Re: Starter scope for 9 year old: StarBlast or SkyQuest?

On Thu, 14 Dec 2006 02:31:24 -0700, W. H. Greer <sendnomail@xxxxxxxx>
wrote:

LurfysMa wrote:

I'm not sure I fully understand the difference between the StarBlast
and the StarBlast EQ. The magnifications are different (26x, 75x vs
39x, 75x) but I think that's because they come with different
eyepieces (Explorer II 17.0mm, 6.0mm vs 3-Element 15.0mm, 6.0mm).

Ah-ha! You caught something I missed.

I just did a search (on the Orion website) for "StarBlast" then
checked the "compare" box for the two StarBlast and then clicked on
Compare. I got a side-by-side comparison chart. From there, it was
easy to spot the differences.

The Expanse eyepieces that the
EQ comes with provide wider fields of view and better (at least with
the 6mm) eye-relief. Such eyepieces are easier for beginners to use
with any telescope.

But I can buy other eyepieces for either scope, no?

The big difference seems to be the mount type (altazimuth vs
equatorial). According to Wikipedia, the altazimuth mount is simpler
to build and use, but more difficult for tracking moving objects
because tracking must be done on two axes. The equatorial mount is
more complex, but eliminates the earth's spin as a variable. It then
goes on to say that altazimuth are more appropriate for dobsonian
scopes.

The differences you mention are accurate.

A Dobsonian is (by definition) essentially a low-budget Newtonian on
an inexpensive, altaz mount. A Newtonian on an EQ mount is no longer
(by most definitions) a Dobsonian.

Would you only get the EQ if a sturdy platform is NOT available?

That was my original intent. My reasoning had to do with the use of
the standard (non-EQ) StarBlast. Without some kind of solid, raised
platform (picnic table, etc.) to rest it on, a child would end up
having to lie on the ground in order to use it. The EQ version is on
a raised tripod -- placing the eyepiece at a more convenient height.

The Expanse eyepieces make the EQ a bit more attractive; but if a
sturdy platform is available for the other scope, the final decision
would depend heavily on the specific child. I suggest using both
scopes (actually pointing them at a variety of targets) with their
supplied eyepieces while at the Orion store so that you can better see
the differences in the mounts as well as the eyepieces.

OK. Will I be able to tell how well these things will work at night on
celestial objects by looking at telephone poles from the store in the
day?

I suspect
that most 9-year olds would be more comfortable using the alt-az
version; but both are good first telescopes.

I going to the store today.

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