|
|
Articles: Astronomy and Telescopes for Kids
Astronomy As A HobbyBy Yvonne Volante
Beginners in amateur astronomy are faced with a number of different challenges. One of the most daunting is the choice of a telescope. There are countless to choose from and too often there is minimum information on selecting the best one to buy for your specific needs and wants. Clearly, numerous newcomers to the hobby of amateur astronomy are often bewildered by the numerous types of telescopes available on the market.
Astronomy is a fun hobby in which numerous enthusiasts just enjoy looking up at the sky. But if you are more serious than that, then you will need to pick out a telescope. Books and magazines about amateur astronomy are written which can be a good root of information. Some of the additional popular magazines are Astronomy Magazine, Astronomy Now, and Popular Astronomy. You will find clearly written, authoritative, and scientifically sound articles that will cover both science and hobby activities in amateur astronomy. But you will need a reliable astronomy telescope to enjoy the fascinating hobby of star gazing. The professionally made telescope had become a big part of the hobby. Interestingly, some people even focus on amateur telescope making as their primary interest within the hobby of amateur astronomy.
For more information on telescopes, visit www.yesastronomy.com
In addition to books and magazines, you will be able to get acceptable advice at a local retailer that sells telescopes. Beware, however, that the thoughts you get at a retailer will be biased towards the products and brands that they carry. Another interesting thought is the astronomy club in your local space. Membership is usually open to all those interested in pursuing astronomy as a hobby. They are the best opportunity for people new to the hobby of Amateur Astronomy to ask questions.
Numerous regional star parties are now held by the local clubs and are an essential part of the hobby of amateur astronomy. And for a fledgling beginner to this fascinating hobby of amateur astronomy, there are countless beautiful objects to "discover" for the first time. And, since the hobby of amateur astronomy is one of sharing views with friends and strangers, you are sure to meet numerous new friends who will share your passion and curiosity.
Fortunately the organizations that have formed around amateur astronomy are truly outstanding and helpful. Because of this, the lines between professional and amateur astronomy are slowing blurring. You'll be surprised how much useful data there is among the members of your local club. Since viewing of stars and other heavenly bodies is adversely affected by light pollution, clubs will also know the best places from which to enjoy your hobby.
For many "astronomers," the mysteries of the heavens is what draws them to this hobby. Many enthusiasts acclaim that the hobby of amateur astronomy adds a sense of order as well as one of anticipation to life. Is this overly dramatic? Perhaps, but if you have any curiosity at all in the fascinating hobby of astronomy, join an astronomy club, get some magazines and books, and talk to some retailers about how best to approach this bang-up activity. You'll be glad you did.
About the Author: Yvonne Volante, the author, is a big fan of star-gazing and writes for yesastronomy.com, which is the premier astronomy resource on the internet. You can see all of the articles over at http://www.yesastronomy.com
Source: www.isnare.com
Your Young Astronomer Will Love A Kids TelescopeBy Bill Wilson
If your youngster is showing interest in stargazing and astronomy, a kids telescope can get them started with their new hobby without a large investment. Realize that a kids telescope is not a toy, but a fully functioning beginner telescope without all the advanced features.
Giving your youngster a kids telescope will let them know that you support their interest in astronomy and see it as a worthwhile endeavor. A real telescope, even without all the features, can give your child or grandchild a head start in learning about the universe and star systems.
Investing in a Kids Telescope
While you can purchase a child telescope for under $25, these are really more of a toy than a functioning astronomy telescope. A real basic beginner telescope can be purchased for around $100 and can provide the young astronomer with a gateway to the heavens. If you wish to invest a little more, a good starter telescope with some of the more advanced features, will cost anywhere from $200 to $300. This will provide your youngster with a quality piece of stargazing equipment.
As the child's interest grows, an investment in a more sophisticated telescope model might be appropriate. For instance, many young astronomers enjoy having the capability to photograph certain star formations or passing comets.
Tips for Buying the Right Child Telescope
Many astronomers and educators recommend a telescope with a longer focal length and separate viewer. This allows the child to find objects much easier and reduces the frustration that can result for the novice astronomer.
There are many cheaper models that offer a focal length of only 30mm or 50mm and will provide a more generalized view of the night sky. However, if you want a telescope that will provide a more detailed picture of the planets, moon and constellations, a 70mm or higher focal length is strongly recommended.
Kids telescopes are available from a number of top-rate optics companies like Meade, Celestron, Bushnell, Orion and many others. Even the Discovery Channel offers an affordable 70mm lens kids telescope with easy set-up and easy-to-use features.
Meade provides some of the best telescopes on the market today and caters to the amateur astronomer ? from beginner to expert levels. For example, a 1000mm focal length telescope with photographic capabilities can be purchased for about $150. This is an excellent choice for the new astronomer because it provides a very good view of the heavens and shows details of the planets and moon that are generally not found with a telescope in this price range. An added bonus is that a 35mm camera can be attached to this telescope that allows your child to preserve those special night sky views on film.
How to Use a Kids Telescope
Reading the instructions for your child's new telescope can't be stressed enough. Even the basic kids' telescopes can be confusing to use the first few times. It is advisable for the parent to read through the instruction manual and help the child astronomer learn the basics of the telescope's operating features.
A great way to enhance your child's interest in astronomy is to view the night skies together. There is no better way to bond with your child than by enjoying the same hobbies and actively pursuing them together.
A kids telescope can open up a whole new exciting world to your youngster. It can broaden their understanding of the universe and allow them to be a part of the cosmos beyond just this planet. Why not invest in your child by getting them a kids telescope for fun, education, and a true bonding experience.
About the Author: Learn more about a kids telescope by visiting www.a1-telescopes.com and find more tips on buying a beginner telescope for your young astronomer.
Source: www.isnare.com
*
Notice -click
hobbyscience is not responsible for links to third party sites and accepts no responsibility
for their content. No connection or association between hobbyscience
and the linked sites or their owners should be presumed.
|
|
