Beginner Set Up

Laser Collimator

Collimation: A Handy Guide for Dobsonian Telescopes

It may seem like it is overemphasized by astronomy groups, but collimation is very important. Collimation is the practice of aligning the primary and secondary mirrors with the focuser. It is done with the assistance of various tools and it gives the viewer the clearest view possible with their scope in their conditions. There is…
Hobby Killer

What Is a Hobby Killer? Telescopes You Don’t Want

The term hobby killer is thrown around on forums almost daily. There are some telescopes that people commonly call worthless hobby killers. There are other things that are bigger hobby killers than your equipment.  A hobby killer is what many astronomers call a telescope that is difficult for a beginner to use and may be…
Beginner Telescope

Do Telescopes Hold Their Value?: What is a Telescope Worth?

If you’ve started shopping for a telescope, you’ve probably noticed a huge range of prices. You might be wondering how much you need to spend, what the difference is between a cheap and expensive telescope, and how well it will hold its value should you decide to sell it down the road. In this article…
Red Head Lamp

How Long Does It Take Your Eyes To Become Dark Adapted? (For Observing)

When I first got my scope I was told that I needed to avoid bright light for an hour or more before observing. I took the sleep mask that came with a mattress I purchased and tried to walk around with it on. It was ridiculous, and unnecessary.  Dark adapted vision occurs between 20 and…
Clear Outside vs. Astrospheric

Weather Apps for Astronomy: Astrospheric vs. ClearOutside

I bet you didn’t know you were going to be so interested in the weather when you bought your telescope. Clouds suddenly became much more interesting to me when I began observing.  Apps for astronomy show cloud cover, dew point, temperate, and how these things are forecasted to change over the course of the night….
Truss Tube Dob

What Is Active Dew Control? A Handy Guide

When you start looking into astronomy there are a lot of things to learn. I learned quickly that I would need something to prevent dew from forming on my mirrors and eyepieces.  Active dew control means using tools and devices to control the temperature of your telescope to discourage the formation of dew. Tools like…
High Quality Telescope Filter

Light Pollution Filter: Will a Light Pollution Filter Help In a Bortle 6?

Light pollution is a big hindrance to observing for people who live in cities. Light pollution filters may help in some situations.  Light pollution filters will help increase contrast and block out certain wavelengths of light. Expect to be able to see objects with greater clarity, more detail and contrast. Light pollution filters do not…
Buy Used Telescopes

What To Look For When Buying a Used Telescope: A Helpful Guide

Buying a used telescope is not that difficult. You just need to know what to look for.   When buying a used telescope, buy from another astronomer, check the mechanical parts, and be sure to look at the glass. Note the overall condition, dents and paint chips, as they may indicate how well the owner has…
Dobsonian Optical Tube

Can I Take a Telescope Out In the Cold? A Handy Guide

What if you got the telescope for Christmas? Are you doomed to wait till warmer weather before you go observing? How does the cold affect your telescope? Telescopes function best at ambient temperature. This is the temperature of the air. To observe in the cold, allow your telescope 30 minutes to an hour to come…
Observing Chair

Do I Need an Observing Chair? The Key to Comfortable Observing

I had a 10 inch Dobsonian for a few months before I invested in my observing chair. I spent some time considering my options.  Serious amature astronomers should get a highly adjustable observing chair. There are several available to purchase, but you can also build your own or try using a seat you already have….