Buying That First Telescope

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This is a crucial decision. If you get the wrong telescope, you will be frustrated, and probably not use it after a few tries. Here we will discuss a few of the options, types, and what to look for when you buy a telescope. Buying a telescope and using it can be very rewarding. You will see things in the sky that you didn't know existed, and will be amazed at what you can see.

First, the power of a telescope (See Optics) is NOT a consideration. The primary considerations for a first telescope should be:

1. Aperture. - This is the size of the primary objective. In a refractor it is the front piece of glass, and in a reflector, it is the size of the mirror. Try to get at least a 6" mirror for a newtonian reflector and an 80mm for a refractor. Remember, the refractor will be more expensive that a reflector.
2. Affordability. - Decide first how much money you want to spend, then get as big an aperture as you can afford. There will be trade-offs here, as the mount will change the expense of the telescope system. An equatorial mount will be more expensive than an altazimuth mount.
3. Portability - If you can't lift it to carry to a remote site, or to your back yard, then you probably won't use it. Remember it needs to fit into your vehicle. No matter how nice the telescope is, if it is not used, it is a waste.

Another, secondary consideration, is the mount. You should probably start out with a variation of the Altazimuth mount called a Dobsonian mount. This is simple, (a box with a tube attached) and is very portable.

I suggest that you attend a few star parties where you can sample several types of telescopes and talk with their owners. Ask the owner about the telescope and why he or she chose that particular 'scope. Talk with them about price and portability.

Take a look at these links about buying a first telescope: (while you are there browse around and check out telescopes and prices).

• Orion Telescope's Orion Telescope.
• Sky & Telescope's "How To Start Right in Astronomy" by Alan MacRobert. Catch this article. It is a good guide.
• Astronomy Magazine
• Visit the Astronomy Mall and visit some of the vendors there, to get a feel for prices, options, mounts, etc. No need to buy, just browse. Many of the companies that advertise in Sky & Telescope Magazine and Astronomy Magazine are here.
• Visit Celestron's page about Telescope Basics. a complete guide to telescopes. While there, check out their Dobsonian telescopes called "Star Hoppers" ©. I have seen some of these and they are good beginner's 'scopes.
• See the Meade ETX series of telescopes ETX-90EC and others The are a good all around telescope for beginners.

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