How to Use a Telescope Under Adverse Conditions

Light pollution is the bane of amateur astronomers but, like all difficulties, it can be overcome with discipline and precision. Researching the night sky can add to the stargazing experience.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sky Charts
• Telescope Carrying Cases
• Telescope Dew Caps
• Telescope Eyepieces
• Telescope Filters
• Telescope Focal Reducers
• Telescope Tripods
• Telescopes

1. Refuse to be defeated by light pollution.

2. Accept that, as cities and suburbs grow and more of us live in cities, the more likely it is that you will end up having to deal with less-than-perfect viewing conditions.

3. Exclude as much light as you can. Use a hood or open box over your head and telescope to shield light.

4. Keep your telescope as clean as possible to eliminate dirt and dust, which can further obstruct clear viewing.

5. View from a sheltered location and view after 11 PM.

6. Use interference filters, like nebulae filters, which are able to view the narrow wavelength light emitted by nebulas.

7. Negotiate with your neighbors to get them to turn off outdoor lights. Offer them a view through your telescope in trade.

8. Develop projects using star maps and atlases to know the night sky. Do your homework with highly detailed charts to make the most of your viewing time.

9. Buy better equipment if you want to view objects more closely or engage in deep sky viewing.

10. Travel to pristine locations, where clear viewing is possible.

Tips & Warnings

• One advantage to viewing under occluded conditions is that you must become a good star chart reader to orient yourself in the night sky.