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How to Site a Telescope to Look at the Stars

Finding the right site to set up your telescope requires a thorough knowledge of your environment. Siting the telescope entails finding the right area, then finding the exact spot to set up the telescope, then setting the tripod up correctly. A number of factors can make or break a night of viewing, including weather, light pollution and surrounding vegetation. Try two or three locations to find the best site.

Instructions

- 1
  Look at a map of your area and pick out a few locations to try. Search for areas with some combination of the following traits: a wide, level field; a raised level compared to the surrounding area; low light pollution; and few or no trees to block your vision.
- 2
  Drive to each location and inspect it on foot. Find the exact place where you want to set up your telescope. Without an adjustable tripod, you will need to find the most level ground possible. An adjustable tripod allows you to compensate for uneven terrain, but you still want the most level ground you can find.
- 3
  Schedule a night to use your telescope. When you get to your location, take the telescope off of its tripod and set the tripod up on its own. If you have an adjustable tripod, even out the top of the tripod by shortening the legs on whichever side is too high. The top of the tripod should be as even as possible. Re-attach the telescope to its tripod and enjoy.

Astronomy