Telrad

Zero-Power Finding with Reference Circles

A Telrad does not magnify. It superimposes a reticle on the actual sky, so what you see through it matches what you see with your eyes and what is printed on a chart.

• Half, two and four degree circles: Sizes chosen to match the reference circles used in printed star atlases, which is what makes chart matching so direct.
• No magnification: The sky through the Telrad looks exactly as it does to the naked eye, so there is no mental translation between finder view and chart.
• Adjustable brightness: Dim enough not to overwhelm faint naked-eye stars, which matters under dark skies where the guide stars themselves are faint.
• Base and mounting: An adhesive base attaches to the tube, and the sight slides on and off, so it can be removed for transport without losing alignment.
• Dew shields: The angled window dews readily, and a shield or heater is genuinely necessary in humid conditions.
• Pairing with a magnifying finder: Telrad for rough aim, optical finder for the final step — considerably faster than either alone.

Why Choose David Astro for Telrad

A Telrad is simple, and the details that make it work well are mostly about where it goes and how you keep it clear.

• Mounting position advice: Placement matters for comfortable use at high tube angles, and we will suggest where to fix the base before you stick it on permanently.
• Dew protection recommended: The window dews faster than the main optic, and a shield or heater keeps it usable through a full session.
• Pairing suggested: We recommend combining it with a magnifying finder, since the two-stage approach is faster than either alone.
• Authorized dealer: Genuine products with manufacturer warranty, in Canadian stock.
• Ships from Canada: No duties or brokerage fees for Canadian buyers.

Telrad in Canada — Frequently Asked Questions

Why are the circles those sizes?

Half, two and four degrees match the reference circles printed on standard star atlases, so you can place the pattern on a chart and then place the same pattern on the sky.

Does it work under light-polluted skies?

Less well, since star hopping depends on seeing naked-eye guide stars. Under heavy light pollution a magnifying finder or GoTo is more practical.

Will it dew up?

Readily, because the window faces the sky at an angle. A dew shield extension or a small heater is worth having, since a fogged Telrad ends star hopping for the night.

Can I move the base between telescopes?

Extra bases are available, so you can fit one to each telescope and move the single sight between them. The base stays put and the sight slides off for transport.

Learning to star hop?

Tell us your telescope and we will advise on placement and dew protection. Ships from our Canadian warehouse.