Stargazing Help My telescope fell and now it won't focus

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A telescope fell and dented a garbage can lid, causing focus issues with light and blur. The user was advised to check the collimation, suggesting that the secondary mirror mount may be misaligned due to the fall. The telescope model is a Bushnell Mak Cassegrain, and after following the advice to adjust the screws and reassemble, the user successfully restored its functionality. The discussion highlights the importance of careful handling and basic maintenance for telescope alignment. Overall, the issue was resolved through community guidance and practical adjustments.
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It fell halfway over, denting my metal garbage can lid. The finderscope came off but I could easily reattach it. I can see light and blur now...what should I do?? I don't want to just open it up without knowing what I'm looking for. Thank you!
 
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General suggestion: Try checking the collimation.
 
Sounds like a reflector which fell 'headfirst', suggesting the seconday mirror mount is now misaligned. Assuming it has a spider mount, loosen and retension the mounting screws until it recenters. You can do this in daylight using a distant object to roughly recenter the focal plane, then a bright star at night to fine tune it.
 
What type of telescope is it, Refractor, Newtonian or Catadioptric ?
 
danielandpenn said:
It fell halfway over, denting my metal garbage can lid. The finderscope came off but I could easily reattach it. I can see light and blur now...what should I do?? I don't want to just open it up without knowing what I'm looking for. Thank you!

The model number is 78-8840
 
Thanks so much everyone. It is a Mak Cassegrain by Bushnell. I will try your advice, first, Chronos. Thank you.
 
I got it! I unscrewed it, opened it up and put it all back and Voila! It's perfect! Thanks!
 
Hey! good stuff. :-)
 

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