Friday, May 29th, 2009 at
9:54 pm
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Benjamin Hauck asked:
Binoculars are an excellent tool to help bring the action up close and personal, whether observing birds in a nature preserve, football players in a stadium, or your favorite rock star at a concert. Yet different uses require different types of binoculars. With hundreds of different models to choose from, it can be difficult to figure out the best pair to buy. Yet with the understanding of a few basic concepts, choosing a pair of binoculars can be made much easier. Let’s take a look at some of the most important concepts when choosing a pair of binoculars.
Wednesday, May 20th, 2009 at
1:43 am
Jonathan Asked:
My girlfriend is turning 16, and she likes astronomy. Any astronomy gift ideas? The most i would want to spend is about $150.
Reply:
Do NOT buy her a star! This is a scam, and will insult her!
Buying somebody else a telescope is a bit chancy, because a telescope is a very personal decision, and, if you don’t know what you’re doing, may be a big disappointment. I’d say the best astronomy gift would be a good book or an astronomy computer program. Any book by Terence Dickinson is a safe bet, but especially NightWatch or Backyard Astronomer’s Guide, both published by Firefly. A membership in an astronomy club or a subscription to an astronomy magazine are also great ideas. A astronomy gift certificate to an and telescope store would also be good.
Wednesday, May 20th, 2009 at
1:30 am
Brianna Asked:
How are top rated binoculars?
Reply:
Power and lens sizes concerned, it is as stated above. However, not all 10×50 perform equally. With optics, you do get what you pay for, well almost. I’ve found that with top rated binoculars the best bang for your buck is in the $300 range. Assume that 100% performance lies with the big 3, Swarovski, Leica, and Zeiss. These three binos will cost you around $2000. Then let’s set 0% performance at a $20 pair roof bino you can buy at big 5. With this scale the $300 model will give you about a good solid 95%.
