Re: OT: Telescopes
- From: "heycarnut" <heycarnut@xxxxxxxxx>
- Date: 26 Nov 2005 21:29:20 -0800
No - a reflector isn't 'better', anymore than a refractor is 'better'.
Each has it's place. You can, in general, get a larger reflector vs
refractor for the same $, with all else being equal, because large
lenses are much harder to produce than large mirros. Some will argue
that refractors must be better because they have nothing in the light
path, unlike most reflectors and compound (like Meade, Questar) scopes,
but this is also naive - a 'central obstruction', as it is called, can
actually benefit some kinds of observing. The suggestions to hook up
with local amateurs is a great idea - but like most anything, everyone
will have an opinion based on personal biases and experiences that may
not even apply to you. See if there are any 'star parties' in your area
- you can look on line, or in Sky & Telescope or Astronomy magazine.
You can go and see, touch, use different scopes and get an idea of what
might fit you best. Buy used if this is OK by you -you can find many
bargains (ebay, astromart on line, etc.) where someone bought something
they really never used, and they want to get rid of it. This way, if it
doesnt fit your needs, you stand to lose minimal, if any, $ on the
scope. I once bought a telescope setup loaded with goodies that had
been used TWICE, for $2500 - the original owner paid $11000+, and just
wanted it gone. I gave it to a local school since I alread had a larger
model from the same company, but it is an example of the kind of deals
that aren't that hard to find in the used market.
Rob
.
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