2006-10-02 16:44:53 · 5 answers · asked by Drum Wiz 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Astronomy & Space
For most people a Newtonian reflector makes more sense. A dobsonian-mounted Newtonian will give you the most telescope for your money by far.
As far as being bulkier than refractors, that's only true if you're comparing a large dob to a much smaller refractor. By the time you get it mounted, a 4" refractor will easily outweigh an 8" dob.
Premium refractors are beautiful instruments; I own one. It gives great views of planets and double stars. But my dob is twice as big in aperture for a fourth of the price and less weight, and will show far more galaxies and other faint fuzzies.
The third option is the Schmidt-Cassegrain, intermediate between the Newtonian and the refractor in cost. The 8" size is very popular, and can be had in a compact package with computer control.
2006-10-02 18:22:50 · answer #1 · answered by injanier 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Depends on what you like. Some like reflectors and some refractors. Either way there is not much difference. The third popular one is Smith-Cassegrains. They are a mix of both.
Reflectors tend to get bulky and can be hard to look through because the eyepiece is usually moving along with the telescope as it follows the path. They are cheaper than refractors and the light-gathering power is more. Refractors can have problems with ghost images or colors around the edges but they are easier to look through and transportable.
2006-10-02 23:52:01 · answer #2 · answered by worldneverchanges 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You get a bigger diameter mirror in a reflector scope than the lens in a refractor scope for the same amount of money. Result: more light-gathering capacity.
But the refractor gives a better image.
I opted for a refractor from Orion and have been very happy with it.
2006-10-03 00:04:26 · answer #3 · answered by actuator 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you have a permanant place to put it, a reflector is better cause you can get a larger mirror than a lens type for the dsame money. Better light gathering power if larger. Refractors are easy for mobile use.
2006-10-02 23:50:42 · answer #4 · answered by orion_1812@yahoo.com 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you buy it from a department store it won't matter what kind it is. It will still be abominable crap.
Do your homework before making a purchase. There is good stuff out there and there is abysmally bad quality stuff. And the funny thing is, the good and the bad will sell for the same price.
2006-10-03 04:56:32 · answer #5 · answered by Search first before you ask it 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋