How to Buy a Telescope Eyepiece

Every amateur astronomer who owns a telescope should have several eyepieces because changing them allows for viewing objects at various magnifications.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Barlow Lenses
• Telescope Carrying Cases
• Telescope Eyepieces
• Telescope Filters
• Telescope Focal Reducers
• Telescopes

1. Buy a telescope with at least a 1 1/4-inch eyepiece: the industry standard size.
2. Purchase a variety of eyepieces to view objects at different magnifications. Swap eyepieces to find the one that works best for a particular object.
3. Know that the more expensive an eyepiece is, the more lens elements it has and, subsequently, the wider field of view it has.
4. Be aware, however, that amateur astronomers don't necessarily need eyepieces with complicated lens elements.
5. Consider purchasing a Barlow lens, which is used in conjunction with an eyepiece and increases magnification. It will double or triple the magnifying power of your eyepiece collection.

Tips & Warnings

• Always store extra eyepieces in sealed plastic containers or storage bags.
• Don't purchase a telescope with a 0.96-inch-wide eyepiece. It indicates that the telescope is below standard quality.