Ensuring you’re ready to begin observing

Now you have got the right binoculars, are they set up properly?

Each side of the binocular needs to be aligned with the other, known as collimation, because if they are not, you will end up with a headache! Make sure that when you look through them with both eyes, you see just one perfectly circular field of view. If you feel that one eye is straining, or worse, you can see two images of the same object, either do not buy them, or take them to an expert for re-collimating.

Pay close attention to the specification

In order to work out how 'powerful' your binoculars are, look out for a magnification marker. These numbers are usually found on the barrels.

Multi-coated optics will provide better views

Multi-coated reflect more stray light, allowing ‘good light’ through the barrels for better observations of your night-sky targets.

Seek out the right prisms

Check to see if they are binoculars with 'Porro prisms', which are preferable due to their higher quality image, or 'Roof prisms'.

Make focuser adjustments

Check that the focus wheel in the centre is smooth in operation, and that there is a separate right eye adjustment to ensure comfortable viewing.

Check for good eye relief

If you wear glasses, see if you can see the full field of view without removing your spectacles. If you don't need to, you have good eye relief.

Ensure that you’re fully collimated

Finally, check that you can see a single circular field with both eyes, and that there are no double images. Duplication means poor-quality optics!