Fuzzy Images

[Mike - Colorado]

Hello All,

I have a Clestron Omni XLT 150. Looking at Jupiter, Mars and Saturn is am experimenting with diffrent lenes. I have used the Barlow X2 with diffrent lens configurations for viewing from the 32mm to the 6mm. I know that the Barlow will effectivly take the 32 to 16 etc. My problem is that nothing comes in clear. Really fuzzy.  I can see colors from the planets, but with no clarity......What am I doing wrong? Thanks!

[Bart]

The 150XLT was my first scope and I loved it. I got great views of Jupiter and Saturn especially. What eyepiece are you using to view the planets? You might be using a little too much magnification. I'd say about x170 to x200 is definitely your max here.

Either that or your Collimation is out.

Barry

[Owmuchonomy]

It's highly likely your view is affected seriously by the seeing conditions. Those targets are low in the sky right now before daylight and thus subject to a lot of atmospheric interference. It may not be a function of your kit at all but you would be wise to check collimation as suggested.

[happy-kat]

On the same observing night if you do not use the barlow is everything clear?

[Mike - Colorado]

I have not done commulation on my scope. (Another thing to learn).  Yes these planets are low in the sky and now that you mention that, we more than likly have smoke from the California fires distorting things a bit.

I have not been out in the evenings much yet to play with the scope. Mostly early mornings.

The lenses that I have used are from 32mm down to 6mm with varialtions inbetween with and without the barlow lens.

Thanks for the Help!!!!

[Bart]

Owmuchonomy is right, thats probably it alright, didn't think of where they are in the sky these days.

[Mike - Colorado]

What would be the best method or tools to use for proper commulation? I want eveything to be in line. Thanks!

[Mike - Colorado]

Collimation.....

[Bart]

http://www.astro-baby.com/collimation/astro%20babys%20collimation%20guide.htm

Try this guide, it's generally thought to be an excellent guide to Collimation. If you plan on using reflectors, Collimation will be your friend. Saying that, on the 150 XLT, you won't have to do it often as it's very stable

Barry

[michael8554]

Wasn't sure what a 150XLT was, so I Googled:

You'll need Chuck Norris to collimate that baby !

Michael   :->

[Bart]

http://www.highpointscientific.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/745x/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/c/e/celestron_omni_xlt_150_angle_view_2.jpg

It is the reflector we're talking about, right?

Barry

[happy-kat]

The other thing I can think of does your telescope come with a 2" to 1.25" focuser adaptor?

If it does then make sure the 2" one is not in the focuser at the same time as the 1.25" adaptor.

[Mike - Colorado]

The 1.25" is  the only adapter Happy-Kat. And yes the scope is the Celestron Omni XLT150 Barry.   Michael8554 - It seems like it is as heavy as the XLT150....Thanks All!