Observing Basics: Buying Binoculars

Five tips when buying binoculars

1. Make sure you can hold the binoculars to access the quality of the workmanship.

2. Look in the front lenses for any dust or contamination. Make sure the inside is immaculate.

3. Determine how much the binoculars weigh and if they can be mounted on a tripod. Heavy binoculars equal tired arms.

4. Look through the binoculars to make sure they focus properly and show the entire field of view.

5. If you wear glasses, test the binoculars with them on to ensure they are still comfortable and can get close enough to your eyes.

Expand your observing at Astronomy.com

StarDome
Check out Astronomy.com's interactive StarDome to see an accurate of your sky. This tool will help you locate this week's targets.

Intro to the Sky: Get to know the night sky
Learn how to use star charts, find constellations, and observe the brightest objects in your night sky with in this handy reference section.

The Sky this Week
Get aÒšdaily digest of celestial events coming soon to a sky near you.

Observing Talk
After you listen to the podcast and try to find the objects, be sure to share your observing experience with us by leaving a comment at the blog or in the Reader Forums.