using the create astro command. Then instead use cli to run your project using the minimal project structure.
Either way have lots of fun and enjoy your time with astro.js and don't stop building.
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