Setup, Gear and Care
How to Calculate Telescope Magnification
Learn how to calculate telescope magnification, compare eyepiece and Barlow combinations, and choose useful power for clear views of the Moon, planets, and stars.
Setup, Gear and Care
Set up, align, collimate and connect your telescope, plus eyepieces, finders, filters and phone adapters.
Setup, Gear and CareHow to Collimate a Newtonian Telescope
Learn how to collimate a Newtonian telescope by checking the secondary and primary mirrors, making small adjustments, and confirming alignment before observing.
Setup, Gear and CareHow to Connect a Telescope to a Computer
Learn how to connect a telescope to a computer by USB, WiFi, or camera. Check mount compatibility, choose software, set up the connection, and fix common problems.
Setup, Gear and CareHow to Set Up a Telescope for the First Time
Learn how to set up a telescope for the first time, attach the mount and finder, align the finder, choose an eyepiece, and focus on a clear target.
Setup, Gear and CareTelescope Eyepieces Explained for Beginners
Learn how telescope eyepiece focal lengths, magnification, field of view, and fit affect your view, then choose a practical first eyepiece or set.
Setup, Gear and CareTelescope Phone Adapters: What to Know Before You Buy
Compare telescope phone adapters by eyepiece fit, phone size, alignment controls, and shutter options, then set up your phone for clearer telescope photos.
Setup, Gear and CareTelescope Red Dot Finder: Setup and Alignment
Choose and align a telescope red dot finder with clear setup steps, practical buying advice, night-use tips, and fixes for common aiming problems.
Setup, Gear and CareWhy Is My Telescope Image Upside Down?
Why is my telescope image upside down? Learn how telescope optics and diagonals change image orientation, when it matters, and how to correct it.