Telescope Lab

Service Description

Do you have a telescope that you would like to learn how to operate or get help with setting up? Our staff members will be on hand at the start of each session to give you a one-on-one tutorial. Learn how to properly assemble and balance your telescope, align the finderscope and computer, collimate the mirrors, and choose the appropriate eyepieces. We can even help you learn how to find objects in the sky with your own telescope! Since these events are weather dependent, on occasions, we may need to postpone the event at short notice. If this happens, you will receive a text message on your mobile, one hour prior to the event, and your appointment will be re-arranged. These sessions are for smaller groups; up to five people and one telescope per person and are scheduled on demand. Agenda * Basic principles of telescopes * Learn how to setup your EQ mount * Learn how to setup your AZ mount * Learn how to collimate your telescope (mirror alignment) * Telescope clinic (fix and tune your telescope) - Additional fees may apply * Learn how to find objects in the sky Telescope Labs are taking place from Maraetai Beach, Maraetai, just 40 minutes from the Auckland CBD. This beautiful location offers stunning views of the night sky and low light pollution coming from the city. This is key to allow long-term expositions to capture amazing pictures of deep-sky objects like nebulae and galaxies. There are four public parking (free) available (+40 cars capacity) and public toilets close to the observation area. Finding the observation area can be tricky if you are not familiar with Maraetai. Please, come a bit earlier and consider following the google maps directions: https://goo.gl/maps/5y6qxTrDYKQ2

Contact Details