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CELESTIAL OBSERVING
Now that your telescope is set up, you’re ready to use it for observing. This section covers visual
observing for both solar system and deep-sky objects.
Observing the Moon
In the night sky, the moon is a prime target for your first look because it is extremely bright and easy to
find. Although the beauty of the full moon may make it seem a
perfect viewing object, in fact, the light reflected from its fully
illuminated face can be overpowering. In addition, little or no
contrast can be seen during this phase.
One of the best times to observe the moon is during its partial
phases, such as a crescent or quarter moon. At these times, long
shadows reveal a great amount of detail on the lunar surface. At
low power, with the standard eyepiece, you’ll be able to see the
whole lunar disk at one time. Change to higher power
(magnification) with an optional eyepiece to focus in on a smaller
area. Keep in mind that the rotation of the earth will cause the moon to drift out of your field of view.
You’ll have to manually adjust the telescope to keep the moon centered. This effect is more noticeable at
higher power. Consult a current astronomy magazine or your local newspaper to find out the current
phase of the moon.
Lunar Observing Hint
To increase contrast and bring out visible detail on the lunar surface, try using different filters (available
through your local
Celestron
dealer). A yellow filter works well for improving contrast.
Observing the Planets
Other easy targets include the five “naked eye” planets of our
solar system, so called because they can be spotted in the
night sky by the unaided eye. You can see
Venus
go through
its lunar-like phases.
Mars
can reveal a host of surface detail
and one, if not both, of its polar caps. You’ll be able to see the
cloud belts of
Jupiter
, perhaps even the great Red Spot. In
addition, you’ll be able to see the moons of Jupiter as they orbit
the giant planet.
Saturn
, with its beautiful rings, is easily visible
at moderate power, as is
Mercury
. All you need to know is
where to look. Most astronomy publications indicate where the
planets are in the sky each month.
