Wednesday, March 28, 2007

The tiniest owlet in the world through binoculars

A very rare species of a tiny owl had been seen in the wild for the first time in Lima, Peru. This kind of owl is one of the world's smallest owlets (not bigger than a fist) was discovered in 1976. With the help of observation binoculars the owl was spotted early in February by the researchers in a private conservation area in Peru's jungle. In the American Bird Conservancy report it was said that investigators encountered the owlet three times during daylight hours and even recorded its frequently calls at night. The owl was named "Xenoglaux", meaning "strange owl", due to the long wispy feathers around its reddish-orange eyes. Its population is estimated to be less than 1,000 birds and possibly as few as 250 birds, so birdwatchers consider it a big thrill to be able to spot this tiniest owlet in their binoculars.
 
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Tuesday, March 27, 2007

See the pulsar radio waves in your binoculars

Yesterday I found out that March 25th was the very day when the Saturn's largest satellite - Titan - was discovered. It happened on March 25th 1655, and the person who opened for us this wonderful planet was Christian Huygens. To say more about him, he also discovered Saturn's ring system that same year.
To tell you more interesting facts about March 25th, well, on this day in 1951, 21 cm wavelength radiation from atomic hydrogen in the Milky Way was first detected. If you would like to look as pulsar radio waves, then you need to point your observation binoculars east of bright Procyon. The two first bright stars seen in your binoculars will belong to the constellation of Hydrus, knowing this will make it easier for you to find pulsar.
Enjoy the skies and stay healthy and happy!
 
Read Comments [0] | 7:39 PM | Write comment

Monday, March 26, 2007

A new comet is discovered with the help of Digital camera

An astronomer from New Zealand has played a significant part in the latest discovery of a comet. This green-colored comet was first spotted by a Queensland man six days ago.
Astrophotographer Terry Lovejoy discovered his comet not by any telescopic devices, but by taking a series of shots using a Canon digital camera.
In the early morning of March 15th Mr. Lovejoy observed a fuzzy, greenish spot that had slightly shifted on some series of shots.
In fact, it is the first time anyone has discovered a comet using a digital camera. Officially this new spot is labeled as C2007 E2. The name of the comet is Lovejoy, to honor its discoverer.
Currently the celestial object is too faint to see, but telescopes and astronomical binoculars. But it is expected to brighten in April and most likely it will become visible to smaller binoculars and spotting scopes.
 
Read Comments [0] | 11:06 PM | Write comment

Summer triangle through binoculars

Look outside of you window, spring is already there, and the summertime is approaching with very big steps. Now you can easily go outside after dark, and look up over your head. Have you tried doing it? If no, now is your chance! Look into the dark gorgeous sky and with the help of your astronomical binoculars (or if you have good eyesight even without them) you'll see three brilliant bright stars making a huge triangle. These stars will be visible the most in July-August. These three stars: Vega, Deneb and Altair form a well known Summer Triangle. Vega is the brightest of three, and Deneb, on the contrary, appears to be the dimmest. This triangle connects the constellations Lyra, Aquila the Eagle and Cygnus the Swan. This summer triangle will lie high above, over the Milky Way.

So, don't waste your life, don't be a couch potato, take your binoculars, go out and enjoy the night sky, and all miracles you'll be able to find there!

Clear skies to you!
 
Read Comments [0] | 10:53 PM | Write comment

Thursday, March 22, 2007

Coma Berenices Constellation

Today I'll tell you about a very tiny constellation located between Leo and Bootes. Yes, comparing to other constellations it's very tiny, because it has only three stars in it, and only one of them has name. To be more correct, it's more an asterism than an actual constellation. And the name of this constellation is Coma Berenices. All three of the stars are relatively dim, less than fourth magnitude.
As usually, there is a very interesting story behind this constellation about the Queen Berenice, wife of Ptolemy III of Egypt. I'm sure it might be very interesting for you to read this story.
You can spend much time in the Coma constellation using your astronomical binoculars and telescope, because there is much to see. You can find Coma Berenices in the east early in the morning.
You need to look below Leo, try to find three dim stars that look like one corner of a box. Use your observation binoculars to find the cluster and a telescope to wander around finding the galaxies that are there and in the Virgo cluster.
Good luck in your search and enjoy the night sky!!!
 
Read Comments [0] | 1:23 AM | Write comment

The annual return of the buzzards through binoculars

In 1957, when most people looked in the sky with their astronomical binoculars, trying to spot the Russian satellite Sputnik, others at the same time looked to the sky for buzzards.
Now, 50 years later, many eyes are still watching the skies above the Hinckley Reservation of Cleveland Metro Parks as the turkey vultures flew back to town. There were about 4,500 people who attended the 50th Annual Buzzard Sunday, March 18th, at Buzzard Roost. Many observers were armed with observation binoculars, but those who weren't, could pick up a free pair of cheap, but effective binoculars inside the tent, near Buzzard Roost.

It's all told in a legend, 150 years ago, after the very big hunt in this area, the buzzards cleaned everything after the hunters left the woods. So, according to the legend and the facts, the birds have been returning on the same day, March 15th, ever since.

Since these birds play an important role in forest and field cleaning, they are fully protected by state and federal laws.
 
Read Comments [0] | 1:21 AM | Write comment

The first spacewalk and binoculars

Last night with the help of my astronomical binoculars I was looking at the night sky, at the moon, and all the stars I was able to distinguish. And suddenly something clicked in my head, I remembered that today is the exact day, when in 1965 was performed the first ever spacewalk. It was conducted by Alexei Leonov onboard the Soviet Voskhod spacecraft. This world known walk lasted only about 20 minutes, can you imagine that? On re-entering the spacecraft Alexei Leonov had some problems, because his space suit had slightly enlarged.
After all these thoughts I was proud, those first people were very brave men! I can't imagine doing all of that by myself. So, I think that we need to honor all the people who provided us with more information about space, sky, comets, stars, and much more. Thanks to many of them, and also to many of scientists who created and were working and are working now on developing a better sky equipment, observation binoculars, night vision binoculars, camera binoculars, and other.
Now we have this opportunity to observe the best piece of nature's art - sky. It's free and we need to be thankful and proud!
 
Read Comments [0] | 1:16 AM | Write comment

Friday, March 16, 2007

Night Vision Binoculars

I've been enjoying night vision binoculars since I was a kid. They are wonderful, because they allow you to see well in dark. I also remember playing treasure hunt with night vision binoculars, it was so much fun!

But Night vision binoculars are very important not only for gaming, they are widely used in such areas as: exploring caves, nighttime navigation, security and surveillance, wildlife observation, night time hunting, and much more.

Some of the Night vision binoculars can be used as digital cameras, because they have a built in flash. When choosing a Night vision binocular, you need first to decide your application, the same as when choosing a regular observation binoculars. Then you need to choose size, color, and details of the optics. Remember than smaller binoculars are more expensive, but they are as powerful, as the big ones.
 
Read Comments [0] | 2:03 PM | Write comment

New Nikon Sportstar EX Binoculars

Nikon has recently introduced a new 8x and 10x Sportstar EX binocular models to the optics market. These roof-prism binoculars feature a contemporary design that is both appealing and very practical.

Both models are very portable due to its lightweight, compact, twin-hinged, and foldable design. In addition, Sportstar EX models are water-and-fog-proof, and are available for use in the whole range of outdoor activities and weather conditions.

Try it yourself, and tell us what you think! Good luck!
 
Read Comments [0] | 1:57 PM | Write comment

The Largest Binocular Telescope in the world

Just recently I read an article about the largest Binocular Telescope in the world. After more than two decades of its construction and design, this Binocular finally became operational in January of this year. It's considered to be the marvel of modern engineering, and is situated atop Mount Graham, AZ, 10,500 feet above the Chihuahuan desert. The Largest $120 million Binocular Telescope is equipped with a pair of 27.6 foot mirrors, and image-correcting electronics. The resolution of this Binoculars is unmatched by any other optical telescope on Earth or in heavens, even including the Hubble Space Telescope.
 
Read Comments [0] | 1:55 PM | Write comment

Tuesday, March 13, 2007

Night Sky watch

If you enjoy observing the night sky, and in case it happens to be very dark, you need to have a pair of good astromonical binoculars, and then you can try looking for a few noticeable fuzzy patches on the sky. In the sky spot, between the moon and Jupiter, with your observation binoculars you'll be able to find the Lagoon nebula and M20. To be more specific, look for little smudges in the sky.
With binoculars you'll be also able to see a ‘butterfly cluster’ with open wings, the so called M6.

Take your time tonight, and enjoy the sky that's always there for you!
 
Read Comments [0] | 11:43 PM | Write comment

Monday, March 12, 2007

A closer world through Binoculars

If you want to see the world closer, and at the same time keep the distance - you need a pair of good binoculars.

I'm sure that every person can use binoculars for some use. The most popular of which is hunting, bird watching, football, and of course baseball.

With a good pair of astronomical binoculars, you'll be able to see the moon, and lots of other planets. But choosing and buying such optical wonder can be a little intimidating. You need to understand what to look for when buying binoculars first. Well, first of all, the binoculars you want to buy should be comfortable for you. You also need to know the application, the purpose you want to use these binoculars for, what the numbers mean, the weight of your binoculars, whether you wear glasses or not,..etc. I'll be very helpful for you to read how to buy binoculars guide that will definitely help you decide which binoculars to buy.

Good luck with your choice!
 
Read Comments [0] | 11:46 PM | Write comment

Sunday, March 11, 2007

Birding Binocular advice

If you own binoculars and love watching birds, it means that you might become an excellent birdwatcher.
If you don't know anything about birdwatching, birding binoculars, and you are not even sure if you want start this hobby, then you need to read an article 10 reasons to start birdwatching today! You'll be amazed, and most likely you'll start birdwatching right away.
For those of you who have been in birdwatching for quite a while, enjoy it, and have birding binoculars, here are some rules for scanning for birds with the help of binoculars:
The first rule for any birder is to scan with your binoculars even you think there are no birds to be seen. The second rule is, always remember to shift your birding binoculars from side to side while you look for bird with naked eye. The third rule is, don't look too far away, because many different unknown objects can easily frustrate you. The forth advice, try to scan along the tops of the trees, it'll help you find at least a few birds. Plus, it helps in finding distant flying birds. The fifth rule is to be always ready to spot birds EVERYWHERE, especially when you turn to look different directions. And the last advice, if you're already finished tracking birds, take a good look at where it came from, because there might be a huge chance of finding even more there.
Good luck in you birding!!!
 
Read Comments [0] | 7:49 PM | Write comment

Pentax DCF HRc series roof-prism binoculars

Pentax is very pleased to announce the addition of several new sport optics binoculars. The Pentax DCF ED line of premium binoculars features extra-low dispersion (ED) glass for the highest level of optical performance. These roof-prism binocular models include super reflective, phase-coated prisms and feature excellent impact resistance and superb waterproofing. With a bright, clear field of view, the DCF ED binoculars are the perfect observation tool for the most difficult viewing conditions. The Pentax DCF HRc series roof-prism binoculars offer a bright, clear field of view in a lightweight package.
 
Read Comments [0] | 7:45 PM | Write comment

Wednesday, March 07, 2007

Binoculars Advice

It doesn't matter what you enjoy doing, from sporting events to bird watching, binoculars bring action closer. It means that binoculars are very important in our lives. Without a real pair of birding binoculars, observation binoculars, or astronomical binoculars, you experience a real disadvantage…
Binoculars reveal details that most people would otherwise miss. So, when choosing try to find something that will fit your application. First, you need to learn how to buy binoculars guide, and then start looking. This guide has lots of hints, and the help found here will be very helpful. So, start choosing today.
 
Read Comments [0] | 8:24 PM | Write comment

For birding professionals...

If you are a professional birder, or it's your hobby, then you'll understand me. Once you are involved in it, then you start getting up early even on the weekends and heading out on field trips.

In most cases the best birding happens at the crack of dawn, that unfortunately means that you need to get up extremely early and drive into the woods at the crack of dawn, or even earlier. So, it means that you need to get ready, and pack all the necessary equipment the day before.

I usually take the following items: binoculars (or birding binoculars, which I put on the front seat next to me), pencils and notebook, water, food, warm clothes, ID (or passport if you're heading outside of your country), etc. The list can go on and on, it differs, depending on my direction, time, length of stay, and season.

And make sure you're ready and prepared for all eventualities…
 
Read Comments [0] | 8:21 PM | Write comment

Monday, March 05, 2007

Lunar Eclipse through binoculars

Last night the East coast night time observers were able to witness a total lunar eclipse. I hope each one of you had an opportunity to see it, because it's something that we didn't have a chance to see since October 2004.

I armed myself with the most important weapon - binoculars, put on a warm jacket, scarf, boots, and went outside. Well, the actual progress was very distinct, and with the naked eye, it seemed that the earth was eating the moon. With the help of observation binoculars it was possible to see the full circle of the moon. Eventually, the moon was fully covered, and it did turn red, I'd even say, a subtle terracotta shade, which was more obvious through my astronomical binoculars, which definitely brought out the colors. The moon seemed to hang lower in the sky, and looked more like a planet, then the usual disk. Anyway, it's very hard to describe the feeling, you need to see it. And I'm very glad and happy that I did!

Clear night skies to you!
 
Read Comments [0] | 9:05 PM | Write comment

Thursday, March 01, 2007

Birding Binocular choice

If you are a professional and mature birdwatcher, then you'll honestly say, that binoculars are one of the most important and critical pieces of equipment you carry.

It's very hard to choose very good birding binoculars, and a lot of issues arise when you start looking. But there definitely are some details you should consider before choosing the one you'll definitely enjoy. One of the most important qualities is toughness. You need to be sure that if you drop your birding binoculars, they won't break. Second important detail is cost. Though the price is a good factor, you don't need to spend a whole lot of money. Binoculars in the $200 to $400 price range will serve all your needs, and will never miss a sighting. And the last third thing, though it may sound very funny and not very obvious, but you need to buy binoculars that are comfortable.
If you're going to be a birder, you'll definitely need binoculars! So, start your hunt now!!!!
 
Read Comments [0] | 10:09 PM | Write comment