Main risks

• Serious eye injury from viewing the Sun or other intense sources without telescope-specific solar filters.
• Tripod or mount tip-overs and finger entrapment when adjusting legs, clamps and counterweights.
• Tripping over extended legs or cables (on motorised models), especially in the dark.
• Damage from rain, dew or dust; condensation on optics and, in electrical equipment, risk of short-circuit.
• Breakage of lenses or mirrors due to impacts or drops, with potentially sharp edges.
• Concentration of sunlight that can heat and damage nearby objects or the equipment itself.
• Injuries from lifting or carrying heavy or bulky equipment.

Safe use

• Never look at the Sun through the telescope without a dedicated solar filter that is in good condition and correctly installed; do not use sunglasses or improvised solutions.
• Set up the equipment on a firm, level surface; lock the legs securely and ensure the assembly is stable before observing.
• Keep the telescope away from balcony edges or drop-offs, and take extra care in windy conditions.
• Tidy cables and keep walkways clear; use dim lighting to move safely at night.
• Avoid accidentally pointing towards the Sun or intense reflections; fit the caps when not observing.
• If the equipment is motorised, use only compatible, good-condition power supplies; keep connectors and cables dry and free from strain.
• When assembling and disassembling, hold the tube firmly and operate clamps and screws with both hands to avoid pinching or drops.
• If your equipment includes an illuminated finder or pointer, never direct it towards the eyes of people or animals, or towards vehicles.
• For transport, separate large components where possible and use a case or handle; do not walk while looking through the telescope.

Storage and maintenance

• Store the telescope in a dry, clean and well-ventilated place, away from extreme temperatures.
• Allow gradual acclimatisation when moving from cold to warm to reduce condensation; if it appears, dry it gently.
• Keep caps and covers in place and, if possible, use a padded case or bag to protect against dust and impacts.
• Clean the optics only when necessary, using soft tools; avoid abrasive products and excessive pressure.
• Periodically check fasteners, screws, tripod legs and counterweights; replace any damaged parts.
• Do not store the equipment when wet; allow it to dry completely before closing it in a case.
• If it runs on batteries, remove them for prolonged storage and avoid heat sources or direct sunlight (for example, inside a car).
• Keep small accessories together and out of the reach of children to avoid loss or improper handling.

Restrictions on use

• Not a toy: use by children only under adult supervision.
• Do not use the telescope to observe the Sun except with specific solar filters in perfect condition; if in doubt, do not point it at the Sun.
• Do not use the equipment in rain, snow, dense fog or during a thunderstorm, nor expose electrical components to moisture.
• Do not operate in traffic areas, narrow corridors or near edges/drop-offs where the equipment could fall.
• Do not modify the telescope or open optical or electronic components.
• Avoid outdoor use in strong winds or on unstable surfaces.
• Do not leave the equipment unattended outdoors or in the presence of children or pets.
• Do not direct finder or pointer lights at eyes, people, animals or vehicles.
• Do not place flammable materials in front of the aperture when there is a risk of exposure to sunlight.