Every telescope of course comes with an eyepiece, and many come with several. While the telescope itself provides the brightening and sharpening of the image, it is in the eyepiece that magnification occurs. Eyepieces can also provide other image adjustments as well.
Barlow lenses are commonly used for increased magnification. It is fitted between the eyepiece and the telescope.
Wide-angle eyepieces offer a wider field of vision than that offered by a normal eyepiece. If you wish to view a star cluster or some other larger object, these eyepieces will assist you.
Diagonal prisms are used to adjust the alignment of the image. All telescopes invert images when focusing them for the astronomer. A 45� prism will invert the image again so that it is right side up. A 90� prism will also invert the image but will flip it from right to left as well.
Using Your Telescope
Once you have chosen and purchased your first telescope, you are ready to go out there and start exploring the stars! Astronomy has been a passion of mankind since earliest times, and the study of the celestial bodies is a fascinating hobby for anyone.
It is always best when stargazing to find a place away from lights and distractions, offering you the cleanest view of the stars. Find a field, or a park, or drive out into the country if you can. Find a clean, empty spot where you have room to set up your telescope and start exploring.
If you can’t go out to a special spot, even your own backyard can work. Set up your new telescope on its mount, and you are ready to begin. It is as simple as that.