How to Use a Telescope to See the Moon for a Science Fair Project
- 1). Wait until the moon is in phase before viewing it with a telescope. A full moon may offer the largest view but the reflection of the sun's light across the entire surface can strain the eye. The shadow draped across a phased moon also throws any nearby surface features into sharp contrast.
- 2). Position your telescope on a flat sturdy surface with a clear line of sight of the moon. While porches may be one of the most comfortable viewing locations, overhanging eaves and tree branches will force you to relocate. Hilltops are excellent viewing positions.
- 3). Adjust the length of the telescope legs to that you are able to look through the eyepiece in a comfortable seated position.
- 4). Start by manually aiming the telescope in the direction of the moon. Position your head directly behind the scope and aim the device in such a way that the moon is blocked from view. This step will cut down how much time you spend trying to locate the moon through the eyepiece.
- 5). Use the small magnification lens to find the moon. Most telescopes comes with a smaller scope attached to the side of the larger scope that contains cross hairs. Position the moon in the center of the smallest lens (or in the center of the cross hairs, if applicable) and tighten the screws at the pivoting locations to prevent any jostling.
- 6). Look through the eyepiece for any sign of the moon. If you see a glow on the edge of your vision, slowly move the scope in that direction until you find the moon.
- 7). Tighten all adjustment screws once the moon is in the center of the viewing area.
- 8). Adjust the focus knob until the moon's image is as crisp as possible.
- 9). Use your calibrated telescope in your science project. For instance, study the phases of the moon and research why they take place, observe a lunar eclipse and explain the phenomenon to your class or determine the connection between the phases of the moon and tide cycles in large bodies of water.
- 10
Move the telescope, if necessary, during long periods of study for your science project. The moon will appear higher in the sky during certain times of the year and lower in others. - 11
Make daily observations of the moon for your experiments. While the moon is quite predictable, unexpected phenomena can occur, such as small asteroids impacting the lunar surface or strange moon colors due to local atmospheric conditions. Record anything out of the ordinary for your project.
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