How to Use Your Telescope

In this 4 week class, students will learn how to use their telescope to observe objects in the night sky. Students MUST have access to a telescope for this class (you must bring your own telescope or borrow one from a friend, relative, or local library; I will not provide a telescope for you). It is also very important to bring the telescope to class if possible (if not, then you must at least bring its specification sheet to class).

Week 1:
Students will learn about what type of telescope they have and what they can expect to see through it depending on its specifications and their general (not specific) location. We will interpret the specifications for their telescope to determine its characteristics. We will also determine the type of mount the telescope has and learn about the differences between equatorial and altitude/azimuthal mounts. Then we will discuss how to set up the telescope to begin observing (including polar alignment if necessary). If a student has a go-to motorized mount, then I will teach them how to calibrate it. 

Week 2:
We will discuss the proper way to use eyepieces and any other accessories the students may have to achieve the most optimal viewing experience. We will cover eyepiece powers, barlows, focal reducers, the proper usage of filters, and how to take care of the equipment. Then I will teach the students how to record their observations. We will also talk about the students' observational interests as time allows. 

Week 3:
Students will use a free planetarium software program called "Stellarium" and input their telescope's parameters to determine what they can expect to see in the coming nights. I will give them an overview of how to use the software so that the students may use it for planning their future observations, as well as tips for selecting appropriate observation targets. Making an observation plan greatly increases your chances of having a successful observing session. 

Week 4:
Students will share what they saw while observing and any challenges they might have encountered along the way. As an observational astronomer, I have ample experience with troubleshooting telescope equipment. This is their opportunity to ask me about any problems they encountered and how they can avoid those problems in the future. In the remaining time, I will share the specifications of my personal telescope setup and some of the astrophotography that I have taken with it. 

For homework, the students will be expected to use their telescope at least once throughout the 4 weeks that this course runs. They will be expected to have access to the night sky so that they can make their observation(s). This class is purposely 4 weeks long to maximize the opportunity of having at least one clear night to test what was learned in class. 

"Introduction to Observational Astronomy: Night Sky Navigation" is the recommended prerequisite for this class, although if the student already has a decent understanding of the night sky then this can be omitted. I also recommend this class as a prerequisite for students that are interested in taking my "Observational Astronomy: Deep-Sky Objects" class in the future.