Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Introduction To Astronomy - The Basics

By Jared Thompkins

While many people consider astronomy using a telescope gazing at the stars, many do not even think about using binoculars for astronomy. It is also recommended that you start off using binoculars if you are just getting into star gazing.

For the beginner you will need to learn more about the stars before you go out and spend a few hundred or even more on a telescope, what better way than a pair of binoculars. Some things can appear better through a pair of binoculars such as nearby comets.

Binoculars will make it easier for you to learn about star locations after studying a star map. Once you have a good idea of what you are wanting to look for, then it might be best to hunt for a telescope, just remember there are things that look clearer through a good pair of binoculars than a telescope.

Now you should know more about the stars after some nice star gazing nights with the binoculars. When choosing a telescope, you will now have more understanding of what you are looking for. It is always a good idea to try out a telescope before you buy it, or read user reviews if it is not possible.

What you will be telescope is also a major thing you will have to research. Do not just go in and buy any fancy looking telescope. Make sure you get one that will let you see what you want. There are ones that are designed for stars and galaxies while others that are designed for planets.

The two types of telescopes that are used the most and are the most common are the reflector telescope and the refractor telescope. The reflector telescope uses mirrors to gather light to produce the image. While the refractor is gathers light by use of a lens.

For the beginning astronomer, most would recommend using a reflecting type telescope. If you are into viewing the planets and other stuff in our solar system you may want to try out a refractor telescope as they are better in most cases for this type of viewing.

The best place to use your telescope is where there is the least amount of light pollution. Light from street lights and buildings will mess up the quality of what you are trying to view. Open fields and places like the beach make great spots to use telescopes, also clouds play a major role also.

Having access to a star map is almost essential for the beginning astronomer. Paying attention to upcoming events such as comet passes, and when the planets come through into view will also make sure that your experience with astronomy is nothing but spectacular.

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