Meade NG70-SM guide

planetoids and other debris left over from the birth of our sun. Recently astronomers have found large objects in this area and they may increase the number of planets in our solar system.

The four planets closest to the Sun are rocky and are called the inner planets. Mercury, Venus, Earth and Mars comprise the inner planets. Venus and Mars can be easily seen in your telescope.

Venus is seen before dawn or after sunset, because it is close to the Sun. You can observe Venus going through crescent phases. But you cannot see any surface detail on Venus because it has a very thick atmosphere of gas.

When Mars is close to the Earth, you can see some details on Mars, and sometimes even Mars’ polar caps. But quite often, Mars is further away and just appears as a red dot with some dark lines crisscrossing it. Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune comprise the outer planets. These planets, are made mostly of gases and are

Fig. 5

sometimes called gas giants. If they had grown much bigger, they may have become stars.

Jupiter is quite interesting to observe. You can see bands across the face of Jupiter. The more time you spend observing these bands, the more detail you will be able to see.

One of the most fascinating sights of Jupiter are its moons. The four largest moons are called the Galilean moons, after the astronomer Galileo, who observed them for the first time. If you’ve never watched the Galilean moons in your telescope before, you’re missing a real treat! Each night, the

moons appear in different positions around the Jovian sky. This is sometimes called the Galilean dance. 7 On any given night, you might be able

to see the shadow of a moon on the face of Jupiter, see one moon eclipse another or even see a moon emerge from behind Jupiter’s giant disk. Drawing the positions of the moons each night is an excellent exercise for novice astronomers.

Any small telescope can see the four Galilean moons of Jupiter (Fig. 5), plus a few others, but how many moons does Jupiter actually have? No one knows for sure! Nor are we sure how many Saturn has either. At last count, Jupiter had over 60 moons, and

Looking at or near the Sun will cause irreversible damage to your eye. Do not point this telescope at or near the Sun. Do not look through the telescope as it is moving.

NG70-SM specifications

The Meade NG70-SM is an excellent entry-level telescope designed for both novice astronomers and hobbyists. This telescope combines quality optics with user-friendly features, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to explore the wonders of the night sky.

One of the standout features of the NG70-SM is its 70mm aperture. This aperture size strikes a perfect balance between portability and light-gathering power. The telescope allows users to observe celestial objects in great detail, providing a clear view of the Moon, planets, and even some deep-sky objects like star clusters and nebulae. The optics of the NG70-SM are fully coated to enhance light transmission, ensuring bright and sharp images.

The telescope is equipped with a sturdy mount that offers smooth and precise movements, which is essential for tracking celestial objects across the sky. The mount features both altitude and azimuth adjustments, allowing users to easily find and follow objects. Additionally, the NG70-SM comes with a stable tripod, providing a solid base during observation sessions.

Another notable characteristic of this telescope is its simplicity in setup and use. The NG70-SM is designed with beginners in mind, making it easy to set up without needing complex tools or extensive knowledge of astronomy. The telescope includes a simple manual that guides users through initial assembly, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

The Meade NG70-SM also features a 1.25-inch focuser, which is compatible with various eyepieces and accessories, enabling users to customize their viewing experience. The telescope typically comes with a couple of eyepieces, offering different magnifications to suit different astronomical targets. The addition of a red dot finder enhances aiming accuracy, allowing users to quickly locate objects in the sky.

Portability is another advantage of the NG70-SM, as it is lightweight and easy to transport. Whether going to a dark site for better stargazing or attending an astronomy club event, the telescope can be easily carried, making it a convenient option for those who wish to explore new environments.

In conclusion, the Meade NG70-SM combines quality optics, user-friendly features, and portability, making it an excellent choice for those beginning their journey into astronomy. Its combination of a 70mm aperture, a stable mount, and ease of use provides an immersive experience that inspires curiosity and a love for the cosmos.