Telescope Help

I just bought and received the 6" Bushnell Dobsonian telescope but I need help with it. I am unsure on how to get my telescope to focus on images. I tried using the moon as a measuring stick first. Through the finder scope the image is crystal clear but when I look at the moon with the eyepiece(I used 25mm and 10mm) it is just a white blob with no detail. I tried looking at several stars but they looked like gray blobs. Is this normal? Is there something else I need to do to the telescope?

Hi

Carefully turn the focusing knobs on the focuser until you get a sharp image. Do it slowly - it is easy to race right by that focusing point. Also check to make sure the focuser is actually moving in and out as you turn the knobs. There is usually a tension adjustment on the underside of a focuser that allows you to adjust tension. It has to be engaged enough to actually move the focuser tube, though. Let us know if this solves the problem.

Ok, I will try it and let you know.

Best of luck, Juan

I'm sorry but I got the same results. I tried to slowly turn the focusing knob while viewing the moon with the 25mm eyepiece but the image only appeared to be a white blob with no detail. Not sure what to do, the telescope is brand new from opticsplanet. Do I need to do collimation or align the primary/secondary mirror first?

Hi Juan

I am sorry you are having this problem, but we'll find a way to fix it.

Yes, collimation is the next step, but even if the mirrors are out of alignment, you should be getting some detail, unless you have a mirror that is completely out of whack.

Here's what I would like you to do. Call OP and ask for Bob, one of our product specialists. He's there midday from Monday through Thursday. There is nothing he cannot fix, especially when it comes to telescopes. I won't even tell you how many telescopes he owns. If he decides it is a defective scope, he will arrange an exchange, at the very least. Feel free to tell him Joanie sent you. I no longer work onsite at OP so no way we can visit by phone and that's what I think we need to do on this one. Be sure to let us know how things work out.

Ok, I'll give him a call on Monday.

Good. Be sure and let me know what he says.

No worries now. The problem has been fixed. Let's just say it was a very novice error that I won't bear to mention but I can see with much clarity now! Thanks for helping me, sorry for the inconvenience.

Not an inconvenience at all, Juan. We're here to help if you need anything else.