How can you tell a good telecope when you see one?

Question

I've always wanted a telepscope but havn't gotten around to actually start looking for one recently but I know absolutley nothing about them. I don't wanna get shafted when i go to buy one so I you could gimme some good pointers on pricing for a moderate type telescope(not a crappy kids one, and not the hubble) and how to tell what all optic things mean i.e. 400x36. Any help is apreciated.

Answer 1

Another good way is to find people who have good telescopes, and ask them to give you pointers. Is there an astronomy club in your area?

A good telescope is sturdy; does not shake easily (any shaking will be magnified).

Its lens or mirrors are of good quality; e.g., with a Newtonian (mirror at the bottom), place the tube horizontal and place your face in line with the tube. You should see your face (or part of it) in the mirror. See how far you can back up before the image becomes distorted (remember, no mirror is perfect but you should still be able to back up a bit).

For a first telescope: it should be portable and easy to set up. I still have a 10-inch telescope that is so heavy and difficult to set up (almost an hour) that it spends far too much time gathering dust -- I prefer to observe with a much smaller 3-inch refractor that can be set up in two minutes. Better a smaller telescope you use than a big one that you do not use.

For planets (and bright objects): refractors are usually better (better resolution and magnification are possible).
For faint objects, reflectors are better (less expensive to make a large mirror than to make a large lens -- and you need size to gather more light).

Find a reliable store (ask other users in your area), then go there a few times to discuss with experts.

Takes a bit of time and research to make sure you get a good one that fits your needs. My big clunker is a very good telescope -- it just does not fit my needs nor my schedule.

Answer 2

Try this site. It's the Sky & Telescope magazine's guide to chosing a telescope with some useful tips.

http://skytonight.com/equipment/basics

Here's another good starting site

http://members.tripod.com/irwincur/telescope_primer.htm

Answer 3

Yes, there's some good stuff in the Sky & Telescope guide. Another approach is to get in touch with a local astronomy society - they'll be able to give you personalised advice and you'll often find they have used scopes for sale. Just as important, they'll be able to help you use your telescope - it takes practice!

Answer 4

If u intend to use it in the city u will be disappointed. The city lights partially blind u. Look for the longest focal length will give u the best resolution.
Good luck