Thinking about buying my son a telescope. After internet search, I’m confused. Reflector,refactor, brand, size?
He has a vast knowledge of planets,moons , solar systems, etc. but has never has had a telescope. Any advice is appreciated. Telescope for beginners or something more advanced.
Years ago we bought our son a telescope from Orion- he must’ve been about 9 or 10. He actually took it with him to college last year and still uses it. Good quality, I guess.
I can’t remember which one we bought but here is their guide to buying one- hope it helps!
Thank you, very helpful !
FYI, if interested Costco.com has 4 different telescopes you may wish to consider among your options.
A good telescope should not be cheap. Beware of box store Christmas specials, and try finding one through a reputable camera shop. One thing that’s important is a sturdy base – wobbly wooden legs make viewing really hard. You can ask for help from a local club, or buy a copy of Sky and Telescope and give him money to choose his own.
How easy it is to focus will be important too. Bigger is better but too big wont fit in the car or be easy to schlep across some field in the dark. DH has had a Meade 3.5" for decades and it has never let him down, hobbyist level, but fun. Buy your son a red-lens flashlight too, and have fun!