What to look for in a telescope.
Generally speaking...
Make sure it has at least 4.5" of aperture, and preferably more.. The more aperture the better.
If it's a non-dobsonian reflector then make sure it has a sturdy mount, such as a metal German equatorial mount.
Good brands of telescopes are Meade, Celestron, Orion, and possibly Zhummell or Konus.
DO NOT buy anything from a department store, even if it is one of the above brands.
DO NOT buy a refractor unless it is a high quality apochromatic one.
DO NOT buy anything that emphasizes power. This is misleading.
DO decide what you want to use the telescope for. Some telescopes are more ideal for viewing planets while others are more ideal for viewing deep space objects. Some are well designed for astrophotography while others, such as dobsonians, would need considerable modifcation to use them for that purpose.
DO learn about telescopes. You can learn about them at:
http://http://members.aol.com/siriusbc/telescopes.htm
If you become knowledgable enough, you might want to consider buying a used telescope. They are often 1/3 to 1/2 the price of new ones and are typically well cared for.
You can find used telescopes in the classifieds at http://www.astromart.com
2007-04-21 09:22:22
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answer #1
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answered by minuteblue 6
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Before you even consider buying a telescope, ask yourself if you really need one. Even advanced amateurs don't necessarily have telescopes.
Your best bet is to go to some star parties and take a look at what others are using.
If you do decide, after conducting research, that you really want one, please go to a good specialty shop. DO NOT buy a telescope from a department store.
2007-04-23 09:08:01
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answer #2
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answered by Anonymous
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Check out a Celestron, Newtonian Reflector, C8.
www.celestron.com
2007-04-21 07:45:24
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answer #3
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answered by Stratman 4
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probably looking at a 6" scope for that money. Check out Orion Telescopes
2007-04-21 07:39:18
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answer #4
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answered by bombaybubba 3
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I did that for my Grand Daughter and was disappointed because they lived in the edge of a large city, and the lights blinded u so we could not see that much.
2007-04-21 10:10:28
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answer #5
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answered by JOHNNIE B 7
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Visit www.telescope.com
They hv a nice Product Wizard that guides you to select as per your requirement
2007-04-21 07:47:18
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answer #6
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answered by -- 2
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umm i would have to say google the best kind
2007-04-21 07:58:19
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answer #7
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answered by Anonymous
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