All About Telescopes and Binoculars

To quote the patron saint of astronomers, Johnny Nash, "I can see clearly now"--thanks to a 3X Barlow lens that magnifies the image in my Meade ETX-60 telescope three times (or, to use the technical Elizabethan term, "thrice"). In this solid introduction, hosted by Bob Bonadurer, director of the Minneapolis Planetarium, would-be amateur astronomers will discover that a good pair of binoculars offers enough magnification power for moon, planet, and even nebula gazing; learn about the differences between reflecting, refracting, and catadioptric telescopes; and get a close-up look at a wide variety of accessories (eyepieces, lenses, filters, tripods, etc.) used to enhance one's viewing of objects in the night sky. Offering a nice mix of general information and specific tips, this reasonably comprehensive introduction is recommended. Aud: J, H, C, P. (R. Pitman)