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ABOUT MAGNIFICATION
The magnification power of a telescope indicates how much an image is enlarged or how big and close it appears to the viewer.
The focal length of the eyepiece, combined with the focal length of the telescope, determine the magnification power. To calculate
the power of your telescope with any particular eyepiece, simply divide the focal length of the telescope (360mm) by the focal
length of the eyepiece (indicated in “mm” on the eyepiece collar).
Example: 360mm focal length (tube) = 18X magnification power
20mm focal length (eyepiece)
The two interchangeable eyepieces included, provide the following magnification powers:
Eyepiece Power
20mm 18X
4mm 90X
The level of magnification required depends on the object being observed.
A lower magnification power with a wider field of view is good for observing galaxies and nebulae. Higher magnification power
should only be used for highly detailed observations of the moon, Jupiter, and Saturn, or any object that is extremely bright.
USING YOUR TELESCOPE
1) Take your telescope outside. Viewing objects through closed or open windows is not recommended. Your view can be
distorted by reflections in the glass of a closed window or by air currents, of differing temperatures, passing through an open
window.
2) Let your telescope adjust to the outside temperature. Your telescope will perform much better if the lenses and the air inside
the tube are the same temperature as outside. It may take up to 15 minutes to equalize the temperatures when the difference
in temperatures is extreme.
3) Find a location far from glaring light. If you live in an urban area, your viewing will probably improve the farther you move away
from the city lights. The skyglow of a town or city can dramatically reduce the telescope’s performance and viewing
capabilities.
When possible, avoid sudden temperature changes, as the moisture in the air will condense on the objective lens. Should this
occur after bringing your telescope inside, leave the lens cap off the objective lens, tilt the objective (front) lens face down, and wait
until the telescope reaches room temperature.
With the diagonal mirror already attached and in place, we recommend starting your viewing with the low power 20mm eyepiece
because it gives you the widest angle with the brightest and sharpest views. To adjust the angle of the telescope, loosen the
azimuth lock knob by turning it counterclockwise. Adjust the telescope to the desired angle, then tighten the azimuth lock knob.
NOTE: When using the diagonal mirror, objects will appear right-side up in your telescope, but reversed, like a reflection
in a mirror. This is normal, and does not indicate a defect.
Care and Cleaning of Optics
Optical components of a telescope get dirty over time. Dirt or dust on a lens should be removed only with the utmost care. A
considerable amount of dirt or dust would have to accumulate on the optical surface before your view would be compromised.
1) Keeping any dust caps on during storage and transport will reduce dust collection.
2) Condensation may collect on the optical surfaces when the telescope is not in use. Remove the dust caps and allow the
moisture to evaporate naturally. Point the telescope downwards to minimize the accumulation of airborne dust.
3) Once all moisture has evaporated, replace the dust caps.
4) Filtered compressed air may be used to remove surface dust from lenses and mirrors. Remove the dust cap and the dew
shield. Once removed, point the can away from the lens and gently expel some air and any condensation or dust that has
accumulated on the discharge tube. Spray the lens or mirror with short bursts of air to carefully remove the dust particles. DO
NOT HOLD THE TRIGGER OF THE COMPRESSED AIR CAN FOR EXTENDED PERIODS BECAUSE PROPELLANT FROM
THE CAN MIGHT ESCAPE AND DAMAGE THE OPTICAL SURFACE.
If, after several attempts, you cannot remove the particles, take the telescope to an optical professional for cleaning.
If you keep the dust caps on your telescope when it is not in use and avoid handling the lenses or mirrors, only minimal optical
maintenance of your telescope should be required. Extensive cleaning is usually only necessary every few years.
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