Instruction
Telescopes require more training compared to magnifiers. In this topic you will learn to teach a person how to use a handheld telescope.
To begin
- Remove any caps from the telescope to allow viewing and show the person the part of the telescope that is held to the eye (eyepiece).
- Hold the telescope steady, as close to the eye as possible.
Tip
If a person has better vision in one eye compared to the other, they should use the telescope with their better eye.
Focusing
- Identify a large object in the distance, without the telescope.
- Hold the telescope to the eye and turn the focussing ring out as far as possible while looking at the object.
- Turn the focusing ring in the opposite direction slowly, to bring the object into focus.
Localising objects
Localising means learning how to find objects at a distance.
- First practise finding and focusing on large objects in the distance, as per ‘focusing’ instructions above.
- When confident, progress to finding and focusing on smaller objects.
- When objects that are still can be localised, progress to finding and focusing on moving objects such as people.
Tracking moving objects
Telescopes can be used to track moving objects, for example a bus or a car.
- Always move the head rather than the eyes when tracking.
- Start by tracking a straight line, by following a line on the floor. This involves practising the correct head movements (scanning) to follow an object.
- When confident, practise tracking the service provider or a family member as they walk around the room.
- Progress to faster moving objects when confident.
Warning
A telescope should never be used while the person is moving. It limits their field of view and makes objects look closer than they are. This can be dangerous.
Activity
- If you have handheld telescopes available practise focusing, localising and tracking objects.
- Now teach a friend or colleague how to use a handheld telescope.