Congratulations on receiving your new telescope! The excitement of “first light” is a big deal in the astronomy community. However, don’t expect to capture stunning images like those from the James Webb Space Telescope right away.
To start, familiarize yourself with your new telescope by practicing insertion and focusing inside before going out into the night. If you have a motorized telescope, review the manual and practice using it indoors. When observing outside, begin with lower magnification settings (lower numbered sizes) and gradually increase them as needed.
The first look through your telescope won’t resemble the stunning images from the James Webb Space Telescope. The light reaching your eye is dim, and most of what you see will be in black and white. Brighter objects like the moon are visible but may appear grayish due to this limitation.
When planning your observing sessions, consider knowing the cardinal directions and when the sky will be sufficiently dark. Stars and planets become visible by nautical twilight, about an hour after sunset. The most ideal time for viewing is during astronomical twilight, around 90 minutes after sunset.
Popular targets for beginners include Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars. Jupiter’s largest moons can be seen with even a small telescope, while Saturn’s rings require moderate to large telescopes. Mars offers clearer views as the night progresses, allowing you to see its polar ice caps.
Remember to start with lower magnification settings and gradually increase them as needed. Practice using your telescope regularly to develop your skills. For additional guidance, consider using the Stellarium virtual planetarium software or consulting online tools provided by Sky and Telescope Magazine.
Before Dawn:
Mercury is visible in the morning sky around 6 am, providing an optimal viewing opportunity due to its greatest elongation west. Use a moderate-sized telescope to observe this often-hidden planet.
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Source: https://www.wral.com/story/so-you-got-a-telescope-for-christmas-now-what/21783062