![]() For example, 4” telescope at a 120x will just show M13 (star cluster) as a fuzzy spot, but when viewed with an 8” using the same magnification M13 is resolved to its core showing hundreds of stars. When you increase the size of the aperture from a 4” to an 8” you increase the resolving power by a factor of two and the light gathering power by a factor of four. The diameter of the aperture determines the light gathering ability of the scope. The aperture of the telescope is its heart. Remember, if the scope is too heavy, you may not use it at all! Learn about Aperture Most can be broken down into 3 subsections for transportation: the optical tube assembly, the telescope mount, and the tripod or base. The size and weight of the telescope you are willing to carry is probably the biggest problem one must ponder. Buy what you can afford, or save up and get it later. Telescope pricing can range from $99 for a small refractor to over $20,000 for a large 16” catadioptric telescope. Gear your telescope purchase around your interest. Or, you can do it just for the fun and love of viewing and imaging the heavens. Amateurs can also conduct nova, supernova, comet and minor planets searches. Amateur astronomers can help in the research of Solar, Luna, planetary and variable star studies. What objects do I want to view?Īstronomy is a broad hobby with many fields of interest. The larger aperture scopes, 8” and greater, will give you unbelievable views of nebulas, galaxies, and star clusters. In the country, you are not limited by light pollution so all telescopes will work well. A telescope with an aperture from 3.0” to 8” should suit them fine. City dwellers are mostly limited in viewing solar, Luna, planetary, double stars, and some of the brighter deep sky objects. This light dome effects what you see at night by casting a bright haze that blocks out the fainter stars, galaxies and nebulas. These lights give off a glow that causes a light dome. In a city setting or in larger towns there are many street and building lights. Photo from Unsplash Four Questions to Ask Before Choosing Your Telescope Where will I be viewing? This comprehensive guide will teach you about the different kinds of telescopes, how they work, and how to choose the right one for you. Choosing your first telescope can be a tedious task. But before you can have that experience, you must do something more down to earth: buy a telescope. Viewing the heavens through a telescope is a breathtaking venture that will leave you with life-long memories.
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