Re: Tips for Deciding on Very First Telescope......

From: Steve Maddison (steve_at_cosam.org)
Date: 12/05/04 

Date: Sun, 05 Dec 2004 02:20:41 +0100

Aaron Svicek wrote:
> Well, I have just completed my first astronomy course down at the
> local university and have been tinkering with StarryNight on my
> computer for about the last 6 months and I have decided that
> binoculars are just not adequate any more. From the little bit of
> research I have done on telescopes, I have come to the conclusion
> that I should definitely go with a Newtonian. But where to start?
> What type of mount, what manufacturer, etc.....? I guess I am just
> hoping some of the more experienced amateur astronomers will be able
> to put up some pro's and cons and kinda point me in the right
> direction.

Hi Aaron,

I'll give you the same advice good advice as I was given in your
situation, which is to find a local astronomy group in your area and see
if they have any "star parties" planned any time soon. That way you
should get the chance to look through a few different scopes and see
what suits you best, plus you'll have direct contact with those
experienced astronomers.

Even if you're set on a Newtonian, seeing these things in action (or
better yet: trying them out yourself) will give you a better insight of
the advantages and disadvantages of different mounts, etc.

Other factors which will influence your decision are what you want to do
with the scope (e.g. visual work, astrophotography), what kind of
objects interest you the most, and or course the budget you have in
mind. If you can specify your requirements in these areas, I'm sure the
suggestions will start flooding in ;-)

Best of luck,

  Steve 

-- 
Steve Maddison
Den Haag, The Netherlands
http://www.cosam.org/
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