Planetary Shootout: Jupiter with Refractor, Maksutov, Newtonian, SCT

March 18, 2015 // by ecuador

Update 2016/04/27: As I get some questions, comments and even criticisms about a particular aspect of this article, I thought it was time to do an update to try and clarify some things, and also add images from my newest OTAs. So, some people tell me that images are not a good indication of the […]

The easy solar filter: Baader Astrosolar Film on aperture mask cover.

March 15, 2015 // by ecuador

One of the best and least expensive solutions for observing the sun with a telescope is to use the Baader Astrosolar Safety Film. There are many places that will sell you a pre-mounted filter for your telescope, or you can make it yourself and save money. For example, by gluing strips of cardboard around the […]

Terrestrial Viewing with a Telescope: Comparison test

March 5, 2015 // by ecuador

I often read forum posts of people asking whether they can use a telescope for terrestrial viewing instead of a spotting-scope and also about a recommendation for such a telescope. The usual answer is “yes you can use most telescopes – with the addition of an image erecting diagonal” and also “go with a Maksutov […]

Polar Scope Align 1.0 for iPhone and iPad released.

March 3, 2015 // by ecuador

Originally made for myself to compensate my ZEQ25’s polar scope reticle centering error, I made it available through the Apple app store in a free ad-supported version and a paid Pro version with a few extra features (such as manually setting the date, time, location if you don’t want to use the current time/gps location […]