hey everyone im new to this forum and astronomy. Im not sure if im posting in the right category but i just bought a new telescope. A meade ds 2130. its my first scope. i just have some questions about it. what should i be able to see nicely on a clear, non light polluted night? is it hard to get used to focusing? because im finding it difficult.. oh yeah and i definately know i need a new upgraded mount! haha. well if some people could offer me some beginner advice id love it!

This should be posted in the observing and equipment section.

Use your lowest power eyepiece, it's the one with the largest number on it.

Visit a local astronomy club, and ask for help. You can find lists of astronomy clubs on the Sky & Telescope web site, as well as the Astronomical League (for the US).


You can find more by browsing or reading the Equipment section:

http://www.bautforum.com/astronomica...t-accessories/

There are lots of Q&A from beginners there.

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Is it the 130mm Meade DS-2130ATS-LNT?

If so, the manual, available online, provides some terrific guidance. Essentially, it encourages you to use Autostar, which, when updated via Meade's website, will bring you in touch with recently launched satellites, including the Space Shuttle.

Pages 41 and 42 talk about basic astronomy, viewing the planets, and viewing deep-sky objects.

Sounds like you have a very nice telescope indeed! Here's wishing you many hours of enjoyment.

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yes it is the meade ds2130-LNT , 5 inch aperature i think thats 130mm right? haha

What should i be able to see nicely on a clear, non light polluted night?

Short answer: More than you could give adequate study to in a lifetime!

Longer answer: The Moon, all the planets (now that Pluto has been demoted), several moons of Jupiter and Saturn, all of the Messier objects and a good chunk of the NGC catalog. That should get you started. It will probably also give you a bad case of aperture fever!

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