Can You Use a Spotting Scope for Astronomy

Can You Use a Spotting Scope for Astronomy?

Mother nature is the essence of life. It has a lot to ponder about it. So, if you are also one of those who want to enjoy the purity of nature, you can try to get closer to the natural scenes and the natural habitat.

It is now much easier to make this happen these days. Thanks to the latest models of cameras and other devices like spotting scopes!

Well! In addition to the outdoor activities, you can even use the spotting scopes to look into space. Yes! Isn’t it exciting? It surely is! You can enjoy looking up close to the stars and galaxies right from your balcony.

What is a Spotting Scope?


If you are wondering what this spotting scope is and how you can use it for various activities, here you can have the basic information:

  • It is a smaller sized telescope
  • It has additional features which enable you to see the enlarged image of the target.
  • You will be amazed to observe the remarkable capacity of a spotting scope to gather light.
  • The spotting scope lets more light pass through, determined by the specifications of its objective lens.
  • You can see various spotting scopes, but the price depends mainly on the size of the lens, which is usually between 5o to 80mm.
how far can you see with a spotting scope

Working of a spotting scope? 


The spotting scope has such a structure that makes it suitable for multiple purposes:

  • The prism or refracting objective lens, which is there behind the objective lens, enlarges the straight image of the object.
  • You can change or even replace the eyepiece of your spotting scope.
  • You can enjoy your hobby with a water-resistant spotting scope as you can also use them in moist areas.

Can you use a spotting scope for astronomy?


⇒ Check Eyepiece angle 

  • The design of a telescope is angled. This is not just an incident. It is done for a purpose. You will observe that usually, the angle of a telescope is 90 degrees.
  • You will mostly have a straight angle to view the target for your spotting scope, or even if you have an angled one, it will be only 45 degrees.
  • For that purpose, you will have to rest your spotting scope on a tripod.
  • Invest a bit more to go the extra mile for a tripod, tall enough to offer you the required convenience and perfection.
can a spotting scope be used for astronomy

⇒ The Size of objective lens and aperture.

 These are the simple rules about the relationship between the lens size and the aperture. It would help if you were mindful that you choose the perfect spotting scope to enable you to enjoy your activity.

  • If you have a larger aperture, it means that your spotting scope will capture more light.
  • The aperture is the diameter of the objective lens of the scope.
  • You need to understand that it is the power of the lens that makes it suitable to use for basic astronomy. It also determines how far you can see with a spotting scope.
  • Especially if you are trying to use your spotting scope at night stars, the aperture size is crucial.
  • Ideally, you should go for the 70mm objective lens as it will offer you the sharpest image of your target.

⇒Budget Management.

  • Since the basic purpose of the spotting scope is not stargazing, you might have to invest a bit more than usual.
  • This means that you are trying to use the spotting scope for something it is manufactured for.
  • You must go for the best quality, better coatings, perfect optics, and a high-quality glass lens.
  • The ideal choice in the situation will be if you opt for an extra-low dispersion glass.
  • You will have the sharpest image and no fringing of colors around the objects if you go for a relatively expensive but high-quality spotting scope.
Can You Use a Spotting Scope for Astronomy

Advantages of a Spotting scope to use as a telescope.


  • Ranging spotting scope: For all those who have a slightly angled spotting scope, you will find it easy to focus the objects, especially if they are located vertically. Moreover, the things look brighter when using a spotting scope with a magnification of at least 60x.
  • Waterproof: The Spotting scope mostly comes with a waterproof coating, making it easier for you to work in the moisture-laden area, like near a pool or a pond.
  • Digiscoping: Stargazing is indeed a unique experience. It enables you to view the far-off galaxies as if they are close up to you. An added advantage to using the spotting scope is that you can take live pictures of the stars and galaxies.
  • Light in weight: A spotting scope is light in weight, and you can carry it along with you anywhere, anytime. You can enjoy looking at the stars right on your balcony.
  • Cooling time: As a beginner, you might not have an idea about the cooling property of a spotting scope. But with time, you will realize that it is a blessing. Yes! Your spotting scope does not take long to adapt to the temperature of the surroundings, and it is more of a benefit for you if you are already working in hot weather.

Conclusion:


So, here is the information which you were looking for. All those keen astronomers who could not manage to buy a telescope can now go to the nearest store and grab the best spotting scope.

This will not only offer you an opportunity to view the faraway stars, but you will also enjoy the warmth and comfort of your house.

This is one of the reasons why the spotting scope is being widely used for astronomy these days. It is nothing less than a blessing, especially for beginners, to improve their photography skills and enjoy themselves.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published.