Orion StarBlast Instruction Manual page 9

Stars: Even powerful telescopes cannot magnify a star to appear as more than a
point of light. You can, however, enjoy the different colors of the stars and
locate many double and multiple stars. Look at the middle star in the handle of the
Big Dipper, Mizar. It is really two stars very close together. Being able to see the
two stars separate is called "Star Splitting". The gorgeous two-color double star,
Albireo, in Cygnus, is a favorite. Defocusing a star slightly can help bring out its
color.
Deep-Sky Objects: Under dark skies, you can see lots of fascinating deep-sky
objects, including nebulas, star clusters, and a variety of different types of galaxies.
Most deep-sky objects are very faint, so it is important that you find an observing
site well away from light pollution. Take plenty of time to let your eyes adjust to the
darkness. Do not expect these subjects to appear like the photos you see in books
and magazines; many will look like dim gray smudges. As you become more
experienced and your observing skills get sharper, you will be able to ferret out
more and more subtle details and structure. Star clusters are particularly pretty,
usually bright and easy to see.
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