All you need to know about a telrad

This is a video I took that shows off how a telrad works. A telrad is a type of finder for a telescope that does not have any magnification. It projects a set of small circles (correction for the video: its 0.5 degrees, 2 degrees, and 4 degrees, not 1, 3, 5) that allow you to align your telescope on objects in the sky. I find them to be much easier to use than a typical finder scope. Two AA batteries will last you about two years in my experience.

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• astronomy
• telescope
• dobsonian
• reflector
• telrad
• opt
• stars
• galaxies
• planets

[huntish]

why use this over a smaller red dot style finder scope

[Cyber0Bill]

@huntish - The red dot finders are OK, but they put the dot RIGHT ON TOP of what you want to look at. The telrad gives you 3 circles that you can use to frame multiple objects. The telrad is also adjustable without tools - every red dot finder I've seen requires the use of an allen wrench. If you go to a star party ask around and see if you can find someone who owns one, and take a look at it. Every single astronomer I know prefers the telrad over the red dot!! :)

[WSthe3rd]

Hello Cyber0Bill, my parents actually own and manufacture the Telrad, Im glad you posted this video with your honest opinion on this product that has been around for many years helping people see what they need to see. Each one of these Telrads are hand made with TLC.

[heroiclifestyle]

I think my Telrad has circles at 4', 2' and 0.5' Very excited about using this for geometric searches in training for a Messier Marathon.

[wilsocn]

Thanks for the breakdown.  Looks like a nice addition to have.

[riverbender]

Excellent video for those of us considering a Telrad!

Thanks and Clear Skies,

[spectator59]

Helpful video; thanks.



[jordanclarke99]

cheers for the video, the written explaination i found was incomprehesible!!

now i know!

[AlmightyAddman]

thanks great help

[cykefreez]

very helpful. thanks!

[dayone54]

hanx sooo much cyber bill. i just bought one for my nexstar 6se. i cant wait to use it.

thanx for the demo i needed just that. its my 1x having a telrad. and boy are they BIG!

lol

clear skies

debbie:)