Binoculars are not only a convenient solution for observing ground objects, but at a sufficiently high resolution is an effective tool for use in astronomical purposes. In this article, we will talk about astronomical binoculars, especially their selection and operation.
Benefits
The binoculars for
astronomical observations are distinguished by the following advantages:
- The possibility of using both eyes to observe celestial bodies. While the telescope allows you to view objects through a single lens.
- Volumetric image acquisition due to specific stereo effect.
- A wide field of view makes astronomical binoculars an ideal tool for viewing bright comets, stellar fields, asteroids, and more.
- Effective if necessary, the formation of a clear overall plan of constellations.
- Astronomical binoculars give a direct image. Telescopes also create a mirror, inverted image.
Multiplicity
There are several varieties of astronomical binoculars that are widely used by astronomy enthusiasts. The most common budget option is a model with a magnification of 8x40. Such astronomical binoculars have the widest possible viewing angle. Its operation makes it easier to find famous objects in the sky. Small models are lighter than their more massive counterparts. Therefore, convenient when operating as a manual observational means.
Binoculars with a magnification of 7x50 have all the advantages of wide-angle lenses. However, the formation of a clear picture here depends on the lighting of the surrounding space. Therefore, this option is not very effective when used at dusk, in bright urban lighting. At the same time, the high multiplicity makes them convenient for viewing gaseous nebulae, star clusters.
Devices with a magnification of 10x50 are the largest astronomical binoculars in the category of amateur devices. They differ in a narrow field of view, which makes it possible to examine in detail the elements of celestial bodies close to the Earth, in particular the Moon. However, the impressive dimensions do not allow to stably hold such devices in hands. Therefore, in order to conveniently use astronomical binoculars with high magnification, it is recommended to purchase a special tripod.
Collimation
This concept is an important parameter when choosing any binoculars. The collimation of the device indicates that its mechanical and optical parts are aligned with each other. To evaluate the quality of parameter settings, just look into both eyepieces of the binoculars. In this case, there should be a quick focus on the objects that are located both at short and long distances. Observation in poorly collimated binoculars will necessarily lead to rapid eye strain.
Features of various models
Astronomical binoculars can have a ruby-tinted lens coating. However, such attractive shells somewhat degrade the quality of the resulting image. Another thing is products with orange filters. How good are such astronomical binoculars? User reviews indicate an improvement in the picture when observing objects through products whose lenses have this kind of coating.
In expensive astronomical binoculars, a goniometric scale is provided. With its help, you can measure the vertical and horizontal distances between individual celestial bodies. However, the presence of the option does not mean that the scale will be clearly distinguishable in the dark. Therefore, before buying such binoculars, it is necessary to test it in practice, at least in twilight.
The lenses of some astronomical binoculars contain an electron beam coating. At one time, the technology was patented by the famous developer of optics - Fujifilm. Here, the surface of the lenses is processed in a special way, in which the latter transmit about 95% of the light. Thus, the observed objects are as bright as possible. In this case, a high-definition picture is formed.
Astronomical binoculars may contain low dispersion optics. The use of technology in the development of the device is indicated by the symbols ED. The installation of such optics makes it possible to avoid the occurrence of color distortions that form on the lens as a result of the dispersion of light rays reflected from individual bodies. The presence of fine lenses is a sign of a high-quality product.
Manufacturers
Among the models of astronomical binoculars of domestic production, it is worth noting the products of the Kazan Optical and Mechanical Enterprise. It mainly produces military binoculars that contain the special marking "BS". Such devices have a goniometer grid. They are installed optics of excellent quality, which makes them an excellent budget solution for observing celestial bodies.
For astronomical purposes, domestic Yukon binoculars from the Pro series can also be used. Products in this category have orange filters and a rangefinder grid. It contains hinged covers that act as a kind of screen to suppress glare that comes from side light sources.
The most expensive are imported astronomical binoculars of such well-known brands as: Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Fujifilm. Even the cheapest product from one of these manufacturers makes it possible to consider much more celestial bodies in detail than ordinary binoculars.
Finally
Summing up, I would like to give some advice to users who intend to purchase astronomical binoculars. First of all, you should not buy a device in a supermarket. As a rule, such devices have only an attractive shell. However, in practice they are more like a meaningless children's toy than a serious system for observing distant objects.
When choosing astronomical binoculars, it is recommended to avoid products from unknown manufacturers, in particular Chinese brands. Before buying, you should once again consult with a knowledgeable person, view reviews of models of interest prepared by experienced users.