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I have, and they are! I bought their 18x50 image-stabilized binoculars back in 2004, and still use them to this day. The first number refers to the magnificati
by spdustin 4y ago
I have, and they are! I bought their 18x50 image-stabilized binoculars back in 2004, and still use them to this day.
The first number refers to the magnification (18x) and the second is the size (50mm) of each objective lens, or the lens pointed at the object you’re looking at. The larger the objective, the more light they can gather.
At night, your pupil is probably 6-7mm in diameter. The 50mm objective can gather much more light than your unassisted pupils! Those binoculars also weigh over a kilogram, so they’re best for short handheld sessions if you’re standing. If you’re sitting or lying down, you won’t tire as quickly.
They’re wonderful for looking at globular clusters and nebulae, as well as for viewing Saturn or Jupiter; the Galilean moons are easy to spot! For lunar viewing, the stereoscopic view actually feels almost 3D.
Keep in mind, though: most binoculars aren’t specifically designed for astronomical observation. You won’t be able to attach ND filters, polarizers, or emission filters. So your best bet is to use them from dark skies with good “seeing” where you can just lay back and enjoy the view as you scan around trying to do a Messier Marathon. :)
Edit: it does have a standard tripod screw on the bottom, so a monopod with an added trigger-ball grip can make extended observation sessions more comfortable. Many binoculars require a bracket to mount to a monopod/tripod, but image-stabilized binos aren’t hinged; their relatively flat bottom means that larger image-stabilized binos often have a tripod screw.
2nd edit: I tracked ISS across the sky (with the stabilization on) last year, and I could clearly make out its shape.