Magnitude is an astronomical term that is used to describe precisely how bright a stellar object is. It can be done with both objective scientific measurements and a more qualitative classification of how bright the object is in the sky. Magnitude is measured on an inverse scale where lower numbers equal a brighter object. The […]
Two distinct types of optical telescopes, refractors and reflectors, are capable of revealing the glories of the universe. And both kinds achieve this magic by performing a couple of basic actions. First, they gather larger amounts of light than the human eye can do on its own. This alone allows seemingly invisible objects to be […]
Finderscopes are of huge value to beginners in astronomy, looking for objects in the night sky can frustrate you at first. A finderscope normally rides on the back of the main telescope, but it looks much smaller in size. The purpose of a finderscope in astronomy is to aim the main telescope toward the object of interest. Because […]
Buying the right telescope is a personal decision that comes down to the preference of the astronomer. For the beginner astronomer (or amatuer astronomer) purchasing the first telescope can be intimidating. This list was compiled for that specific reason – to take the guess work out of purchasing a telescope for beginners. The key features […]
Whether a telescope is large or small, it is one of three types: refractor, reflector or catadioptric, which is also called compound. The catadioptric category includes Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes. Even though refractors, reflectors and Schmidt-Cassegrains are related historically and technologically, they function differently and have different purposes. They also have different advantages and disadvantages. Refractors A […]
The United States of America is home to some of the finest observatories and stargazing destinations. Professional and hobbyists alike gather in each state to seek out the great beyond and learn more about the mysteries in the night sky. When it comes to the backyard astronomer though, finding an area not filled with bright […]
A telescope will not operate without an eyepiece. The eyepiece allows light to be focused so that you’ll be able to see a sharp view of the object or area that you’re trying to study. When you install an eyepiece, you’ll be able to bring distant objects closer to you so that you can study […]
Beginners in the world of astronomy can easily get confused and bogged down with the details of star maps, planets, and stellar rotation. With all of the things that are put forth for the backyard astronomer to learn, the process of figuring out what kind of telescope would best suit your needs should probably be […]
Now is a fantastic time to begin learning astronomy. Never before have there been so many different ways to view the universe right from your own backyard- or anywhere. But when you’re just starting out, how do you select your first telescope? Here are some things to consider so your stargazing experience is unforgettable. What […]
