Looking for a Telescope

mini
Tue, 26 Mar 2013 12:02:23 +0000

If you have no experience, Dobsonian reflector is the only way to go. My wife and d. when she was 9 built an 8" one. They are stable, easy to use, don’t rely on any kind of mechanized equipment (unless you choose), and gathers far more light than the table-top toystore variety.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dobsonian_telescope

Of the storebought Dobsonians, the Zhumells generally have the best optical quality.

Having said that, you really should start with really good binoculars. You will learn the sky better that way, and will make your future enjoyment of the telescope that much greater.