Re: Without breaking the bank

On 2005-11-02, Nobody <Nobodys@xxxxxxxx> wrote:
> Can anyone suggest an entry level telescope suitable for a child that
> will stimulate fledgling interest in astronomy and yet not be an
> expensive white elephant if having taken it out of the box a couple of
> times it never sees the light of day [ or should that be night ] again.

Be aware that most "entry level" telescopes will show you the Moon and
a few planets: Mars, Jupiter, Saturn when they're visible. Most
deep sky objects, like galaxies, nebulae and star clusters (with the
exception of the few brightest clusters) will be a deep disappointment
if they're visible at all.

You certainly won't get views like the photos from Hubble, or even
those available on the web.

Some people advocate binoculars as a cheap way of getting into
astronomy, plus if it doesn't work out you can still use them for
terrestrial views. If you consider this option you should understand
that holding a pair of bino's steady is very hard, and for a child
virtually impossible, without a tripod. So look at binoculars that
have a tripod mount point. These tend to be the more expensive pairs,
plus you'll need a tripod!

Have a google for "telescope buying guide site:.uk" for some
background info and check on ebay: apart from the junk, there are lots
of people selling kit that they bought in a fit of enthusiasm but
never used.

--
...........................................................................
.. never trust a man who, when left alone ...... Pete Lynch .
.. in a room with a tea cosy ...... Marlow, England .
.. doesn't try it on (Billy Connolly) .....................................

.

Relevant Pages

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    ... > Can anyone suggest an entry level telescope suitable for a child that ... > will stimulate fledgling interest in astronomy and yet not be an ...
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  • Without breaking the bank
    ... Can anyone suggest an entry level telescope suitable for a child that will stimulate fledgling interest in astronomy and yet not be an expensive white elephant if having taken it out of the box a couple of times it never sees the light of day again. ...
    (uk.sci.astronomy)