Re: Refractor vs. Reflector?

From: SCB (bradleyre_at_tns.net)
Date: 09/07/04 

Date: Tue, 07 Sep 2004 16:12:57 -0700

MrAoD wrote:
> Thanks to all who replied. The information supplied was very helpful. Based
> on that I've revised my initial decision as follows:
>
> 1. Ixnay on the Bushnell line. I chose Bushnell for name familiarity from
> hunting optics way back in the 80s. Either the brand has declined or their
> astronomy line isn't comparable.
>
> 2. Orion products look very tasty. I'm not hard up for cash and I didn't mean
> to imply a $200 ceiling was all I could afford, just that I wasn't sure his
> Lordship's interest in astronomy would continue and didn't see spending a mint
> on a passing fancy. It's more important to me that I don't kill his interest
> by getting a scope that's inadequate.
>
> 3. I'm now considering the Orion short tube 80, and the Starblast. I'd prefer
> the 80 since I can use it for terrestrial viewing also, but the choice hinges
> more on quick usability. Remember, I'm dealing with a 6 year old who can tell
> you why Sol won't end up as a black hole but still has a 6 year old attention
> span. More than 10 minutes of setup and he'll lose the mood (exactly the
> opposite of dealing with the missus ;-).
>
> If I buy the 80 I'll need to buy a tripod and if I buy the Starblast I'll need
> to figure out a platform for setup since most of our viewing will be in the
> field (camping, parks, beach). I'm assuming the DOB base of the blast either
> is or can be tapped for a tripod.
>
> Mounts. Should I buy an EQ or an altaz if I go with the 80? How long does an
> EQ take to set up and calibrate? I'm pretty certain the altaz is point and
> shoot.
>
> Thanks for the feedback, this is a great group.
>
> Marc
Marc, a dob almost always sets up faster than a refractor--especially
one such as the Starblast, which is essentially complete from the "get go."
With an EQ mount, you have to assemble the 'scope to the mount
(sometimes assemble the mount), equatorially align, and then you're
ready. Unless you carry as a unit, it takes 15 or so minutes to get
everything "just so."
An altaz mount is very useful for "quick looks;" a dob is altaz by its
nature.
Be sure that what you get fits the little person size-wise. (Eyepiece
height, etc are as important as scope selection for a youngster).
Good luck!
It's a great hobby. Keep him interested in the world around him, and in
  space, etc.
Steve B.

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