I Can See the Stars

Before the meeting: 

1. Become familiar with the parts of the telescope you will be using. 
   • Tripod 
   • Mount 
   • Optical tube 
   • Finder scope 
   • Eyepiece 
   • Star diagonal 
   • Focuser 
2. Become familiar with the use of the telescope you will be using by following the owner’s manual. 
   • Proper setup 
   • How to how to aim the telescope at an object to view 
   • How to focus 
   • How to change the magnification
3. Identify a location that has minimal light pollution.  Check the forecast for an evening that is projected to have clear skies.  Confirm the date, time, and location to conduct the activity. 
4. If the location is different than your normal meeting location, have parents and legal guardians complete the Activity Consent Form. 
5. Set up the telescope to view the moon.  

During the meeting: 

1. Gather the Cub Scouts and adult partners and share with them what type of telescope you are using.   
2. Point out the parts of the telescope. 
3. Demonstrate how to use the finder scope. 
4. Demonstrate how to use the eyepiece and how to focus.   
5. One at a time, allow each Cub Scout and adult partner to look through the telescope and look at the moon and have them demonstrate how to focus.