MAS Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about astronomy (see also MAS Beginners page)
This page answers many commonly asked questions about astronomy. If you have a question on a subject any not covered here, please help support this page by using our on-line enquiry form (requires Java Script to be enabled).
Much of the material here has been taken from topics presented at out monthly meetings. If any member has subject they would like to present for 15-20 miniutes as a 'second half' topic, please contact the Meetings Secretary (to contribute directly to this page, please contact the Webmaster
(+) 0001 How do I find a local Astronomical Society ?
(+) 0002 How is Star brightness measured ?
(+) 0003 What are the Constellations ?
(+) 0004 What is the shape of the Earth ?
(+) 0005 What equipment do I need to start astronomy ?
(+) 0007 What telescope should I buy ?
(+) 0008 How much Magnification can I get ?
(+) 0013 What are Equatorial and Alt Az mounts ?
(-) 0100 How do I use my first telescope ?
The instructions that come with a telescope are often not as clear as one might hope ! Half an hour with someone who knows the 'routine' will probably save you hours/days of frustration. So don't worry it will all work out in the end. Then you will be able to follow the Moon, locate Saturn or find some of the wonderful clusters of stars in the night sky.
Advice:
To 'track' the stars the main axis of an EQ mount must be correctly aligned (angled up 52 degrees and pointed North)
Most EQ mounts come with adjustable counter-weights. It's important to 'balance' the telescope on the mount before turning on the motors (an unbalanced mount will put excessive strain on the gear-train and may not move at all !).
A common oversight is to skip the finder alignment step (which can make it very hard to find the object in the main scope eyepiece :-) )
Practice setting up in daylight before using it at night, always start with a low magnification eyepiece and 'aim' at something that can't be missed (such as the Moon) which will reveal any 'alignment' problems quickly !
This note last modified: 26th Jan 2015 11:39.