Celestial Observing; Observing The Moon; Observing The Planets - Celestron Travel Scope 70DX Instruction Manual

CELESTIAL OBSERVING

With your telescope set up, you are ready to use it for observing This section covers visual observing hints for solar system and
deep sky objects as well as general observing conditions which will affect your ability to observe

OBSERVING THE MOON

With your telescope set up, you are ready to use it for observing This section covers visual observing hints for solar system and
deep sky objects as well as general observing conditions which will affect your ability to observe
Often, it is tempting to look at the Moon when it is full At this time, the face
we see is fully illuminated and its light can be overpowering In addition,
little or no contrast can be seen during this phase One of the best times
to observe the Moon is during its partial phases (around the time of first or
third quarter) Long shadows reveal a great amount of detail on the lunar
surface At low power you will be able to see most of the lunar disk at
one time Change to optional eyepieces for higher power (magnification) to
focus in on a smaller area
Lunar Observing Hints
To increase contrast and bring out detail on the lunar surface, use optional
filters A yellow filter works well at improving contrast while a neutral density
or polarizing filter will reduce overall surface brightness and glare

OBSERVING THE PLANETS

Other fascinating targets include the five naked eye planets You can see Venus go through its lunar-like phases Mars can reveal
a host of surface detail and one, if not both, of its polar caps You may be able to see the cloud belts of Jupiter and the great Red
Spot (if it is visible at the time you are observing) In addition, you will also
be able to see the moons of Jupiter as they orbit the giant planet Saturn,
with its beautiful rings, is e visible at moderate power
Planetary Observing Hints
• Remember that atmospheric conditions are usually the limiting factor on
how much planetary detail will be visible So, avoid observing the planets
when they are low on the horizon or when they are directly over a source
of radiating heat, such as a rooftop or chimney See the "Seeing
Conditions" section later in this section
• To increase contrast and bring out detail on the planetary surface, try
using Celestron eyepiece filters
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