Observing Tips For The Amateur Astronomer

 The secret to enjoying the sights above is patience and persistence. The new observer typically wants to see everything in one night. Regardless of the telescope you have this approach is not recommended and will leave you disappointed. I recommend the following steps to maximize your enjoyment and observing success.

1. Become familiar with the night skies. Use a star map for your location and set it for the approximate time you intend to observe (many star maps are available free). Start with the naked eye and become familiar with the basic stars and planets locations in your view. You should be able to identify most of the common objects before moving on to the next step. Watch and understand how the stars and planets appear to move during your observing session.

2. You are now ready to move up to a pair of low power binoculars. You will now see a large increase in the amount of stars and objects in the same view. Again, become familiar with the common objects and star formations (compare with star chart).

3. When you can look up at the sky and start picking out objects/star constellations you are ready to start using your telescope. By completing steps 1 and 2 you will have multiplied your chances of really enjoying your telescope and amateur astronomy by 100.

4. Depending on the type of telescope, you may need to polar align your equipment or perform other alignment steps before you will be able to track objects (keeping your target centered in the eyepiece). Alignment steps are required if you choose to use your scope for imaging or photography.

5. Using your telescope, choose an object of interest to you from those that are available in your night sky (example Saturn). Always start with a low power eyepiece to locate your target and test seeing conditions. Increase the power if the object you are observing requires it. As a rule the higher the power the smaller the field of view becomes. Over powering the telescope is the second most common mistake amateur astronomers make. Power depends on seeing conditions, your telescope size, type, etc. and your selected target. Make sure you start low and work up to the desired power level that works well for the atmospheric conditions.

6. I suggest that you spend at least 5 to 7 nights observing the same object. I do not mean that this is the only object you visit each night. Perhaps you can start with  Saturn each observation session and then move on to other objects. This is the only way you will learn how to tell good conditions from bad. You will also notice changes in many objects-their position, color, cloud formations, etc. In a very short time you will be able to select your target object based on seeing conditions, location and power requirements. If conditions are OK pick planetary, lunar, etc. If conditions are great, go for the deep space objects.

7. In closing, remember that the time spent to learn your night sky will increase your ability to enjoy amateur astronomy. If you follow the above guidelines your frustration level should be minor. Be patient and persistent in your pursuit to view the best sights above.  



By jim@sightsabove.com