Most first nights go wrong for simple reasons: the finder is not aligned, the magnification is too high, or the telescope has not cooled down. This checklist avoids all three.
Before it gets dark
- Assemble the telescope in daylight, following its manual. Check that every screw is snug and that the tube moves smoothly on the mount.
- Align the finder during the day on a distant object such as a tower or a water tank, at least a kilometre away. See how to align the finder. Never point the telescope or finder near the Sun.
- Choose where to observe. A rooftop or courtyard with a clear view of the sky works well. Avoid looking over hot roofs, air-conditioner exhausts and generators: rising heat makes the view shimmer.
When you go out
- Carry the telescope out 30 minutes early. The mirror has to reach the outside temperature before the view becomes sharp.
- Start with the lowest magnification - the eyepiece with the largest number (for example 25 mm). It shows the widest, brightest and steadiest view and makes objects easy to find.
- Start with the Moon (if it is up) or a bright planet. They are easy to find and forgiving while you learn to focus.
- Focus slowly. Turn the focuser knob through its whole range until the edge of the Moon or the stars look sharp.
- Give your eyes time. Faint objects need about 20 minutes away from bright lights. Use a red torch or a phone with a red screen filter.
Things to take
- A red light, a chair, water and mosquito repellent.
- A planisphere or a sky app to know what is up tonight.
- Patience: planets show more detail in brief moments of steady air, so keep watching.
What to expect
Through the eyepiece, planets are small and bright, and nebulae look grey - not like photographs. See What can I see? for realistic expectations object by object.