Telescopes are not only amazing, but are delicate and potentially dangerous if used incorrectly. For those who have kids and want to know more about some telescope safety tips, look no further! Look But Dont…
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When looking in the sky, there are several easy and well known globular cluster that are visible from the Pacific Northwest and other Northern Hemisphere observing locations. M13 Hercules Globular Cluster When Visible: May to…
Some of the first questions that amateur astronomers have when first observing planets is when to can each planet be observed and how large of a telescope is required to see them. NEVER look at…
In this article, we will be discussing what a finderscope is, the different types, the best ones, and how to align a finderscope with the main telescope lens. What is a Finderscope? A finderscope is…
A focal reducer, otherwise known as a telecompressor, is an optical element used to reduce focal length, increase lens speed, and in some instances improve optical transfer function performance. Although the popular applications include photography, videography, and astrophotography, we will be focusing on the…
Here are a bunch of questions that should always be considered for buyers of a new telescope, regardless of the skill level of the astronomer using it. Whether it be your first or third telescope,…
What is a telescope? How do they work and what are they used for? These are some of the most basic questions about the topic of telescopes, but some of the most important in regards…
Named after Peter Barlow, the Barlow lens is a diverging lens which, which is used in series with other optics in an optical system to increase the effective focal length of an optical system. This increased focal length of the optical…
A dew shield is a device used to prevent moisture or condensation buildup on the lens of a camera or telescope collector during night observations. There are two general ways that a dew shield can work, which is by either just providing shade for the lens in use…
Polar alignment is the act of aligning the rotational axis of a telescope’s equatorial mount or a sundial’s gnomon with a celestial pole to parallel Earth’s axis. There are a variety of alignment methods and equipment to help amateur astronomers to assist with polar alignment of their…