Celestron 31058, 31056 instruction manual Observing the S u n, Observing Deep-Sky Objects

Observing the S u n

WARNING:

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 (always use the proper solar filter) when observing our star so as not to damage your eyes or your telescope.

Never project an image of the Sun through the telescope. Because of the folded optical design, tremendous heat build-up will result inside the optical tube. This can damage the telescope and/or any accesso- ries attached to the telescope.

SOLAR OBSERVING HINTS

•The best time to observe the Sun is in the early morning or late afternoon when the air is cooler.

•To locate the Sun without a finder, watch the shadow of the telescope tube until it forms a circular shadow.

Observing Deep-Sky Objects

Deep-sky objects are simply those objects outside the boundaries of our solar system. They include star clusters, planetary nebulae, diffuse nebulae, double stars, and other galaxies outside our own Milky Way. The Celestron Sky Maps (#93722) can help you locate the brightest deep-sky objects.

Most deep-sky objects have a large angular size. Therefore, low-to-moderate power is all you need to see them. Visually, they are too faint to reveal any color seen in long exposure photographs. Instead, they have a black and white appear- ance. And, because of their low surface brightness, they should be observed from a dark sky location. Light pollution around large urban areas washes out most nebulae making them difficult, if not impossible, to observe. Light Pollution Reduction filters help reduce the background sky brightness, thus increasing contrast.

Celestial Observing • 41