For an introduction to astronomy, a pair of binoculars is one of the essentials (if not the most important accessory). Beginner or confirmed, the astronomer must therefore have it at hand.
Guarantee of comfort, clear and stereoscopic vision, simple use, easy transport and quick and easy maintenance, there are only advantages to be drawn from this instrument.
But you still need to know its specificities in order to choose your binoculars. As with telescopes, what are the most popular astronomy accessories because telescopes are available in several formats and several models. Before making a selection of binoculars in this guide, it will be necessary to find out beforehand about the different points that make an astronomical binocular what it is.
Summary of Binoculars for Astronomy
Sommaire
The characteristics of astronomical binoculars
If you know a little about buying telescopes, you already know the basic tips to know about binoculars. In fact, the main characteristics of the two accessories are always indicated by means of two digits. You notice, for example, the number 10 x 70 on your binoculars, but what do they correspond to? The first is magnification, the second is diameter. These are, therefore, the two main characteristics, but not the only ones.
Magnification
Magnification Les jumelles astronomiques avec l’indication 10 x 70 sont des jumelles dotées d’un grossissement de 10 fois. Plus le chiffre est élevé, plus l’objet à observer est rapproché. Mais cela signifie également que moins l’image sera stable et par conséquent, plus le champ de vision sera réduit.
The diameter
Dans le rapport 10 x 70, 70 correspond au diamètre de l’objectif des jumelles. La règle est simple : plus le diamètre est grand, plus l’appareil récolte de la lumière. Ce qui signifie que l’utilisateur pourra profiter d’images plus nettes. Le revers de la médaille : les jumelles avec un grand diamètre sont des jumelles plus lourdes, donc plus encombrantes.
The exit pupil
The pupil of the binocular is similar to the pupil of your eyes. The exit pupil corresponds to the diameter of the circle of light that reaches your eyes at the time of observation. Generally, this number is not indicated on your binoculars. But you can calculate it easily. In the example of the 10 x 70 binocular, the exit pupil equals 70/ 10 = 7 (diameter divided by the magnification). This number must be adequate to the diameter of the dilation of the pupil: between 5 and 6 for adults and 7 for children.
What can you see with binoculars?
Now that you know the main features of binoculars, do you know what you can observe with them?
- Galaxies & constellations
- The stars
- The celestial vault
- The phases of Venus
- The Moon
Basically, the budding or confirmed astronomer will therefore be able to make planetary observations: binoculars with a magnification capacity will be the most suitable for this use. And for deep sky observations: binoculars with a deep diameter will be the most suitable for this purpose.
The advantages of an astro binocular
Not all astronomical accessories are created equal. But when you enter the field of astronomy, it is quite normal that you ask yourself this question: why a pair of binoculars and not a telescope? Here are in this guide all the advantages you could have by turning to the first astronomy equipment for space.
Easy to transport
This is certainly the point that greatly benefits telescope binoculars. Indeed, the binoculars can follow you everywhere and at any time. Thus, the practice of astronomy is not limited to one place. It goes without saying that storing your pair will also be simpler and more practical.
Easy to use
Unlike using telescopes, using binoculars does not require great skill. And for good reason, the user will, for example, not have to make any adjustments beforehand. Do you want to observe the moonor the planets? Your pair of binoculars is immediately ready.
Wider observation of the sky
Binoculars are great allies for observing and magnifying very large objects (like objects you find in the deep sky, for example). It is also the ideal companion for efficient and clear terrestrial observations. Which means you could use it for other purposes.
Prices and choice of binoculars for astronomy
Now that you have understood what the astronomical binoculars were used for and especially what are the main characteristics of these products, it will be easier for you to buy a pair according to your need. But if you don’t want to waste your time prospecting every interesting model on the market with the price, here is our selection of binoculars:
Binoculars Omegon NightStar 15×70
The range of Omegon NightStar binoculars includes the famous 15 x 70. With a magnification of 15 and an exit pupil of 4.7 mm, this pair of binoculars is very bright and allows various observations: the celestial vault, the animals, the sky, the twilight, etc.
To ensure comfortable use, the eyecups of this model are made of rubber. With a 70mm opening you will enjoy much more light and opening.
Binoculars Omegon NightStar 20×80
Do you want to observe nature and the sky effectively? The Omegon NightStar 20 x 80 binoculars are the big sisters of the 15 x 70. Very light, they will follow you everywhere and at any time. It can also allow you to start observing the stars in the sky.
With built-in adapter for photo tripods, you no longer have to invest in specialized adapters for this effect.
With a 20 times magnification, the results are particularly clear and precise on this product. It’s also impossible not to appreciate that large 80mm aperture and broadband multi-layer treatment.
Binoculars Omegon PorroStar 10x50W
Are you looking for versatile astronomy binoculars? These classic binoculars remain a sizeable choice. Categorized as universal binoculars, they will adapt to all observation situations: sky, nature, etc.
The light output is ensured by the 50 mm aperture. With an eye relief of 12.7 mm, the viewing position is very comfortable.
Binoculars Omegon BlackStar 12×42
At any time, the Blackstar 12 x 42 will always be ready to satisfy you! Very compact, in addition to being efficient, it is above all the ideal ally for nature observation. The observation position, the simple and effective grip, the unscrewable eyecups, the performance, the power, the reproduction of the image: so many characteristics that offer a delectable user experience.
Use a good tripod
As mentioned for some of these previous products, it may be recommended to equip yourself with a tripod to accompany your pair of binoculars.
Indeed, some models will be a little heavy to carry at arm’s length if you want to observe a fixed point in the sky for several minutes.
Camera tripod models usually work just fine. Telescope Astronomie recommends the following products in particular:
