| With such a vast array of accessories out there, you
must be wondering,
"What do I need?"
Well, here are some of the things we here at the MAS just
couldn't live without...
Telrad : This is a sighting device that uses no magnification and
gives you a clean view of the sky. It projects three concentric
circles on a glass panel you look through like a jet fighter HUD.
Very, very handy. You'd be surprised how useful the Telrad can be.
After all, it sure is hard to aim even a telescope's finder when
everything you see in it is upside-down and magnified. About $40.
First Light Astronomy Kit : This kit has everything you need and
should have to start observing. Its a wonder every telescope doesn't
come with one to begin with. This kit can mean the difference
between a dusty scope and a lifetime of observing. It has a star
atlas, a planisphere, planet locator, moon-phase charts, and more.
About $30.
Finder scope (8x50) : Most beginner scopes come with a 6x30 or
worse yet, a 5x24 finder. With an 8x50, your ability to locate
deep-sky objects may skyrocket! These scopes gather 147% more light
than 6x30's, allowing you to see dark objects through them as faint
smudges, not invisible dots. Up to $200.
Eyepieces 1.25" : Its simple. .965" eyepieces just
don't cut it. If you're buying a scope and it takes .965"
eyepieces,, forget it. If you own a scope with these and you're
wondering why everything looks so disappointing, sell it or try to
find an adapter that takes real 1.25" eyepieces.
A military style flashlight : This kind of flashlight comes with
the 90 degree bend and are perfect for astronomy. They're
inexpensive, waterproof, and usually come with a red filter.
Velcro : Use it for everything. You only have two arms...
A log book : You should make it a habit to record what you
observe. Anything will do. |
