Wednesday, November 28, 2007

What can I see?

A common astronomy question I get this time of year from beginner's is, "What can I see?". To answer, I patiently explain that it's not so much a matter of "What" as it is "How much". This is true in binocular astronomy as well as telescope astronomy. For instance, you don't even need a binocular to see Saturn or Jupiter or Mars. You can see those without any optical instrument at all. All a binocular or telescope does is show you more detail. In fact, if you are observing from a truly dark sky site, you can see the Andromeda galaxy, many star clusters and some nebulae with your naked eye. No optics needed. All a binocular (or telescope) does is show you MORE of these objects and MORE detail in these objects. The extent of each is a matter of the binocular or telescope used.
 
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