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3. The Basic Components of Your Telescope

Figure 1 shows the fully assembled Observer 70. All the major components of the telescope are described and numbered to help you identify each part and understand its use. Refer back to this figure when assembling the telescope.

1Optical tube

This is the main optical component of the telescope. The glass lens at the front of the tube gathers incoming light and focuses it by bending (or refracting) the light rays. The tube assembly has several parts built into it, which are shown and discussed in detail in the next section.

290° Mirror star diagonal

The diagonal contains a mirror that reflects the light gath- ered through the optical tube to the eyepiece. The diag- onal is angled to allow for viewing objects that are high in the sky from a comfortable position.

325mm Explorer II eyepiece

The eyepiece is the part of the telescope that you actually look through to see things. The focal length of the eye- piece and the telescope determines the magnifying power of the telescope. Magnification is discussed in more detail in the Using Your Telescope section.

4EZ Finder II reflex sight

This is a special “finder” that helps you aim the telescope and locate objects in the sky for viewing. The EZ Finder

IIgenerates a red LED “dot” that shows where your telescope is aimed. The use of the EZ Finder II is dis- cussed in the Getting Started section.

5Altazimuth yoke mount

The mount couples the telescope to the tripod and allows you to move the optical tube easily both up and down and right and left.

6Tripod legs

These aluminum tripod legs support the telescope and can extend from 27" to 50" long.

7Accessory tray

This tray is a convenient place for holding extra eyepieces and other small pieces of equipment.

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Orion 70MM AZ instruction manual Basic Components of Your Telescope
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70MM AZ specifications

The Orion 70MM AZ telescope is an impressive entry-level telescope designed for stargazers who want to explore the night sky with ease. Ideal for beginners and casual astronomers, the 70MM AZ combines simplicity with the essential features to deliver a satisfying astronomical experience.

One of the primary features of the Orion 70MM AZ is its 70mm aperture. This size strikes a perfect balance between portability and light-gathering ability, allowing users to observe celestial objects such as the Moon, planets, and some deep-sky objects. The telescope is equipped with a fully coated glass lens that enhances image brightness and clarity, ensuring that every view of the cosmos is enjoyable.

The telescope's optical design incorporates a refractor system, which is known for producing crisp, sharp images without the need for frequent maintenance. Refracting telescopes are particularly user-friendly because they require minimal collimation compared to reflecting telescopes. As a result, the Orion 70MM AZ is a great choice for novices who may not yet be familiar with telescope maintenance.

A standout feature of the Orion 70MM AZ is its Altazimuth mount. This type of mount allows for intuitive up-and-down and side-to-side movements, making it easy for users to locate and track astronomical objects. The mount is designed for smooth motion and requires minimal setup, so users can spend more time stargazing and less time fumbling with equipment.

Additionally, the Orion 70MM AZ is lightweight and portable, making it easy to transport to dark sky locations. Its user-friendly design means it's perfect for family outings or educational events, allowing users of all ages to experience the wonders of the universe.

To enhance the observing experience, the telescope includes two eyepieces: a 10mm and a 25mm. These provide different magnification options that suit various viewing needs. The inclusion of a finderscope further aids in locating objects in the vastness of space.

In summary, the Orion 70MM AZ telescope is a versatile and accessible option for anyone keen on discovering the universe. With its 70mm aperture, refractor design, Altazimuth mount, and user-friendly features, it stands as a compelling choice for beginners and seasoned astronomers alike. Whether spotting craters on the Moon or viewing distant planets, this telescope offers an engaging way to connect with the beauty of the night sky.
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