Astronomy

We try not to play favorites here at Optical Mechanics, but we have to admit: astronomy is definitely nearest and dearest to our hearts! We explore the solar system, viewing techniques, galaxies, space travel, and much, much more.

What is a Dobsonian Telescope and How Does it Work? Find Out!

The Dobsonian telescope has gone through a wide variety of iterations and innovations since it was first invented at the dawn of the Space Age, as well as a great deal of criticism.  However, today Dobsonians dominate observing fields, are common even at astronomical observatories, and are widely considered the best beginner telescopes, if not […]

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Orion Constellation – The Ultimate Guide to a Classic Beauty

Lying on the celestial equator, the constellation of Orion is one of the most recognizable and well-known constellations in the night sky. It is visible in both hemispheres from November to March, hitting the meridian at sunset in January. The areas in and around Orion are home to one of the most glorious parts of

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How to Focus a Telescope (Visually and Photographically)

Focusing a telescope may sound intimidating, but it’s actually a remarkably easy process. In this article, we will explain what how to focus a telescope actually means, how focusers work, and why it’s important. Most telescopes have an external focusing device that physically shifts the eyepiece or camera back and forth along the optical axis

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