Telescopes

The telescopes that I currently own include a 10" Meade LXD55 Schmidt-Newtonian a Celestron Super C8+ Schmidt-Cassegrain a 6" Celestron Starhopper Dobsonian Reflector and 3.5" Meade ETX-90RA Maksutov-Cassegrain and a 3" Celestron FirstScope Dobsonian Reflector.

The SN10 is my primary telescope. It's fast optics and goto mount make it a pleasure to use. I really love the star rich, wide-field views this scope provides under a dark sky. I use the C8 mostly for binoviewing the planets and the Moon. I often take the StarHopper 6 to star parties and find myself using it in the backyard too. The 3.5" Meade ETX is a terrific little telescope with fantastic optics. It's portability makes this a grab and go scope for observing eclipses. Not only is this scope ultra portable but it's quick and easy to set up too.

Prior to acquiring the SN10, C8, Starhopper 6 and ETX I owned an Orion 12.5" Deep Space Explorer Dobsonian and a small refractor, also from Orion. Click on the links or telescope images below for pictures, details and specs on each of the telescopes listed.

Meade LXD55 10" Schmidt-Newtonian	Meade ETX-90RA Maksutov-Cassegrain
Celestron Super C8+ Schmidt-Cassegrain	Celestron Starhopper 6" Dobsonian
Celestron FirstScope 3" Dobsonian	Orion 12.5" Deep Space Explorer Dobsonian
Orion 60mm Sky Explorer II Refractor

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Purchasing a Telescope?

If you are just getting into astronomy and don't know your way around the night sky that well or at all then I would highly recommend getting a pair of good binoculars ($75 - $150) and a planisphere ($10 at your local book store) and then spend some time learning your way around the night sky. Binoculars will show you a ton of stuff in the sky at a fraction of the cost of buying a telescope. However, if you have your heart set on a telescope then, again if your just starting out, I would recommend a 6" or 8" Dobsonian telescope. These scopes are easy to use, cost less and are perfect for folks just getting started. The Dobsonian's draw backs include their bulkier size and the scopes have no clock drive to track an object (no motor drive). While Dobsonians are usually bulkier in size the 6" and 8" scopes are very portable and you certainly don't have to have a motor driven telescope to enjoy the night sky. To track objects you simply manually nudge the scope every minute or so to keep the object in the center of the eyepiece. In my opinion the Dobsonians give you the biggest bang for your buck and as I mentioned above are perfect for newcomers to the hobby.

Purchasing a telescope or a pair of binoculars is easy! The hard part is choosing one that's right for you. Take your time and look through other peoples telescopes and talk to them about their experiences with their telescope. You can do this by attending star parties or seeking out your local astronomy club. This way you'll get a good idea of what to expect from a telescope. Think about what you want to do with the scope (visual observations, astrophotography, CCD imaging) because this will help determine the type that is right for you. Finally, don't rush out and buy a telescope from a discount super store or electronics warehouse. Take the time to learn the night sky and about telescopes in general before you purchase. When you are ready to buy a telescope, seek out reputable manufactures such as Celestron, Meade or Orion.

If you are looking to buy your first telescope and would like more information before making your purchase then check out First-Telescope.com. Be sure to read through the "How to Pick a Telescope" section of that web site before buying your scope. First Telescope.com also offers a wide range of quality, introductory telescopes and all are priced under $500. Good luck and clear skies!