How to Choose Astronomy Binoculars

Many people end up purchasing expensive telescopes in order to view the stars, completely unaware that there's a vast array of binoculars that can be just as adequately used to stargaze. If you are looking to buy a pair of astronomy binoculars, or you simply don't want to spend lots of money on a new telescope, read this article to figure out how to choose astronomy binoculars.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Keep in mind what you're wanting to view. There are two numbers you want to keep in mind when choosing binoculars for astronomy purposes. The first is magnification, the second is the objective lens' diameter, otherwise known as the aperture. When it comes to binoculars, they will be listed in the format of magnification x aperture. 7x35, 10x15 and 10x50 are all examples of popular combinations. The larger the aperture, the greater the ability to gather light. If you want to see the details of more distant, faint objects, you'll want a larger aperture.

2. Think about whether you'd prefer a pair of binoculars for astronomy purposes that are light-weight and easy to hold, or that are powerful and can deliver both a clear and bright picture. The larger the aperture, the bulkier the binoculars, but you also get a much more impressive view of distant objects in the sky. Astronomical binoculars with an aperture larger than 60mm will need a tripod.

3. Choose Porro-Prism binoculars instead of Roof-Prisms. Roof-Prisms are best for ground viewing, whereas Porro-Prisms are great for stargazing. BAK-4 are the best Porro-Prisms, but can be much pricier. BAK-7's are cheaper, but the image will be inferior.

4. Make sure to purchase binoculars that are waterproof, so as to protect it from the weather, and that have fully multi-coated lenses.

[MrBB]

on 7/29/2009 Very informative. I never knew about the details of these binoculars before.