Steve Richards

Recent articles by Steve Richards

Celestron Advanced VX 700 Maksutov-Cassegrain telescope review

Astronomy FAQs I'm buying a secondhand telescope. What do I need to know?

Diffraction spikes seen from stars in globular cluster NGC 6397. Credit: NASA, ESA, and H. Richer (University of British Columbia)

Astronomy FAQs What are diffraction spikes?

Tele Vue 2x Barlow lens

Astronomy FAQs What is eyepiece projection and how do I do it?

Canon EOS 1000D DSLR camera body

Astronomy FAQs Why do I need to cool my camera?

Sky-Watcher HEQ5 Pro SynScan mount

Astronomy FAQs How can I convert my Schmidt-Cassegrain into a Go-To system?

A sturdy mount ad tripod is vital for astronomy and astrophotography

Astronomy FAQs Why do I need a sturdy mount and tripod for astronomy?

Maxim dl

Astronomy FAQs How do you set up MaxIm DL software for autofocusing?

Celestron NexStar 8SE Schmidt Cassegrain review

Astronomy FAQs What sort of telescope is best for observing the planets?

finderscope

Astronomy FAQs What is a guidescope?

Vixen Mobile Porta Altazimuth Mount. Credit: Opticron

Astronomy FAQs My telescope mount's azimuth base is slipping. How can I fix it?

How to collimate your telescope

Astronomy FAQs What is telescope collimation?

Barlow lenses are commonly used in conjunction with an eyepiece to increase magnification. Credit: The Secret Studio

Astronomy FAQs What is a Barlow lens?

A portable tripod dolly is a handy way of moving heavy astronomy setups.

Astronomy FAQs How can I easily move my heavy telescope?

The Rosette Nebula in hydrogen-alpha, before dark frame calibration (left) and with reduced thermal noise after it has been applied (right). Credit: Steve Richards

Astronomy FAQs What is a dark frame in astrophotography?

Good preparation will help you get the most out the darker autumn and winter nights. Credit: Astrobobo/iStock/GettyImages

Astronomy FAQs How can I power my astronomy setup when away from home?