HOME » Observing Projects » The WAS Binocular 25 Project

To encourage new members and young members to view the sky whenever possible, we offer our Binocular 25 project and we hope many of you will join in. We hope that you will find it worthwhile to view all these objects, some that you may not have considered up to now. The range is kept varied although all are within the capabilities of modest size binoculars suitable for astronomical viewing.

The Moon, planets, constellations (that many not usually consider studying), star groups, Messier objects that can be found in binoculars (although good seeing conditions may be necessary) and double stars are all included to add variation. 

Most items should be possible from your own home location but for some objects you may need to visit a darker site or visit the Society's observatory location, where you can obtain assistance in finding any particularly difficult subjects and perhaps try other members binoculars that are available at the time. 

You will see that the Sun is included but only by projection through binoculars onto a suitable surface. A tripod with a suitable attachment to fit your binoculars would be useful. 

If you successfully complete 25 out of 30 items in the itinerary and are a member of the Society, we will award a WAS 25 Binocular certificate to you.

Binocular Viewing Tips

For best results consider the following:

• Be Steady. Support your hands, elbows and arms on any object nearby that is suitable for viewing the height of the object you have selected. Alternatively, keep your hands against your body to assist in steadying your binocular view. Holding your breath for a short while can help steady the view. It is sometimes useful to use averted vision by looking to the edge of the eyepiece and therefore seeing the object from the side of your vision.

• Be Comfortable. Use a chair - an adjustable lounger type garden chair is very suitable.

• Be Patient. Be patient and still while finding and viewing an object.

• Avoid Light. Avoid any light pollution by turning your back against it and using any form of screening, i.e. trees and garden sheds.

• Understand the field of view of your binoculars. This will help you to know exactly where you are looking, particularly if you are trying to find an object by referencing a star map.

• Be Warm. Make sure you are suitably clothed and have suitable footwear on. The nights can change quickly in temperature and humidity.

The Object to View

Download Certificate record sheet (MS Word format)

Download field of view sheets (GIF image)

Content © 2008 Wycombe Astronomical Society. No part of this site may be reproduced in any way without prior written permission. Read our Privacy policy.
Wycombe Astronomical Society is a UK Registered Charity No. 297024. Connectivity supplied by Internet Services.