Whether your interest is in bird watching or gazing at the heavens, this reference guide teaches you the essentials of telescopes, spotting scopes, and binoculars -- from buying and operating to adjustments and maintenance. This handy resource covers: telescopes: how they work and what to look for; telescope accessories; setting up your telescope; telescope adjustment and maintenance; using the telescope; finding your way around the night sky; astrophotography (with both film and digital formats); and binoculars: how they work and what to look for. This guide also includes information you need to successfully view sporting events, landscapes, terrains, and more. Over 100 full-color diagrams, maps, photographs and illustrations.