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With your telescope set up, you are ready to use it for observing. This section covers visual observing hints for
both solar system and deep sky objects as well as general observing conditions which will affect your ability to
observe.
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Often, it is tempting to look at the Moon when it is full. At this
time, the face we see is fully illuminated and its light 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 (around the time of first or third quarter). Long shadows
reveal a great amount of detail on the lunar surface. At low power
you will be able to see most of the lunar disk at one time. Change
to higher power (magnification) to focus in on a smaller area.
Choose the
lunar
tracking rate from the hand control's MENU
tracking rate options to keep the moon centered in the eyepiece
even at high magnifications.
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To increase contrast and bring out detail on the lunar surface, use eyepiece filters. A yellow filter works well
at improving contrast while a neutral density or polarizing filter will reduce overall surface brightness and
glare.
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Other fascinating targets include the five naked eye planets. 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 will be able to see the cloud belts of
Jupiter and the great Red Spot (if it is visible at the time you are observing). In
addition, you will also 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.
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Remember that atmospheric conditions are usually the limiting factor on how much planetary detail will be
visible. So, avoid observing the planets when they are low on the horizon or when they are directly over a
source of radiating heat, such as a rooftop or chimney. See the "
Seeing Conditions
" section later in this
section.
y
To increase contrast and bring out detail on the planetary surface, try using Celestron eyepiece filters.
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Although overlooked by many amateur astronomers, solar observation is both rewarding and fun. However,
because the Sun is so bright, special precautions must be taken when observing our star so as not to damage your
eyes or your telescope.
Never project an image of the Sun through the telescope. Tremendous heat build-up may result inside the
optical tube. This can damage the telescope and/or any accessories attached to the telescope.
For safe solar viewing, use a Celestron solar filter (see
Optional Accessories
section of manual) that reduces the
intensity of the Sun's light, making it safe to view. With a filter you can see sunspots as they move across the solar
disk and faculae, which are bright patches seen near the Sun's edge.
