Key parts of a telescope how to#
Key parts of a telescope full#

It sits in the cradle, allowing the telescope tube to point up and down. The second axis is mounted on the optical tube.

Key parts of a telescope full#

This axis points the telescope around the horizon a full 360 degrees in “azimuth.” This telescope is a Newtonian reflector that sits on a cradle with a flat, lazy-susan-like table that rotates around a vertical axis. The best example to visualize this style of telescope mount is the Dobsonian.

How Does a Telescope Alt-Az Mount Work? Let’s start with Alt-Az designs. Both types of mounts can point the optical tube of your telescope around the sky, and both can function electronically to compensate for the Earth’s rotation. Your mount, depending on the type you have, will help you track the celestial objects as it moves across the sky.Īlmost all mounts are variations of two main categories: Altitude-Azimuth (Alt-Az) and equatorial. To view a deep space celestial object, you must align with the motion of the object you want to see in relation to the motion of Earth. Many beginner telescope users forget that everything in space is in motion! Because everything in space is in motion, using a proper mount is important. You can also remove the eyepiece, insert a Barlow (doubles the magnification of the eyepiece), reinsert the eyepiece, and repeat the steps above.įinding the right eyepiece and getting in focus is only one step in the process. When you’re ready, switch eyepieces to a higher power and repeat the steps above.Turn the focus knob to make the celestial object look clear in the eyepiece–first one way, then the other–until the celestial object is in focus.Tip: If you get too close, it can cause a black ring to appear around your view. Find the best comfort and view for you.To use them, start with a low power eyepiece (large focal length number) to find your target.

Your eyepiece’s focal length is stamped somewhere on the eyepiece, usually in 'mm.' The focal length will tell you its magnification/power from a simple formula (the telescope's focal length divided by the eyepiece's focal length). What You Need to Know About Your Telescope's EyepiecesĮyepieces are defined in part by their focal length.

Key parts of a telescope how to#

Let's take a look at what they do and how to use them next in this telescope for beginners guide. One of the first accessory types you should get to know before using your telescope is your eyepieces. We have a top 10 guide here to help you get started with making your selections. There are many, many accessories and it can be easy to feel overwhelmed at first. The next thing you should get to know about your telescope is its accessories. To learn more about the different types, and if you're wondering which one you have, check out our blog on the different types of telescopes! There are three main types, refractor, reflector, and catadioptric. Parts of a TelescopeĮach part of the telescope works together to function as a powerful observing system. Check out this chart below that visually defines the pieces of a telescope for you. This guide will walk you through all the parts of your telescope and provide tips to maximize your stargazing experience!īefore we get into the more technical parts of your telescope, let’s review the main pieces first. Welcome to the hobby! Using your telescope for the first time is an exciting first step into exploring the universe.