How to Use a Telescope (Explained for Beginners)

This site contains affiliate links to products. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links.

Using a telescope is more complex than it may appear. It’s not just about looking through a hole. Navigating coordinates and locating celestial bodies require precise calculations and patience.

Sometimes it can be like finding a needle in a haystack.

If you are new to astronomy, this article is for you. This telescope beginner guide will show you how to use a telescope. It will also explain the different parts of a telescope and tell you about different observing techniques.

Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Understanding the key parts of a telescope

Gaining a solid understanding of the various components of a telescope is key to getting the most out of your first observing experience.

By learning about the different parts, you’ll be better equipped to use your telescope effectively

Here are some of them:

Optical tube

An optical tube in a telescope is the telescope tube. It’s the main component that gathers and focuses light from distant objects. This allows the observer to see details not visible to the naked eye.

You might see the brightest object in the sky with your naked eye. But you won’t be able to see faint objects without a telescope. This can be a faint star or the details of the lunar surface.

The optical tube is made up of several components. They are as follows:

Objective lens or mirror

This is the large lens or curved mirror at the front of the optical tube. It collects light from deep-sky objects and focuses it on forming an image.

The size and shape of the lens determine the telescope’s aperture. This affects the light-gathering power and the level of detail that can be seen.

Focus mechanism

The focus mechanism allows the observer to adjust the focus of the image. In a refractor telescope, the focus mechanism consists of a movable lens called the eyepiece lens.

In a Newtonian reflector telescope, the focus mechanism involves adjusting the position of the secondary mirror.

Telescope’s eyepiece

The eyepiece is the lens at the rear of the tube. It magnifies the focused light to form a final, magnified image.

The magnification is determined by the eyepiece’s focal length divided by the focal length of the main objective lens.

Tube body

The tube body is the outer casing of the optical tube that holds everything in place. It protects the delicate optics from dust, debris, and mechanical stress.

A couple of things determine an optical tube’s overall performance in a telescope. These include the quality of the components and their alignment.

High-quality optical tubes with well-aligned components perform better. They produce sharper, clearer images. These images have less chromatic aberration, distortion, and other visual artifacts.

Mount

The mount in a telescope is a mechanical structure that supports the optical tube. It allows the observer to point the telescope at objects in the sky.

A mount can play a critical role in a telescope’s overall performance and stability. This is especially true for longer exposures or high-power observations.

There are two main mounts used in telescopes: altazimuth and equatorial mounts.

An altazimuth mount allows the observer to move the telescope in four directions. These are up and down (altitude) and left and right (azimuth).

This type of mount is simple to use and often less expensive. However, it does not track objects as they move across the sky.

An equatorial mount is designed to track the motion of celestial objects as they move across the sky. It is great for a long observing session.

This is done by aligning the mount’s rotational axis with the Earth’s rotational axis. A motor-driven mechanism moves the mount to compensate for the Earth’s rotation.

Equatorial mounts are more complex than altazimuth mounts. But they are essential for long-exposure astrophotography and precise observations.

In addition to the mount type, several other factors affect a mount’s performance. These include the materials and construction quality of the mount, the accuracy of its pointing and tracking, and the ease of use and maintenance.

A well-designed and well-made mount can provide a stable platform for observing and imaging. This helps in producing sharp, clear images with minimal vibrations or movement.

Therefore, the quality of the mount can significantly affect your observing session.

Tripod

The tripod is a critical component of a telescope. It provides a stable and level base for the instrument. It is designed to hold the telescope steady and prevent vibrations during observations. This ensures clear and sharp images.

The tripod is usually made of metal, such as aluminum or steel. It is adjustable in height to accommodate different observing positions. It also helps to align the telescope’s eyepiece at a comfortable height.

The legs of the tripod are typically adjustable. They can be locked into position to provide stability on uneven surfaces.

The tripod head is the part of the tripod that supports the mount. It is typically a platform attached to the tripod’s legs. It also has a mechanism for attaching the mount.

There are two main types of tripod heads: the pan head and the altazimuth head.

The pan head allows the observer to pan the telescope horizontally and vertically. This is useful for tracking deep-sky objects. This type of head is commonly used for visual observations and general photography.

On the other hand, the altazimuth head provides a more fluid movement. It allows the observer to move the telescope up and down and from side to side.

Here’s a good Celestron heavy-duty altazimuth tripod.

Eyepiece

An eyepiece in a telescope is a cylindrical lens mounted at the end of the focuser. This is the part of the telescope that adjusts the focus of the incoming light.

The eyepiece magnifies the image formed by the objective lens. It then brings the image into focus so that the observer can see the details of the celestial object being viewed.

Eyepieces come in a variety of designs and sizes. Each eyepiece has its own unique set of features and characteristics. Telescope eyepieces determine how much magnification can be produced.

Some eyepieces have a larger field of view, allowing the observer to see a wider sky area. This is usually the lowest power eyepiece.

Others have a higher magnification, providing a closer and more detailed view. This is usually a high-power eyepiece.

The magnification of the eyepiece is determined by the lens length divided by the lens length of the telescope.

Eyepieces can also have different types of coatings to improve image quality. They also help in reducing chromatic aberrations. This helps in producing the correct image of the celestial object.

Additionally, some eyepieces have special features like crosshairs or reticles. These are used for aligning the telescope. It also allows us to measure the positions of celestial objects.

You may also like: Best Telescope Eyepieces for Viewing Planets.

Finder scope

A finder scope is a small telescope attached to the main telescope. It helps locate and center celestial objects in the field of view of the main telescope.

It is typically mounted on the main telescope and has crosshairs or a reticle. This helps in aligning the main telescope on the desired object.

The finder scope has a lower magnification than the main telescope. This makes it easier to locate objects in the night sky.

When the object is centered in the finder scope, it should also be centered in the field of view of the main telescope.

This saves time and helps avoid frustration when locating objects in the night sky. This is an especially great tool for inexperienced observers and other amateur astronomers.

There are two main types of finder scopes: the red dot finder and the optical finder scope.

The red dot finders project a red light onto a clear window. This makes it easy to locate objects in the sky.

On the other hand, the optical finder scope uses a small telescope to magnify the view of the sky. This also makes it easier to locate objects.

Get this Celestron Illuminated RACI Finder Scope on Amazon

Diagonal mirror

A diagonal mirror is an optical component used in some telescope configurations. It directs the light path at a 90-degree angle to the telescope’s axis. This makes for a convenient viewing angle.

The diagonal mirror is typically placed between the eyepiece and the objective.

In refracting telescopes, the diagonal mirror is used to correct the inverted image produced by the objective lens.

The image is oriented properly by redirecting the light path to a 90-degree angle, facilitating easier viewing for the observer.

In reflecting telescopes, the diagonal mirror can improve the viewing angle. It also helps in reducing the amount of light lost due to vignetting.

Diagonal mirrors come in various shapes and sizes, and they can be made from various materials, such as glass or metal. Some diagonal mirrors are also coated with special coatings to improve image quality. It also reduces chromatic aberrations.

Focuser

The focuser is an important component of a telescope. It is used to adjust the focus of the incoming light and produce a clear image. It is typically located between the eyepiece and the objective lens.

Its purpose is to fine-tune the focus of the incoming light to produce a sharp and clear image.

Telescopes have two main types of focusers: the rack-and-pinion focuser and the Crayford focuser.

The rack-and-pinion focuser uses a gear mechanism to move the drawtube in and out to adjust the focus. This is the tube that holds the eyepiece.

The Crayford focuser uses a smooth, friction-based system. It is less likely to shift or wear over time. This focuser system is usually used in high-end telescopes.

The focuser can be adjusted manually or with a motorized focuser. A computer can control this motor to automate the focusing process.

Some focusers also can rotate the eyepiece to a more convenient viewing angle. This can be especially useful for observers who use a star diagonal or binocular viewer.

Barlow lens

A Barlow lens is an optical device used in telescopes to increase the eyepiece’s magnification. It is a simple lens between the eyepiece and the telescope’s objective lens.

The Barlow lens works by increasing the effective focal length of the tube. This results in a higher magnification.

A Barlow lens can be especially useful for observing celestial objects that are too small or faint. These objects can’t be seen easily with a low-power eyepiece.

By inserting a Barlow lens into the optical path, the eyepiece’s magnification can be increased. This makes it easier to see the object of interest. It can also help with viewing a bright star better.

There are different types of Barlow lenses available. They range from simple two-element lenses to multi-element lenses. All of them provide higher magnification and improved image quality.

Some Barlow lenses are also designed to be used with specific types of eyepieces or telescope configurations. Therefore, choosing the right Barlow lens for the first telescope is important.

This Celestron Omni 2X Barlow Lens is perfect for your telescope

Dew shield

A dew shield is a simple accessory used to prevent dew from forming on the lens of a telescope. Dew can form on the objective lens of a telescope during the night. This is especially true during humid or damp conditions.

The dew shield works by directing the airflow over the lens. This prevents moisture from condensing on the surface.

A dew shield typically consists of a cylindrical or conical-shaped piece that fits over the lens.

Some dew shields are made of metal, while others are made of plastic.

Some dew shields are designed to be permanently attached to the telescope. However, most can be removed when not in use.

A dew shield is important for maintaining the quality of the telescope’s optics. It also ensures clear, sharp images.

Dew can cause the lens to become foggy. This reduces the image quality and contrast. Additionally, the moisture can cause permanent damage to the optics if it is not removed.

We recommend this Celestron – Deluxe Telescope Dew Shield for dew prevention.

11 tips to use a telescope for beginners

Using a telescope effectively takes more than pointing your scope at the sky and looking into the eyepiece.

It would be best to do a few things to get a rich experience when observing astronomical objects through a telescope. These include:

1. Choose the right location

You should choose a location with zero or little light pollution when using a telescope.

Telescopes work by collecting light from the sky objects. The more light the telescope collects from the object, the clearer the image it produces. Unfortunately, local light sources (e.g., from street lights) can interfere, making the images blurry.

Use your scope in locations where you can get dark skies. When moving to a dark sky site is not possible, try to limit light pollution.

For example, using the scope close to a fence that blocks off light from a street light can make a lot of difference.

2. Familiarize yourself with the telescope

Familiarize yourself with your telescope by knowing the kind of image that it produces. This helps you interact with it better when you’re using it to view astronomical objects.

Some telescopes give erect images, while others give inverted images. Knowing the kind of image your telescope gives helps you understand the orientation of astronomical objects you see in the eyepiece.

To familiarize yourself with your telescope, point it at a familiar object (a parked car) and look into the eyepiece to see if the image is erect or inverted.

3. Choose the right time

Telescopes give the best images of subjects under clear skies and stable air.

It is important to choose the right time for stargazing. The best combo is when the weather and the air are stable.

4. Choose the right eyepiece

The eyepiece determines the telescope’s magnification and the field of view size. Choosing an eyepiece with a shorter focal length can give your scope a higher magnification, allowing you to see fainter objects.

The build quality of the eyepiece is also important. For example, the individual lens elements within the eyepiece should have non-reflective coatings. This reduces reflections between the lens surface which could reduce contrast and blur the view.

In this regard, choose eyepieces advertised as “fully multi-coated” or multi-coated.

5. Start with easy-to-find objects

Even with a powerful telescope, some astronomical objects are difficult to image. Beginners can quickly get frustrated when seeking such objects.

Thus, one of the best advice for beginner astronomers is to start with easier-to-find objects. As you hone your skill in stargazing, you can seek harder-to-find star treasures.

Some easy-to-find objects to seek out are the Orion nebula, Andromeda galaxy, and the Pleiades.

6. Use a star chart or planisphere

A star chart is a device that helps you learn about the sky and identify stars and constellations. A planisphere will show the visible stars for any date and time.

For a beginner amateur astronomer that does not know what to look for in the sky, a star chart is an invaluable companion in a stargazing adventure.

7. Use a red flashlight

A red flashlight helps you see stuff in your dark surroundings with minimal impact on your night vision.

Astronomy loves the dark. You need a dark-sky site to get richer images. Your eyes must also adapt to the darkness to get the best experience viewing the image in the eyepiece.

Unfortunately, when you use a flashlight in your location, your eyes lose their dark adaptation.

However, with the regular white flashlight, your eyes need 40+ minutes to readapt to the dark. But with a red flashlight, your eyes will need only about 10 minutes to readapt.

See this Portable METII Upgraded Red Flashlight. Its 2-in-1 design lets you use it as an astronomy flashlight (around your observation location) and a regular white-light torch (when away from your observation location).

Check the current price on Amazon

8. Use an app to locate objects

An astronomy app will help you find and locate objects in the night sky.

The regular motion of astronomical objects leaves them in predictable positions. Astronomy apps use algorithms that accurately predict where objects will be in the sky at any time.

All you need to do is point your phone at any patch of the sky. Using your phone’s GPS, the astronomy app will give you a virtual sky map in your device’s field of view.

9. Practice patience

Astronomy takes a lot of time and patience. For example, after finding an ideal observation location and setting up, you’ll not get the best results if you start looking immediately.

It would be best to let your telescope acclimate to the ambient temperature. This can take 30 minutes for small and medium telescopes and up to an hour for large ones. It would help to wait for your eyes to adapt to the dark.

Finding some astronomical objects and seeing the finer details (features) in others requires practice and patience.

10. Learn about the celestial objects

Learning about celestial objects gives you much information about them to enrich your stargazing experience.

For example, consider learning about Mars. You’ll know that the best time to look for Mars in the sky is when it’s in opposition. You’ll also know what features to look for when viewing the red planet.

11. Join a stargazing group or club

Joining a stargazing group or club connects you with like-minded individuals eager to help you develop your stargazing skills.

You get an amateur astronomy community where you can learn about new equipment and techniques to enrich your experience.

A great astronomy club that can guide you in your astronomy journey is the Virtual Astronomy Club. They offer detailed monthly guides and challenges you can attempt.

Another space to follow if you are an astronomy enthusiast is the Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles. They host special events that connect people to special sights in the sky.

Alternatively, subscribe to an astronomy resource to get more useful information.

You may also like: Why I Can’t See Anything Through My Telescope?

Telescope observing techniques

When you learn how to use a telescope, you need to learn some observational astronomy. This involves learning different observing techniques to help you view your object of interest.

Let’s quickly review the different observing techniques that can help you use a telescope better.

Star hopping

Star hopping is a way to navigate the night sky and locate celestial objects with a telescope.

This technique uses familiar and easily recognizable brighter stars as reference points to locate the desired object.

Star hopping is particularly useful for finding faint or obscure objects. It is a common method amateur astronomers use to observe the night sky.

Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how star hopping works:

Familiarize yourself with the night sky: Learn about the constellations that are visible in your area. This will make it easier to use stars as reference points to find the object you are looking for. This is especially important in a light-polluted location.
Start with a low-power eyepiece: Start using a low-power eyepiece to get a wide-field view of the sky. This will allow you to see more of the sky. It will make it easier to identify stars and constellations.
Identify reference stars: Start by identifying a few bright and easily recognizable stars near the object you are looking for. These stars will be used as reference points to help you find the object.
Move the telescope to the first reference star: Use the telescope’s finder scope to center the first reference star in the field of view. A red dot finder will be great for this.
Identify the next reference star: Use the telescope to identify the next reference star in the field of view. The next reference star should be located in the general direction of the object you are looking for.
Repeat steps 4 and 5: Continue to move the telescope to each reference star in the general direction of the object you are looking for. Do this until you have reached the final reference star.
Locate the object: At this point, you should be close to the object you are looking for. Use the telescope to scan the area around the final reference star carefully. You should now be able to locate the object.

Targeted observing

Targeted observing uses a telescope to observe specific celestial objects with a high degree of accuracy.

This technique is particularly useful for observing objects that are faint, small, or difficult to locate.

It allows you to aim the telescope at the desired object precisely. This helps to minimize the time spent searching for the celestial object.

You will need a computerized telescope for this. Ideally, it should take a few seconds with a computerized mount.

Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how targeted observing works:

Choose a target: Decide which celestial object you would like to observe. Once you have finalized the object, start gathering information about its position and characteristics. This information can be obtained from star charts, astronomy software, or other resources. You can also find this information in an astronomy magazine.
Mount the telescope: Mount the telescope on a sturdy tripod. Make sure that it is level and balanced.
Align the finder scope: Align both your finder and the main telescope. This involves pointing the finder scope in the same direction as the main telescope. This will make it easier to locate the target object.
Input the target coordinates: Enter the target’s coordinates into the telescope’s computerized mount. The computer will use the coordinates to calculate the object’s position in the sky. You can also do this manually, but it saves a lot of time if you do it on a computer.
Locate the target: Use the finder scope to locate the target object in the sky. The finder scope will display a reticle. If you are using a red dot finder, it will be a red dot. The marker will show the target’s position relative to the stars in the sky.
Center the target in the finder scope: Center the target in the finder scope by adjusting the telescope’s position. Do this until the target is in the center of the reticle.
Switch to the main telescope: Now, you can view the object through the actual telescope. It will provide a higher magnification view of the target.
Fine-tune the position: Fine-tune the telescope’s position by adjusting the focus. You can also track the target if it is not stationary. If you have a computerized mount, it will automatically keep the target centered in the field of view. This helps with moving objects and keeps them focused.

Scanning the skies

Scanning the skies is a method of observing the night sky with a telescope. You scan the sky for interesting objects rather than having a specific target.

This technique is ideal for beginners and those unfamiliar with the night sky. It allows you to become familiar with the stars, constellations, and other celestial objects.

Moreover, it allows you to channel your intuitiveness and explore the deep sky objects.

Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how scanning the skies works:

Choose a location: Choose a dark sky location. Going to this location on a clear night is a great idea. Ideal locations are away from artificial lights.
Mount the telescope: Mount the telescope on a sturdy tripod. Make sure that it is level and balanced.
Use a star chart: Use a star chart to familiarize yourself with the constellations and other celestial objects in the sky. Alternatively, you can also use an augmented reality app on your smartphone. SkySafari is a great example of such an app.
Start scanning: Start scanning the sky. Start from one end of the horizon and sweep across the sky to the other end. Use a low-magnification eyepiece to cover a large area of the sky. Initially, it would help if you were looking for bright stars, planets, and other objects.
Zoom in: When you come across an interesting object, zoom in for a closer look. Use a higher magnification eyepiece to get a better view of the object. You might need to switch eyepieces for this if you don’t have a finder scope.
Identify the object: Use a star chart or other reference materials to identify the object you’re observing. An augmented reality smartphone app can help with this. You need to point your phone in the direction of your telescope. The app will automatically tell you everything in the sky in that direction.

Planetary observing

Planetary observation is a technique of observing the planets in our solar system using a telescope.

This technique is ideal for those who are interested in observing the planets. It also involves taking a closer look at the different planetary features.

This includes things like their Moons, rings, and atmospheric conditions.

Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how planetary observing works:

Choose a location: Choose a location with a clear, dark sky away from artificial lights.
Mount the telescope: Mount the telescope on a sturdy tripod, ensuring it is level and balanced.
Choose a planet: Choose a planet that is currently visible in the sky. Some great planets are Jupiter, Saturn, Mars, Venus, and Mercury. They are bright and close enough to be easily visible. You can see them clearly with most telescopes.
Point the telescope: Point the telescope at the chosen planet. You can also use a finder scope or a computerized mount to help you find it. You can enter the coordinates of the planet into the computer. It will then automatically locate the planet for you.
Use a low-magnification eyepiece: If you don’t want to use your computer, you must locate the planet manually. Use a low-magnification eyepiece to get a wide view of the planet and its surroundings. This will make it easier to locate the planet.
Observe the planet: You can look for different craters and geological characteristics. You can also compare how the planet looks to how it looked long ago. This will help you spot changes in its appearance over time. These can include changes in the position of its Moons or the appearance of its atmospheric features.
Increase magnification: If the planet is large enough, you can increase the magnification. This will help you get a closer view of its features. It will be especially interesting to note the terrain and contrast it with the earth’s.
Take notes: Take note of the appearance of the planet and its features. You need to include the time and date of your observations as well. You also need to log the type of telescope and eyepiece you used. Plus, you have to report the atmospheric conditions at the observation time. This data can then be uploaded to a public database to help other astronomers study the planet.

Read also: 21 Best telescopes to see planets

Deep-sky observing

Deep-sky observing is a technique of observing distant celestial objects such as galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters.

This technique is ideal for those interested in observing the vastness of the universe. It allows you to see the beauty of distant celestial objects.

Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how deep-sky observing works:

Choose a location: This time, you need to go to a place far away from big city centers. The best places for this are secluded mountaintops or deserts. Light pollution can obscure many of these faint objects.
Mount the telescope: Mount the telescope on a sturdy tripod. Remote locations usually have uneven terrain, so it’s important to ensure that it is level and balanced.
Choose an object: Choose a deep-sky object like a galaxy, nebula, or star cluster. Make sure that it is currently visible in the sky.
Point the telescope: You can use a star chart or a computerized telescope mount to help you find the object.
Use a low-magnification eyepiece: If you don’t want to use coordinates, you can find the object manually. Use a low-magnification eyepiece to get a wide view of the object and its surroundings. This will help you locate the object.
Observe the object: Observe the object and its features. You can look at its shape, color, and brightness. Look for details such as star clusters, dark lanes, or other features that may be visible.
Increase magnification: If you want a closer view of its features, you can increase the magnification. This will help you get a better look at the details.
Take notes: As with every observation, make sure that you log all the details. This includes the time, date, and place of your observation. It also includes the atmospheric conditions and the type of telescope used.

You may also like: What Telescope Size Do I Need to See Galaxies?

Frequently asked questions

By now, you should have mastered the basics of a telescope. However, here are the answers to a few questions that might be on your mind.

Can I observe through a telescope with both eyes?

Yes, you can observe through a telescope with both eyes. However, many experienced astronomers prefer to observe with one eye. Observing with one eye helps you to maintain your night vision.

It also helps you better appreciate the field of view the eyepiece offers.

Plus, it’s easier to maintain focus with one eye. That’s especially true if your eyepiece doesn’t have ample eye relief.

Is using a telescope harmful to the eyes?

Using a telescope itself is not harmful to the eyes. However, looking at the sun directly through a telescope can cause serious damage to your eyes.

Always make sure never to look at the sun directly. Use a proper solar filter when observing the sun. A solar filter helps to protect your eyes against the electromagnetic waves of the sun.

You should also use a moon filter when looking at the moon. This will help in protecting your eyes against cosmic radiation.

Is it necessary to wear my glasses when looking through a telescope?

It depends on your individual needs. If you require glasses for normal vision, it is recommended to wear them when observing through a telescope.

The eyepiece may need to be corrected for your specific vision requirements. Therefore, wearing your glasses is advised when looking through a telescope. It will help you to see the objects more clearly.

Is looking at people through a telescope considered illegal?

It is generally considered to be unethical. Using a telescope to observe people without their consent can also be illegal.

It is also considered illegal to observe people in private places without their consent.

Observing people in public places is generally acceptable. However, it is always important to respect the privacy of others.

You may also like:

Takeaway: Experience the thrill of observing the cosmos with a telescope by mastering its utilization

Using a telescope is easy once you know how different components work. Some essential components you need to know are the optical tube, mount, tripod, focuser, finder scope, and Barlow lens.

Once you understand how these components work, you can adjust the telescope according to your needs. This will help you in getting the best pictures.

You can also learn to use different optical systems to view things other than the most obvious bright star.

There are several kinds of viewing techniques used by astronomers. Some of them are star hopping, targeted observing, scanning the skies, planetary observing, and deep-sky observing

Once you get the hang of all of this, it’s easy to start using your telescope. Before investing in a new telescope, be sure to conduct thorough research to ensure you make the best choice. Here’s a great resource to learn about which telescope best suits your needs!