How to Use a Telescope Tripod

All telescopes, other than some tabletop or simple refractor types, need a sturdy tripod for both security and optimal viewing. Most sizable telescopes are sold with a tripod, which may or may not be of the quality you'd prefer. Replace it if you need to, because your investment in telescope optics depends upon the security provided by your tripod.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Telescope
• Tripod

Choose Where to Site Your Telescope and Tripod

1. Select a site in the daytime, if possible. Your tripod's performance depends upon where it rests, so spend some time scouting an optimum ground site in view of what you want to observe.

2. Ensure that you have enough room for you, your equipment, any other observers and chairs, stools or ladders at the immediate site you have chosen.

3. Transport your equipment to the site an hour or so before viewing time, in order for the telescope lenses to acclimate to the environment.

Handle Your Telescope Tripod

4. Extend the retractable or folded legs of the tripod when you are ready to use your telescope.

5. Spread tripod legs to their maximum base angle. Some tripods have a built-in feature that does this automatically when you extend the first leg.

6. Lock the legs in open position. Some will require you to turn a knob, while others will simply snap into place.

7. Extend the stabilizing spreader bar or insert the accessory tray that serves as a leg spreader. Your tripod manual will tell you which kind you have.

8. Raise or lower the center column via hand crank or other mechanism specific to your tripod product. This sets the viewing height of the telescope, so make sure it's comfortable for use.

Tips & Warnings

• Tripod vertical supports are called "legs," and the horizontal base or "head" is where the telescope mounts.
• Telescope tripod mounts commonly come in two styles, "altazimuth" and "equatorial."
• Make sure that your particular telescope mount and any prospective tripod are compatible. Check the product detail listings before buying.
• Telescopes are heavier than most optics and need commensurate support. Check the weight rating on a prospective tripod against the weight of the optic you want to use.
• An accident with a telescope could hurt both you and the equipment. Be very careful moving around cumbersome tripods, which may make you more prone to tripping.
• Take special care in moving large instruments to a new site. Follow the manufacturer's directions for securing the optic before you move it.