To: Sally II
Sally,
Forget about looking at individual stars through the telescope. The stars are so far away that you won't be able to see a disk, only a pinpoint of light. You need to look at other things. Start with Jupiter and it's moons. You will probably see the bands across Jupiter's disk and at least 4 moons (if they arn't behind Jupiter at the moment). Then go to Saturn and see the rings (if they arn't edge-on at the time of year you are looking). Go to Uranus and you might see a blue-green disk (with no features). Get a sky chart and hop-scotch your way from one point of light to the next and you might actually see Pluto! (but doubtful if you only bought a $1,000 telescope).
Best objects besides the big planets are the galaxies and nebulas. And the occasional comets!
At any rate, it's a great reason to bond with your family outside at night while sipping some hot chocolate!
As the cruise line advertising says..."GET OUT THERE"!
LOL!
Enjoy the time with your Dad.
To: Ronaldus Magnus Reagan
Thanks for the advice, Ronaldus. When we've tried looking at the stars we just aimed for the brightest lights. I guess that wasn't the best method. We'll give it another try on a clear night. :o)
21 posted on
02/25/2003 10:19:29 PM PST by
Sally II
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