NP> Reading your messages about binoculars prompted me to go and
 NP> get mine out of the car. They are 20 x 50 (field 3 degrees). It
 NP> wasn't until then that I discoverd another hole in memory. I
 NP> used to know, but I can't for the life of me remember what the
 NP> 20 and the 50 stand for. I know one number is the magnification
 NP> A quick refresher would be appreciated if possible

  20 X 50 means 20X magnification and a 50mm lens.

 NP> Would my binocs be OK for sky looking?

  It's hard to hold 20X steady enough. 10X is about the maximum.

  There is also an optimum for night vision. 8x40 or 10X50 gives a 5mm
exit diameter and that is about the minimum for general use. 7X50 is 
better.

Regards,
Bob
___ Blue Wave/QWK v2.12
@EOT:

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