Collimation on smaller Newtonian Reflector

[Simple-Human]

Hi, Just wondering whether collimation is necessary on a smaller Telescope like mine (https://www.astroshop.eu/telescopes/skywatcher-telescope-n-76-700-astrolux-az-1/p,5010#tab_bar_1_select)? If so, how often do you need to do it, and how do you know when it needs doing? Any other tips on how to do it are welcome. 

[Louis D]

Assuming your secondary is aligned properly (usually a set it once and forget it situation), I just do a quick check each night of the primary with a Rigel Aline that stays in the focuser like a plug during storage.

[joe aguiar]

any reflector sct type will need it in time, it just depends on if it gets off or not.

i found if you have the scope setup lets say in living room and just take it outside it can last many months even a year or longer BUT if u take it apart put it in car trunk every weekend it may need it monthy

joejaguar

[NGC 1502]

As above, but I’d like to add...

You can do a quick and adequate check.......just view a brightish star at medium to high power.  Centre it within the field of view.   Defocus, you’ll see a set of diffraction rings with a large black dot, that’s the shadow of the secondary mirror.  If that shadow is central within the diffraction rings, not skewed to one side, you’re fine.

With patience a lot can be seen with a 76mm scope. It would take a long while to exhaust the possibilities.

Ed.