Monday, October 29, 2007

Antique Astronomical Telescope Reproduction, Anyone?

Someone asks me: Where can I buy an antique astronomical telescope? He prefers it to be one that is still functional. I guess if anyone is looking for an ancient scope gadget, it would have to be a refracting telescope type, if only because the refractor is the first type to be invented and therefore the oldest scope.

Once I chanced upon an antique piece – something like a solid brass. You would really know the high quality craftsmanship done on this refracting telescope. Actually, most antique scopes are really difficult to be out in the open these days. Many existing ones are tucked away in some dusty and cobwebbed cabinets.

If you really want a telescope that speaks of antiquity, you might want to settle for a little less, but certainly the next best thing to the original. There are many companies who offer antique telescopes but are actually just reproduction of the real one. These scope manufacturers are very particular with the details as well as the materials used in building such astronomical gadgets.

Reproduction of antique telescopes nowadays are so perfectly done, you would actually think the scope on your hands and using for star gazing are the real thing. And what's best is that you can get one for a fraction of the price of the real antique one.

For those who wanted to buy reproduction of old-style scopes, it is best to check on online scope and binocular companies who are catering to this type of need. More often than not, you will be happily surprised that some of them actually offer the antique type of scope that you have been looking for.

Sunday, October 21, 2007

Get Maximum Results from Your Astronomical Telescope


Even if you own a refracting telescope or any other type of scope that’s easy to use, it is best to know exactly how to operate the gadget to the letter in order to attain the best and clearest images possible. As with any other gadgets, constant proper use of your astronomical telescope makes perfect.

One thing that should be observed when using it, always take utmost to prevent any damage done on your scope. Surely no one would want even a scratch inflicted on its tube or eyepiece. Likewise, to get a solid view of a sky object, mount your refractor on a stable location or surface that produces zero vibrations. You should know that a slight vibration or unnecessary movement on your refracting telescope will disturb the images it will produce and cause it to become blurred.

One more important advice: while many of us might want to try mounting and setting up our scope by our window, with us observing from the inside, in the comfort of our room, this is not an ideal way of stargazing with our scopes and will not give us the clear and crisp images that we desire. It is best to mount your astronomy telescope on an open space if only for maximum results.

Tuesday, October 16, 2007

Rooftop Stargazing with Your Astronomical Telescope


It is without a doubt that astronomy is one of the most popular sciences and stargazing continues to top today’s popular educational and entertainment pursuit. Many enthusiasts are so engrossed with stargazing that they went to the extent of buying a refracting telescope or any other type of scope for their hobby.

Why is star gazing very popular? A good reason is that you can actually enjoy a great observing session of the stars and the planets anywhere you may be. Of course, if you are in the city you can still find a place that is away from all that distracting city lights. And when you do this, you can practically see a vivid image of the moon.

Many have an image of a star gazing session as one which is done on the rooftop. If you actually decide on doing this, make sure that the roof is very stable and can carry your weight. Mounting of your refracting telescope should be very stable to achieve the best images that you can enjoy.

Indeed, stargazing continues to be a popular hobby if only because the experience can be awesome. To see clear images of space objects is an experience that anyone can really appreciate. Yes, you can enjoy the stars in the sky with your naked eye, but of course, it’s a whole different experience when you use astronomical telescope.

Thursday, October 04, 2007

Observing Tips with Your Good Old Refracting Telescope

Despite the latest scope models out in the market, there is always excellent use for your old refracting telescope. A very reliable and easy to use one, nothing beats the refractor when wanting to enjoy some amazing star gazing at any clear night sky.

Still, you can make your observing session a great one by taking notes and applying a few effective tips in star gazing.

First, avoid the lights coming from the city. Your base or observing site should also be away from air pollution. Be in a location that is elevated to the point that you will be as far as possible from the pollution and building lights. This will help you get a vivid view of bright sky objects.

Many of us live in the city, so finding a good place to observe with your astronomical telescope can be difficult. If you are in some building, go to the highest place as possible, perhaps on the rooftop. However, avoid winds as this can make you’re the mounting of your telescope unstable.

The strict rule is to observe and star gaze on a stable ground. Avoid mounting your refractor telescope on an unstable structure because vibration is inevitable and can affect your star gazing.