Astronomy Hacks

Slow Down, You Move Too Fast, You’ve Got to Make the Evening Last

Take a second look and some notes. But above all, take your time. Attention to detail can be learned, and here’s where you’ll learn it.

There are two fundamental elements to visual observation of astronomical objects: the first is to locate the object, and the second is to observe it. Whether you use a telescope, a binocular, or the naked eye, the first is often so difficult for the beginning astronomer that little thought is given to the second. This is completely understandable and quite natural.

Furthermore, you’ve probably been looking at things all your life and think you know a little about how to do it. Right? Well, then, you must have noticed the pattern of the paper on this page: the swirls, thick and thin patches, color variation, etc. If you have, then you can probably skip the rest of this hack, as that attention to detail is exactly what is required of you in observing astronomical objects. If you haven’t, then, hopefully, you’ll find here some useful tips on how to improve your observing eye.

First, slow down! There are numerous tips for locating objects elsewhere in this book. For now, assume you’ve located a target. Now is the time to take a deep breath and relax. Leave the object in the field of view. If you have a scope with a drive, turn it on. If not, be sure you have an eyepiece with as wide a field of view as possible and keep the object close as you take a few minutes to recover from the task ...