Adapting Your Eyes for the Telescope
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Adapting Your Eyes for the Telescope
Before you even use your telescope, you'll have to make sure your eyes adjust properly so you can see through the eyepiece. Adapting your eyes for the telescope can be easier by following these guidelines:
1. In the dark, your eyes release the chemical rhodopsin, also known as visual purple, which helps your eyes see better at night. Bright ultraviolet lights stop the release of visual purple. Because it can take up to half an hour for your eyes to adjust, avoid all fluorescent lights, computer screens, and camping lights, just prior to using your telescope.
2. A red light has the least amount of effect on your eyesight prior to telescope use. Use a red LED light or similar accessory to make adapting your eyes effortless. Tungsten lighting also has a lesser effect and can be used as well.
3. If you must use the computer to plan your stargazing itinerary, switch the screen to a night vision mode to display everything in red, or reduce your screen brightness.
| Guru Spotlight |
| Patricia Walters-Fischer |
