How to Work Konus Junior Telescopes

An entry-level telescope is great for children.

If you child has shown an interest in astronomy, you likely did not go out and purchase the most expensive telescope you could find. A Konus Junior Telescope is a great beginner telescope for the budding astronomer. The KonusStart 700 is Konus’ preferred entry-level telescope due to features well-suited for the beginner. The operating instructions are basic and only take a few minutes to acclimate.

Instructions

1. Thread the diagonal eyepiece onto the focus located at the smaller end of the telescope. The diagonal is the black plastic eyepiece you look into. It looks like a black, plastic 90-degree elbow. Thread it until the elbow faces upward and the diagonal is firmly in place.

2. Point the lens at an object that is far away during the day. The lens has crosshairs imprinted on the glass. Center the cross hairs over the object. Expect the object to look blurry and do not be alarmed when the object you are looking at appears to be upside-down. This is normal as there is no up or down in space.

3. Adjust the large lens on the opposite end of the eyeglass left or right until the object comes into focus. This shows you how to focus on an item that is far away.

4. Locate a star in the sky or a planet at night and place the crosshairs over the object. Again, turn the lens left or right until the object comes into focus.

References

• UK Telescopes: KonusStart 700
• Texas Astro: TAS Telescope Buying Guide
• UK Telescopes:Beginner's Guide to Telescopes

Resources

• Vimeo: Astronomy