Tag: telescope maintenance
Safe Compressed Air Use: How to Clean Telescope Coatings Without Damage
Learn how to safely use compressed air on telescope coatings. Discover why canned air can be dangerous and find the best tools to keep your optics dust-free.
How to Test Eyepieces: A Guide to Star and Planetary Tests
Learn how to verify the optical quality of your telescope eyepieces using professional star and planetary testing procedures. Identify flaws, understand diffraction patterns, and maintain optimal viewing performance.
Collimation Check Without Tools: Visual Inspection Methods for Amateurs
Learn how to check telescope alignment using only your eyes and standard gear. Master visual techniques like the star test and shadow methods.
Spider Vane and Secondary Care: Preventing Rust and Alignment Shift in Telescopes
Learn how to prevent rust and alignment shifts in telescope spider vanes and secondary mirrors. Simple maintenance steps can save your views and extend your scope’s life - especially in humid climates like Portland’s.
Long-Term Telescope Storage: How to Protect Your Telescope During Off-Season
Learn how to properly store your telescope during the off-season to prevent moisture damage, fungus, and mechanical wear. Simple steps like using silica gel, removing batteries, and storing in a sealed container can extend your scope's life for decades.