Astronomy Binocular
Astronomy Binocular
First, whatever you do, don't buy a telescope from a department store or drug store! The telescopes you'll find there, while cheap, are typically of very low quality. They're appropriate for a child in elementary school: If the child breaks it, you're out only a modest amount of money. But if you're buying for a teenager or an adult, buy from a store that specializes in telescopes, or buy online. Good telescope brand names include Antares, Orion, no prescription drugs Celestron, and Meade.
While there are several types of telescopes, most beginners would do well to purchase what is called a "Dobsonian" telescope. Dobsonian telescopes (or "Dobs") are relatively low-cost, yet high-quality telescopes. Generally speaking, they do not have any high-tech, computerized gadgets on them. Yet their optics are just as good as the overwhelming majority of computerized telescopes that cost thousands of dollars. Once you gain some experience using a Dob -- and should you eventually decide to make astronomy into a serious hobby -- you might one day purchase a more expensive "Schmidt-Cassegrain" or "apochromatic refracting telescope." But start with a Dob!
Astronomers compare telescopes primarily by the diameter of their main ("primary") mirrors. This is referred to as the "aperture" of the telescope. You'll want to get a Dob with an aperture of either 6 inches (150 mm), 8 inches (203 mm), or 10 inches (254 mm).
If you can afford it, purchase either an 8 or 10 inch version: The larger the diameter of the mirror, the easier it is for you to see dim objects (like galaxies and nebulae) in the night sky. Prices range from roughly $230 USD for 6-inch apertures to $500 USD for 10-inch apertures. The telescope should come with two or three eyepieces: If it doesn't, shop somewhere else. You'll use the eyepieces to control the magnification of the telescope. For example, with one eyepiece in the telescope, you can see the entire surface of the Moon. But with another eyepiece, you can zoom in on a crater.
Also, consider purchasing the following accessories:
Nightwatch: A Practical Guide to Viewing the Universe -- a really good introductory book by author Terence Dickinson;
A subscription to Astronomy magazine -- a monthly publication with beautiful photos, a guide to the night sky, product reviews, and the latest astronomy news;
Some astronomy software -- such as Name A Star Live's Virtual Planetarium™ software;
A planisphere -- Use this simple, lightweight, handheld device to identify constellations and major stars in the night sky;
An inexpensive pair of binoculars -- These are good for helping you navigate around the night sky as you search for a galaxy, nebula, or star to observe through your telescope; and
A TELRAD -- Most telescopes come with a very small telescope, called a "finderscope," mounted on top of the main telescope. As the name implies, a finderscope helps you find the astronomical object you're looking for through your main telescope. But most astronomers prefer to use a TELRAD -- a battery-powered device that projects a red bullseye in the night sky. It's much easier to aim a telescope with a TELRAD than with a finderscope.
These tools will help you learn the constellations, and otherwise help you get started in astronomy. Also, consider joining a local astronomy club where you can gain experience using various types of telescopes, and get help learning the night sky.
Happy stargazing!
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Tagged with: Astronomer • Astronomy Binocular • Department Store • Dobsonian Telescope • Quality Telescope
Orion SkyQuest XT8 Classic Dobsonian Telescope
by Orion
375% Sales Rank in Camera & Photo: 307 (was 1,459)
(9)
Buy new: $329.95
(Ranking is updated hourly. Visit the Movers & Shakers in Camera & Photo list for authoritative information on this product’s current rank.)
The simple rule for cleaning a mirror in a reflecting telescope is DONT. The coatings on the mirror are very delicate and easy to damage. Dust isn't a big deal. If the mirror is absolutely filthy then you will probably have to clean it but only if it is extremely dirty.
When cleaning you never want to apply any pressure at all to the surface. Typically speaking, you would want to lay the mirror in a basin filled with warm water and a tiny bit of dish detergent (and I mean a tiny bit). Then, with sterile cotton balls, very gently brush the surface of the mirror applying no pressure at all from the middle outward. Once done, rinse off the mirror first with clean tap water to get rid of any soapy water, then rinse it with distilled water. It must be distilled so that it won't leave behind residues. Use an air blower bulb to try and push water droplets off the mirror and you can even dab up remaining water with cotton balls or a paper towel, but do not actually attempt to dry the mirror off by rubbing it.
Aftr this it may not look perfectly impeccable but it should be significantly cleaner than it was before if it was filthy.
RT Olympic protesters smash department store windows in Vancouver (via
I have no idea WHY you are giving everyone a thumbs down. Most of us with solid tube DOBS either put them in the backseat of a car, and strap them in using the safety belts, or buy a custom made bag like this one from Orion:
http://www.telescope.com/control/accessories/cases-and-telescope-covers/46-inchx13*5-inchx18*5-inch-orion-padded-telescope-case
Store manager Barbaka Kirk (center) with our department of the week – Handbags!!!