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

On Mon, 11 Dec 2006 15:30:07 -0800, LurfysMa <invalid@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
wrote:

My grandson, age 9, wants a telescope for Christmas. He's kind of a
nerdy kid who gets into something and really spends a lot of time with
it. His folks are involved and will help him. His only problem is that
he can be somewhat impatient and gets frustrated at times.

OK. Today I went to the Orion store and came away with a big box and a
bag.

Before I get into what I got, I just want to say a very big Thank You
to everyone who contributed to this thread. It was immensely helpful.

It was extremely informative to see the actual telescopes.

I also want to recommend Ken Sablinsky, the guy who waited on me at
the store. This guy is the perfect retail sales guy for technical
gear. He is an astronomy hobbiest and loves his hobby. He is also
patient and respectful. I was in the store for almost an hour trying
and testing a lot of different telescopes.

I ended up with a 90mm AstroView EQ Refractor ($300). I choose it over
the StarBlast or the SkyQuest for several reasons:

(1) It can be used in the daytime as well as at night.

(2) Ken told me that the reflectors would have to be realigned anytime
they are moved much. The refrators are maintenance free other than
cleaning.

(3) The EQ mount will accept a motor for constant tracking.

I also got a Shorty-Plus 2x 3-element Barlow ($80).

The package was completed with a copy of Doscover the Stars ($14) and
Turn Left at Orion ($25) plus an Orion RedBeam II LED flashlight
($18).

Total came to $472 with tax.

I hope I made a good choice.

Again, thanks to everyone for all the help.

--
.

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