Gear

Spotting Scope as a Telescope

Can You Use a Spotting Scope for Astronomy?

Spotting scopes are designed to be used when viewing things on Earth, but they are a low cost way to see some objects in the night sky as well.  Spotting scopes can be used as telescopes, but they are not as versatile as telescopes for astronomy.  The quality of your image will depend on the…
Star Diagonal on Reflector

How to Fix Upside Down Telescope Image

Telescopes are made of mirrors and lenses that are designed to collect as much light as possible. In order to gather as much light as possible telescopes often do not add extra glass to correct the image.  Use an erecting prism or erecting eyepiece with your telescope to flip the image. These mirrors or prisms…
DIY Telescope Counterweights

DIY Telescope Counterweights: Ideas to Try Out

Telescope counterweights are used to make tracking objects smooth and allow them to move more easily.  Counterweights are most often used on equatorial mounted telescopes, but they can also be helpful on alt-az mounted telescopes. Counterweights are used to balance the weight of the telescope like a see saw. When the weight is close to…
Telescope with Diagonal

Star Diagonals: Mirror Vs. Prism

If you are shopping for your first telescope, you might notice that some models include a device called a diagonal.  In this article I’ll explain what a diagonal does, describe the different types of diagonals, and discuss whether you should consider upgrading the unit supplied with your purchase. A star diagonal is a device which…
Focal Length Explained

Long vs. Short Focal Length Telescope: Which is better?

Focal length is the distance light must travel from when it enters the scope to where it exits at the eyepiece. This is one of the most important metrics on any telescope. Short focal lengths may be better for beginners because as a general rule they are smaller, lighter and more intuitive. Longer focal length…
Equatorial vs. Dobsonian Telescope Mount

Dobsonian Vs. Equatorial Mount Compared: 49 Opinions

Telescope mounts have a big impact on how you can use your telescope. Dobsonian mounts are often recommended for beginners, but Equatorial mounts are preferred for astrophotography.  Dobsonian mounts are very intuitive and easy to use, they require no setup and you get a lot of aperture with a low budget. Equatorial mounts are the…
Bode's Galaxy Image by Mike Durak

Five Reasons Your Telescope Is Tracking Poorly (And What to Do About It)

It’s a wonderful time to be an amateur astronomer. Many affordable telescope kits are now equipped with electronic mounts, capable of finding and tracking thousands of celestial objects at the push of a few buttons. Some of these “Go-To” systems can even be controlled via Wi-Fi from your phone. But with new technology comes new…
Telescope On Tripod with Mount

Telescope Mounts: A Handy Guide

There are two types of telescope mounts, with variations within each category. The type of mount you have will determine the type of observing you do. While I did not think about mounts too much with my first scope, now that I am looking into imaging the mount is more important than the telescope.  Choose…
DIY Telrad Riser Mount

Where to Install a Telrad: A Guide for Dobsonian Telescopes

A Telrad finder is a great piece of equipment for any astronomy setup. Installing it is simple and does not require any tools.  Install a telrad to the right of the focuser, next to the finderscope if one is installed. You can choose to remove the finderscope and replace it with a telrad. The telrad…
Jupiter Image by Mike Ducak

Should You Buy a Telescope If You Live in the City?

Stargazing is an activity which works best away from city lights. But what if you live in the suburbs, or a dense city center? Is it pointless to invest in a telescope? It is still worth considering a telescope if you live in the city. With the right equipment and expectations there are some good…