Calculating Power, Maintenance | Meade Telestar 40AZ-T specification

CALCULATING POWER

The power, or magnification, at which a telescope is operating is determined by two factors: the optical, or focal length of the telescope’s main (objective) lens and the focal length of the eyepiece being used.

The focal length of the Telestar 40AZ-T’s objective lens is 600mm. To compute power, divide the focal length of the eyepiece into the focal length of the objective lens. The resulting quotient is the magnifying power of the telescope when used with the eyepiece in question. For example, the 25mm eyepiece yields with the Telestar 40AZ-T, a power of:

Power = 600mm ÷ 25mm = 24X

Similarly, if the 6mm eyepiece is used:

Power = 600mm ÷ 6mm = 100X.

A few words about power. While the theoretical power or magnification of a telescope is virtually limitless, there are, however, practical limits imposed by the Earth’s atmosphere as to what can be seen well at a given power. The most useful higher magnification with any 40mm diameter telescope is in the range of 24 to 100 power.

The general rule regarding power: Only use as much magnification as supports a steady, well-defined image. The stability of the air varies and is one reason why having various eyepieces is highly desirable. Higher powers are no guaranty of better images; in fact, the opposite is often true. Also, keep in mind, that land viewing and wide-field, deep-space observation are, generally, low power applications of your telescope.

MAINTENANCE

The AZ-T telescope should be stored in a dry and dust-free place. It should not be stored in direct sunlight. When not in use, keep the lens covered so that it stays clean. Avoid cleaning the lens. A little dust on the the lens hardly affects image quality and should not be considered reason to clean the lens.

SPECIFICATIONS

Objective (main) lens focal length . . . . . . . . . . .600mm

Objective lens diameter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40mm, 2-element achromat

Viewfinder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2x

Mounting type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Altazimuth

Eyepieces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25mm, 6mm

Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24X, 100X

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Telestar 40AZ-T specifications

The Meade Telestar 40AZ-T is an exceptional beginner-friendly telescope that serves as an excellent introduction to the world of astronomy. With its compact design and user-friendly features, it is ideal for novice stargazers and families alike, making it a popular choice among astronomy enthusiasts.

One of the main features of the Telestar 40AZ-T is its 40mm aperture, which provides a sufficient amount of light-gathering capability for observing celestial objects. The telescope is equipped with fully coated optics, ensuring that images remain bright and clear even at higher magnifications. This makes it suitable for a variety of observations, from lunar craters to distant star clusters.

The telescope utilizes an Altazimuth mount, which is known for its simplicity and ease of use. This mount allows users to move the telescope in two axes: up and down, as well as left and right, making it easy to track objects as they move across the night sky. The sturdy construction of the mount ensures stability during observations.

The Meade Telestar 40AZ-T features a range of included eyepieces, allowing users to vary the magnification according to their needs. This versatility enhances the overall viewing experience, enabling users to zoom in on planets and other astronomical objects with ease. Additionally, the telescope includes a finderscope, which is a vital tool for locating celestial objects by providing a wider field of view.

Durability is another characteristic of the Telestar 40AZ-T, as it is designed to withstand the elements. The telescope’s lightweight and portable design make it easy to transport, encouraging users to take it on field trips or camping excursions to enjoy stargazing from different locations.

In terms of assembly, the Meade Telestar 40AZ-T is straightforward and quick to set up. This aspect, along with its intuitive design, means that even those new to astronomy can start observing the night sky with minimal effort. The telescope also comes with a comprehensive user manual that guides users through initial setup and provides tips on how to get the best viewing experience.

In conclusion, the Meade Telestar 40AZ-T offers an impressive combination of features, technologies, and characteristics that cater to beginners in the field of astronomy. With its easy assembly, portability, and quality optics, it provides a fantastic opportunity for anyone eager to explore the wonders of the universe. Whether you are observing the Moon, planets, or star clusters, the Telestar 40AZ-T empowers you to embark on your astronomical journey with confidence.