Observing Deep-Sky Objects, Star Hopping

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. 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 of the color seen in long exposure photographs. Instead, they appear black and white. 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.

Star Hopping

One convenient way to find deep-sky objects is by star hopping. Star hopping is done by using bright stars to "guide" you to an object. For successful star hopping, it is helpful to know the field of view of you telescope. If you’re using the standard 20mm eyepiece with the Travel Scope, your field of view is approximately 2.5º or so. If you know an object is 3º away from your present location, then you just need to move a little more than one field of view. If you’re using another eyepiece, then consult the section on determining field of view. Listed below are directions for locating two popular objects.

The Andromeda Galaxy (Figure 5-1), also known as M31, is an easy target. To find M31:

1.Locate the constellation of Pegasus, a large square visible in the fall (in the eastern sky, moving toward the point overhead) and winter months (overhead, moving toward the west).

2.Start at the star in the northeast corner—Alpha (α) Andromedae.

3.Move northeast approximately 7°. There you will find two stars of equal brightness—Delta (δ) and Pi (π) Andromeda—about 3° apart.

4.Continue in the same direction another 8°. There you will find two stars—Beta (β) and Mu (μ) Andromedae — also about 3° apart.

5.Move 3° northwest—the same distance between the two stars—to the Andromeda galaxy.

Star hopping to the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) is a snap, since all the stars needed to do so are visible to the naked eye.

Figure 5-1

21035 specifications

The Celestron 21035 is a high-quality, versatile telescope that caters to both novice and experienced astronomers. This reflector telescope is part of the AstroMaster series, known for its ease of use, excellent optical performance, and sturdy construction. One of its standout features is the 70mm aperture, which allows for bright and clear images of celestial objects. The larger the aperture, the more light the telescope can gather, making it ideal for viewing the Moon, stars, and even some of the more distant planets in our solar system.

One of the key technologies integrated into the Celestron 21035 is its fully coated glass optics. The objective lens and the eyepieces feature multiple layers of coatings, enhancing light transmission and delivering sharper images with improved contrast. This optical design ensures that both the colors and details of celestial objects are rendered accurately, which is crucial for astronomical observation.

Ease of setup is another highlight of the Celestron 21035. The telescope comes with a pre-assembled mount and optical tube, allowing users to get started with minimal effort. The simple, intuitive design is perfect for beginners who want to dive into stargazing without being overwhelmed by complicated setup processes. The lightweight and portable nature of the telescope makes it easy to transport, whether you are going to a local observatory or simply heading to your backyard for some nighttime exploration.

Additionally, the Celestron 21035 features an adjustable, full-height tripod that provides sturdy support, minimizing vibrations and maintaining stability while observing. The mount is manually operated with slow-motion controls, enabling precise targeting of celestial objects. Users can easily track their target as it moves across the sky, enhancing the viewing experience.

For those who enjoy astrophotography, the Celestron 21035 offers the option to attach a smartphone or a camera, allowing you to capture stunning images of the night sky. The telescope's versatility is further highlighted by its compatible eyepiece sizes, providing users with the ability to swap in different magnifications based on their interests.

In summary, the Celestron 21035 is an excellent choice for anyone looking to explore the wonders of the universe. With its robust optical performance, user-friendly design, and impressive features, it serves as a reliable tool for amateur astronomers and seasoned stargazers alike. Whether you’re observing lunar craters or distant galaxies, the Celestron 21035 promises an enjoyable and enriching experience under the stars.