Waterproof Binoculars
How to Choose Binoculars For Astronomy
When buying binoculars for astronomy one of the main considerations is the light gathering capability of the binoculars you are looking to buy and therefore the size of the objective lens is extremely important.
Before you start check out the range of binoculars for astronomy that are currently on the market you need to consider the distance you are looking to cover and what level of detail you are hoping to see. If you can imagine that a telescope can provide you with a significantly larger aperature (objective lens) and a wide range of magnification abilities it’s understandable that for viewing over longer distances, and to see the finer details, a telescope is often a better option. However that said binoculars can prove useful, even for the serious astronomer, and are an inexpensive way to get started.
The real pro’s of using binoculars for astronomy is the minimal set up time, the relatively low cost, portability and the fact that there isn’t an endless list of accessories that you need to buy.
Manufacturers generally indicate whether or not their binos are suitable binoculars for astronomy but as a general guide you want to be looking for giant binoculars or binoculars with an objective lens that is 50mm or greater. 10×50′s are often a popular choice for astronomy as they are reasonably comfortable to hold yet powerful enough for the basic astronomers needs.
Some manufacturers do make smaller binoculars for astronomy such as the Pentax PCF 8×40 or the higher quality Pentax DCF SP 8×43 and Olympus rate their EXPS I 8×42′s as excellent astronomy binoculars. As a general rule, and particularly relating to the smaller binos, if the objective lens is 5 times or more than the magnification you can use them for astronomy.
If you are looking for a real meaty beast then the Celestron Skymaster series ranges from 15 x 70 up to 25 x 100 (which offers the power of a small telescope) and Nikon do the 10 x 70IF SP which is considerably more expensive (around £1200 versus up to £400 for a Skymaster) but you are paying for the quality of the lenses and the superior optical design (one of the leaders in it’s class). The bigger you go when you are looking for binoculars for astronomy the greater the power and light gathering abilities so if you opt for a 25 x 100 (25x magnification, 100mm objective lens) you will be able to see further and view objects in greater detail than with a 7 x 35 or a 10 x 50 (for example).
Binoculars for Astronomy, quick check list:
• Fully multi-coated lenses are a must
• Waterproof binoculars are generally best if you want to prevent fogging and view in all weather conditions.
• The best astronomy binoculars come with Bak-4 Porro prisms (Bak-4 glass is high quality glass and porro prisms generally provide greater light transmission and a sharper image than their roof prism counterparts)
• Always check a binoculars suitability for astronomy
• Remember the more powerful the better and if you want a performance similar to a small telescope buy a binocular with the largest possible objective lens.
• For larger binoculars make sure you check tripod / mounting requirements.
• Quality optics is important and no more so than for astronomy. If you can afford high quality binoculars they are well worth paying for.
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Nikon Waterproof Binoculars
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8×25 Waterproof Monocular Built to endure the toughest of conditionsProvides great viewing in a compact, lightweight sizeConstructed with smaller prisms and objective lenses to reduce weight, yet offer superb viewingWaterproof and fogproofLong eye reliefBAK4 opticsFully multi-coatedPrism Type: RoofF.O.V. (ft @ 1000 yds): 321Fully Multi-coated LensBAK4 PrismRubber Fold Down Eye Cups… |
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Pentax 65809 PCF II 12×50 Waterproof Binocular $199.00 See what you might have been missing with the PENTAX PCF WP II series of binoculars. A perfect companion for dusk or dawn observation, these high-performance models come with large objective lenses for superior light gathering in even the lowest light conditions. The nitrogen-filled bodies are protected by a rubber covering that makes them waterproof, fog-proof, and fully submersible down to one m… |
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Nikon 8218 Trailblazer 10X25 Hunting Binoculars $88.73 New Nikon 8218 Trailblazer 10X25 Hunting Binoculars.Nikon Trailblazer Binocular 10×25, Waterproof ATB, The waterproof/fogproof Trailblazer is Nikon’s newest compact All Terrain binocular. Sleek, lightweight body, lead-and arsenic-free Eco-Glass optics and rubber coating provide a comfortable grip. Multiple layers of anti-reflective compounds offer crisp, sharp viewing. Magnification: 10x Objective… |
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Celestron Outland X 8×25 Binocular, Black $41.99 Celestron Outland X 8X25 Waterproof… |
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Barska 8 x 32 Waterproof Hunting Binoculars $0 Perfect accessory for the avid hunter or nature lover8 x 32 magnification powerBinoculars boast rugged, waterproof designBAK-4 prisms |
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Rokinon XPLOR 8×42 Waterproof Binoculars $54.99 Featuring a multi-coated 42mm objective lens, these XPLOR waterproof binoculars by Rokinin are rubber armored for added durability and protection. |
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Rokinon XPLOR 10×42 Waterproof Binoculars $63.99 Light-weight and durable, these XPLOR waterproof binoculars by Rokinon are made of the finest quality and craftsmanship. The binocular lenses are fully magenta coated for a high relative light factor. |
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