Frequently Asked Questions

1.1. Can I, a non-member, show up at a CFAS viewing at {pick a viewing site.}?

We would love to have you come to a viewing. Unfortunately the answer to this question comes down to liability. For any CFAS sponsored event, such as a viewing event at Harmony or the SCC Star Range, only CFAS members and their guests are permitted for insurance reasons. So your best course of action is either to join CFAS or find someone who is a member and befriend them.

The Orlando Science Center offers viewings on Friday and Saturday evenings.

1.2. I'm thinking of buying a new telescope and I'd like your advise on which one to get.

Common wisdom in this hobby is to start with decent 10x50mm binoculars and learn the night sky. There are a lot of objects that offer good, if not better views through binoculars. If you find after a while that you're enjoying yourself but wanting more, then start researching which telescope to buy or ask for as a gift.

Once you've made a commitment to yourself that you want a telescope, write down what you want to do with it. Are you content with visual observing or do you want to do astrophotography? Are you happy with the Messier objects or do you long to see details of far-away galaxies? Only with the answers to these questions and many others can you find the telescope for right now.

Also know there's a phenomenon in this hobby called "aperture envy." Simply stated, once you know what you can see with your current telescope, you'll want a bigger one.

An astronomy club such as CFAS can help you through these decisions and guide you to a suitable instrument without guessing and spending money needlessly.

1.3. I just purchased/received a new telescope and I don't know how to make it work. Can you help?

Congratulations and welcome to the hobby! We encourage you to join a local astronomy club. You'll enjoy your new instrument more with the help of more experienced observers.

Should you choose to join CFAS, we have a number of individuals who are happy to help you. You can bring your 'scope to one of the monthly meetings, any of the viewings or during our annual star party Astrofest. You can also contact one of the board members to make arrangements with someone in your area for a personal visit.

1.4. I have a frequently asked question that I'd like added here. How do I do that?

Please send it to me, preferably with an answer.