CELESTIAL OBSERVING

Now that your telescope is set up, you’re ready to use it for observing. This section covers visual observing for both solar system and deep-sky objects.

Observing the Moon

In the night sky, the moon is a prime target for your first look because it is extremely bright and easy to find. Although the beauty of the full moon may make it seem a perfect viewing object, in fact, the light reflected from its fully illuminated face can be overpowering. In addition, little or no contrast can be seen during this phase.

One of the best times to observe the moon is during its partial phases, such as a crescent or quarter moon. At these times, long shadows reveal a great amount of detail on the lunar surface. At low power, with the standard eyepiece, you’ll be able to see the whole lunar disk at one time. Change to higher power (magnification) with an optional eyepiece to focus in on a smaller area. Keep in mind that the rotation of the earth will cause the moon to drift out of your field of view. You’ll have to manually adjust the telescope to keep the moon centered.

This effect is more noticeable at higher power. Consult a current astronomy magazine or your local newspaper to find out the current phase of the moon.

Lunar Observing Hint

To increase contrast and bring out visible detail on the lunar surface, try using different filters (available through your local Celestron dealer). A yellow filter works well for improving contrast.

Observing the Planets

Other easy targets include the five “naked eye” planets of our solar system, so called because they can be spotted in the night sky by the unaided eye. You can see Venus go through its lunar-like phases. Mars can reveal a host of surface detail and one, if not both, of its polar caps. You’ll be able to see the cloud belts of Jupiter, perhaps even the great Red Spot. In addition, you’ll be able to see the moons of Jupiter as they orbit the giant planet. Saturn, with its beautiful rings, is easily visible at moderate power, as is Mercury. All you need to know is where to look. Most astronomy publications indicate where the planets are in the sky each month.

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Celestron 80 manual Celestial Observing, Observing the Moon, Lunar Observing Hint, Observing the Planets
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80 specifications

The Celestron 80, commonly referred to as the Celestron Astromaster 80, is a popular choice among amateur astronomers and nature enthusiasts alike. This versatile telescope combines portability, ease of use, and impressive optical performance, making it an excellent introduction to the world of astronomy.

One of the primary features of the Celestron 80 is its 80mm aperture. This size allows for a bright and clear view of celestial objects, even in less-than-ideal conditions. The telescope employs a fully coated optical system, which enhances light transmission and improves image clarity. As a result, users can enjoy sharp, detailed views of planets, the moon, and various deep-sky objects such as star clusters and nebulae.

The design of the Celestron 80 is particularly user-friendly. The telescope is equipped with a simple alt-azimuth mount, providing both vertical and horizontal movement. This makes it easy to track objects across the night sky. The mount is also lightweight and portable, making the telescope an ideal companion for on-the-go stargazing adventures or nature observation excursions.

Another standout characteristic of the Celestron 80 is its versatility. It comes with a couple of eyepieces, allowing users to switch magnification levels to suit their viewing preferences. The included finderscope simplifies locating celestial objects, ensuring that even novice users can quickly find and observe various targets.

The Celestron 80 also showcases advancements in technology, including its sturdy, adjustable tripod that ensures stability during use. Additionally, the telescope is designed with user comfort in mind, featuring an adjustable height to accommodate various viewing positions.

For those interested in astrophotography, the Celestron 80 offers several opportunities for capturing images of the night sky. With the proper accessories, users can attach a camera to the telescope, making it a suitable option for wide-field astrophotography.

In summary, the Celestron 80 is an excellent entry-level telescope that offers a powerful combination of features, technology, and portability. Its impressive optical performance, user-friendly design, and versatility make it a favorite among both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts. Whether you wish to observe the craters of the moon or the rings of Saturn, the Celestron 80 is poised to provide an enjoyable and fulfilling viewing experience.
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