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Refractor telescopes are renowned for their absolute sharpness of image because they are composed of very large lenses of compounds of glass which gives them crystal clear images. But they are extraordinarily difficult to make in a large size. Their own weight distorts their shape and makes them unusable above a certain size.
The largest refractor in the world is the Yerkes telescope which has a primary lens that is 40 inches in diameter. It was completed in 1897 and was built by the famous master optician Alvan Clark. It represents the pinnacle of refractor telescope making and no larger one has since been built in the hundred years since. Reflectors are much more feasible for larger sizes and there are many of this type that are extraordinarily large. It is with reflectors that we achieve very large instruments.
Reflector telescopes come in two different types. The first type is the single mirror type where a single piece of glass is cast and polished to make the primary mirror. The second type is the segmented mirror where a series of hexagonal mirrors are assembled together into a single large mirror. This type of mirror looks much like the honeycomb from a beehive and this new technology is allowing telescope makers to make instruments larger than ever imagined.
The largest single piece of glass telescope in the world is the Large Binocular Telescope (LBT) in Arizona. It is a telescope composed of two separate mirrors that are side by side and work in tandem. The light from both of them are blended into one single image. Each mirror is 8.4 meters (330 inches) in width and when used together they create the equivalent of a mirror that is 11.8 meters (464 inches) across which is currently the largest light collecting size on Earth. It is located in Mount Graham International Observatory in Arizona.
Segmented mirrors pose technology challenges that have been overcome in the past decade and now these multiple mirror scopes are being built in extremely large sizes that cannot be rivaled by single piece mirrors. Of the segmented telescopes where a series of honeycomb shapes are assembled together into a single telescope there are three different observatories with these largest of mirrors.
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There are a few benefits of buying used astronomical telescopes. The biggest point is cost saving. I have seen many occasions where a used telescope is being offered for sale. The telescope is a 10" Meade reflecting telescope, and it sounds amazing, and the telescope is great, but is it? This we will answer in a bit, but for now, realize the huge savings.A used telescope can be purchased for the fraction of purchasing a telescope that is new. This alone can be great, especially if you are on a budget.
There are a few things to consider before buying a used telescope.Make sure you take a look at the used astronomical telescope. You want to make sure the optics is in order. In reflector telescopes, check the mirror and make sure that there is no damage, as that can affect the image. However, if the telescope is a big telescope like a 10", then small errors won't cause a big problem. The problem comes with refractors and damage to the optics.In either case, the main point is to make sure the optics is in good order. The next point is to look at the tripod & mount. You want to make sure that is working. And next to haggle the price, to get the best deal!
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Binoculars are significantly more portable than telescopes and this is a huge advantage. Anyone who has ever used a telescope will tell you how much of a hassle it is to transport one. Getting the best results in astronomy usually requires moving to a remote location where there is minimal disruptive lights from buildings street lights etc.Most astronomers do not stay in remote locations so they need to move and bring their telescopes around. Transporting a 30kg telescope is hardly much fun, although the results are worth the effort. Binoculars on the other hand weight on average about 3kg and transportation is easy! So if you find yourself needing to move regularly for astronomy nights, then binoculars will have an edge because of their portability!
Binoculars are very cost effective when compared to telescopes. On average a decent pair of binoculars for astronomy can be as little as $250. Telescopes on the other hand can start costing around $500 for a telescope of similar optic quality. People with a budget regularly choose to go with binoculars because they offer a lower price entry point and psychologically it does seem less daunting to buy a pair of binoculars compared to a full sized telescope.
A big advantage for binoculars is the fact that you can use binoculars for more than astronomy. They can be used for land viewing and a variety of other applications. Telescopes can be used for other forms of viewing outside of astronomy but because of the way they are made, the viewing experience can be very cumbersome.
Telescopes are not easy to maneuver especially if you are viewing a land object that is moving quickly (e.g Ships on the sea or yachts). Many users find telescopes just too difficult to operate for things other than astronomy so that is where they are normally used.Binoculars on the other hand can still be used for a variety of applications. Binoculars are generally built for land viewing and its no different for astronomy binoculars. These binoculars work well for longer distance viewing with many users setting them up in holiday homes that overlook the sea, mountains or beaches!
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One of the more recent developments for telescopes has been the rise to prominence of Computerized mounts. Computerized mounts are utilising GPS technology to locate the exact location of the telescope on the earth. From there it can actually recommend to users what there is to see in the night sky. Simple pushes of the button then automatically move the telescope to view those objects!
These computerized mounts have become extremely popular for beginners and even seasoned astronomers. For beginners the ease of finding something interesting to see is very attractive. On the same token, the computerized functionality that allows a telescope to track a night sky object as it moves is very attractive to seasoned astronomers who like doing long exposure astro-photography.
Computerized mounts used to be the domain of high end telescopes, but as technology improves and manufacturing costs reduce the prices for computerized telescopes has continued to drop year on year. Manufacturers such as Celestron, Mead and iOptron have a wide variety of computerized telescopes that fit within different budgets!
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It has to be pointed out that the quality of photo binoculars seldom matches that of standalone binoculars or digital cameras. This is to be expected, and should not be taken to mean that the quality is necessarily poor. Just be sure to do a quick test or get to see example photographs before you make your purchase! Also, while many photo binoculars are on a par with regular binoculars when it comes to weight, they usually suffer when it comes technical specifications such as field of view, the width of your surroundings visible through the binoculars. However, many different models are on the market, and if you want to be able to share your binocular experiences, we highly recommend considering a pair of photo binoculars!
Most cheap photo binoculars simply mount a digital camera between the two eyepieces of the binoculars. A widely recognized problem with this, is that it tends to cause parallax distortion in the digital images. This problem is known to photographers from cameras that use separate lenses for taking the photographs and focusing. The image seen through the two different lenses will vary, showing slight discrepancies, especially at close distances. The problem is also found when stitching panoramic photographs, in this case usually resulting in double vision or blurring. What this means for your choice of binoculars, is that you should look for a model that has the digital camera integrated with the binocular lenses, so that they focus together. This ensures real what-you-see-is-what-you-get photos and video. On a side note, not all photo binoculars have a video recording feature, and those that do, often just records a 30 second clip. However, some models have an "instant replay" feature, which prerecords the video clip. A really nice feature that saves you from having to fumble for the record button when that golden moment suddenly comes, out of nowhere.
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Zoom power can be set at any of the magnification levels within the binoculars listed power range. In our example above, the settings could step from 10X to 11X to 12X, and upward to include 22X.With switch/power ratings there is a choice of only two settings. In our above example, the binoculars can be set to either a power rating of 10X or 17X. There are no settings in between.Zoom binoculars are designated by the "dash" between its power ratings (i.e. 10-22 X 50). Switch/power binoculars have their power ratings separated by a "slash" (i.e. 10/17 X35).Much of the confusion probably centers on the fact that many consumers overlook this dash or slash and assume both to mean the same thing. Those are not typing mistakes, but rather specific markings to identify and to separate both the zoom binoculars and the switch/power binoculars.
With zoom binoculars the change in magnification is done primarily through the use of a linkage band. Can you visualize the leather belt that was used years ago to drive sawmill and threshing machine operations? The zoom principle is similar. As the belt (linkage band) rotates both wheels (ocular lenses) simultaneously move in synchronization.This flexible metal linkage band connects to both rear ocular lenses of the binoculars. As the linkage band is moved from one power settings to another both the left and right ocular lenses ideally will change precisely to the identical power settings. However, with zoom binoculars it is difficult to maintain perfect synchronization between both lenses and some additional adjustments often are necessary to bring both eyepieces back into focus.
Switch/power binoculars do not have to deal with a series of different step power settings. One selects either of the two power ratings. There are no options in between. The change of magnification is done with a switch located in front of the focus dial. This switch quickly, easily, and instantly changes the binoculars power setting from one magnification level to the other.Since both the zoom and the switch/power binoculars are both fairly new in terms of binocular history, expect some modifications, improvements, and tweaking. At this time it appears that the switch/power models have been more readily accepted (at a far greater price), but both binocular types are popular among specific groups of consumers.
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Caring for your binoculars should not be considered a task or time consuming project. Caring for your binoculars is relatively simple and takes very little time, effort or equipment. Good habits are easily attained and simple if you follow the information listed below. Binoculars can range from inexpensive to very expensive models although caring for them is basically the same. Your binoculars will give you years of great service when handled with proper care. Protect your investment.
In almost all cases your binoculars came in a 'Carrying/Protective Case' with an attached strap for carrying on your shoulder or around your neck. The 'case' is for carrying, storage and protection. Keep your binoculars in their 'case' whenever you are not viewing to prevent banging of your binoculars as well as to keep dirt, foreign debris and inclement weather from effecting the life and performance of your optics. Also store with the rubber eye cups in the up or unfolded position and keep all protective lens covers and caps on unless viewing. If you are out walking, such as hunting, birding or just general landscape/nature viewing, carry your binoculars in their case for protection until ready to use, especially in inclement weather. Keeping your binoculars in their case with the lens covers 'on' until needed for viewing is the 'most' effective and recommended way of protection.
Banging, as mentioned above, along with dropping, is the most common source of mistreating binoculars (besides improper lens cleaning which is discussed below). Banging and or dropping can cause misalignment of the barrels (the two low power telescopes attached by a hinge) which in turn will result in a blurred or double image rendering your binoculars basically useless, unless you view through only one lens. Your binoculars are then only useful as a "monocular" and are no longer binoculars as you will not be able to see a clear image through both eyepieces at the same time. Even slight misalignment can be devastating to your viewing. Banging or dropping can also result in cracking or breaking of your optic lenses. The cost to repair misaligned binoculars or a broken lens is not usually worth the repair cost unless the binoculars are of a very expensive nature or have an unconditional replacement warranty. Warranties will normally not cover misalignment or a broken lens although some manufacturers may.
Binocular manufacturers know that banging and or dropping can cause misalignment of the barrels and most have taken steps to insure the connection between the two barrels is sturdy and precise. Even so, banging and dropping can still cause misalignment so handle your binoculars with care at all times.If your binoculars are waterproof/fog proof, excessive banging and or dropping can cause the nitrogen inside the barrels to escape voiding their waterproof/fog proof status.All binoculars come with a 'safety' or 'neck strap' attached to the binoculars that is normally adjustable in length. When viewing, always put the safety strap over your head to prevent accidental dropping of your binoculars. Insure that if others use your binoculars, they too install the safety strap over their head.
'Armor' or 'rubber' coated binoculars are great at absorbing most of the shock generated by low impact banging. This rubber coating does not necessarily help if your binoculars are dropped or banged excessively.Even though your binoculars may be waterproof and or fog proof, keep them dry when possible. Wipe any water off with a soft cloth or towel before storing.Do not store your binoculars in an excessively hot or cold vehicle. The excessive heat can cause swelling of the barrels which in turn can cause one or both of the objective (large lens) lenses to pop out or crack. Excessive heat and cold can also cause moisture or condensation to build up inside the binoculars. Don't leave your binoculars on the dash of a vehicle even if they are in the case. The sun shining through the windshield can magnify the outside temperature many times.
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Night vision binoculars are very comfortable to use because we are accustomed to seeing with both eyes, but they are pricey. If you want powerful night vision optics for a cheaper price, consider night vision monocular. The result you get is pretty much the same, but they cost significantly less. The range of you binocular depends on three things - its gain, resolution and magnification. If you have powerful lenses, the magnification is good, but the amount of captured light decreases significantly. Usually only magnification below 5X works well for night binoculars. So unlike ordinary day light binoculars the range for night ones is not that extended.
Kids enjoy night vision binoculars.If you are going on a long trip, a night vision binoculars will be excellent entertainment for kids. They will stare in the windows for hours and discover many thing that otherwise would be missed.When it comes to binoculars you always get what you paid for. Brand name binoculars like Yukon, Night Owl, Weaver or N-Vision Optics cost more, but they come with more features. Also be aware, that night binoculars cost much more than ordinary binoculars.
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The obvious object for your telescope is the moon. You can actually observe hundreds of craters with your telescope if you really used your time to count them. You will definitely get a lot more pleasure from observing the moon when you look closely at detail. Try searching for craters within craters. That is the real treat. In addition try to observe the many mountain ranges while observing the moon. Look for the more distinct craters such as Plato, Tycho, Copernicus and so forth. Your 60mm telescope can easily resolve these craters in good detail. You may also want to make use of a moon map to see what other lunar landscapes will certainly capture your interest. You can Google "moon" and then click images at Google to start you off. Heard about Google Earth? Consider Google Moon... you'll find it simply amazing.
There are several planets which will easily amaze you when viewing through your telescope. To start... Jupiter. Even with a compact 60mm telescope, it is possible to view at least 2 or 3 red cloud belts on Jupiter. Additionally, you will be able to observe four of Jupiter's much larger moons (Jupiter has 63 moons) all named after Galileo's 4 sons Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto. If you watch them over a course of a few days, you will observe them change position around Jupiter as they continue with their orbit. With a good high power eyepiece, you can actually view a solar eclipse on Jupiter every once in awhile.The planet Saturn is also a real treasure to check out. My first telescope was a 50mm table top refractor which my dad and mom decided to buy for me from Kmart back in the seventies. The first planet I observed through that scope ended up being Saturn. At ten years old, I was simply in awe. You'll be to with your 60mm. It is possible to view it's rings as well as the Cassini division with a high power eye piece. Saturn's most significant moon Titan is also visible. It is bigger compared with our very own moon and the planets Mercury and Pluto.
Mars and also Venus will also be in reach of your 60mm telescope. However there is substantial much less detail to see when compared with with Jupiter and Saturn. The reason is all though nearer than the other planets, they are also quite smaller. With Mars, you might possibly see it's polar caps under perfect viewing conditions. With Venus, all you can see is it's moon like phases and no surface features for the reason that it's whole surface is covered with gaseous clouds.There are actually a lot stars to view with your 60mm. All of them appear in various formats so to speak. Single stars, double stars like Albireo in the constellation of Cygnus. Several of the brighter globular clusters including M4, M13 and M22, open clusters The Pleiades as well as a galaxy or two like the Andromeda are well with in reach of a 60mm telescope. Naturally to enjoy these night jewels you have to locate them first. There is a free program for your computer that's simply amazing to learn your way around the night sky. The name of the program is Stellarium. Just Google it and head to their web page and install it. Once installed, just type in your location and the program will display the sky for your area and time of day.
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When you're out in the wilderness you really only have to worry about the sun. While boating it's important to understand the sun's reflection will be coming off the water. This can wreak havoc on your viewing capabilities. The only way to deal with this is by making sure the proper lens coating is utilized.Take the time to learn more about lens coating and how much is involved with the waterproof marine binoculars you're looking over. We can tell you right now that the more there are, the better your image is going to be. Just keep in mind that it also means they will be more expensive. Standard options offer the basics, but when you're on water you need the essentials.You have a reason for buying waterproof marine binoculars. They are used for a specific situation, which means they have specialized benefits that standard options do not. If you take the time to research all the areas above, and also consider the comfort and holding, lens covers, and possible straps or harnesses, we know you will find the perfect pair of marine binoculars for your next trip onto the open waters.
Standard binoculars are usually around 7x10. While this is great for certain situations, they might not be the best choice once you figure out what you will be using them for throughout the year. When using waterproof marine binoculars you're looking at 7x50. Granted, there are others available, but if this is your first pair then it's good to start with 7x50.Obviously the waterproofing aspect is a big ordeal, especially when you're on the water. Whether it's water splashing up into the boat or you accidentally drop them overboard, your waterproof marine binoculars will still work to perfection. If you went with a set of standard binoculars then you would end up having to purchase another pair.However, it's extremely important to figure out whether or not they are actually "waterproof." Sometimes it can be misleading, and they could end up being water-resistant instead. This is a huge difference, which means you could be wasting your money if the appropriate binoculars aren't purchased.
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