Stargazing Telescopes 101: Intro Guide For Beginners Under $500

[NATURE.M]

Hi, I am interested in purchasing a telescope, although I am not very familiar with the parts and overall structure. introductory feedback, and recommendations would be much appreciated, and also I don't want a budget of $500 (preferably price range $350-$450).

 

[Mordred]

I would look through this sticky thread its got ton of information on telescopes

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=391086

 

[Bobbywhy]

Here is a list of many articles about selecting/buying your first telescope:
http://www.skyandtelescope.com/equipment/basics

 

[NATURE.M]

thanks for the links, and in your personal opinion do you believe vixons are good for beginners.
Specifically,Vixen A80Mf Telescope & Porta II Mount

 

[Chronos]

Vixen are among a number of well regarded brands. I think an 80mm APO refractor is an excellent choice for a beginner scope. I personally like the orion short tube 80 [ST80], which only runs around $120. A suitable mount will double the price, but, still be within your budget. If you decide to move up to a bigger scope, it will remain useful as a finder scope [which explains why I prefer short focal length APO's for intro astronomy]. Plus, the wide field views are simply amazing.

 

[NATURE.M]

Thanks for the suggestion.
I feel like I've really narrowed my selection down to
a.Vixen Optics R130Sf w/ Porta II Mount
b.ORION SpaceProbe 130ST Equatorial Reflector Telescope
I've heard that equatorial mount is a bit more challenging for beginners, and that Vixen is relatively easier. Any recommendations?

 

[Chronos]

For a starter scope, a simple altazimuth mount will be easier to master - and less expensive. It's the best way to enter the hobby world of astronomy. Get some sky charts and star hop your way across the sky. Once you get the hang of that you will be hankering for a bigger scope, and a goto mount. Star hopping is really tedious and boring once you get the hang of it.

 

[russ_watters]

I always disagree with the alt-az recommendation. For following a planet, an EQ is a big help.

 

[NATURE.M]

I always disagree with the alt-az recommendation. For following a planet, an EQ is a big help.

Of the options I listed what can you recommend/or any feedback??
a.Vixen Optics R130Sf w/ Porta II Mount
b.ORION SpaceProbe 130ST Equatorial Reflector Telescope

 

[davenn]

I always disagree with the alt-az recommendation. For following a planet, an EQ is a big help.

Thats true in most cases
but for a beginner an equatorial mount is a nightmare to use ;)

Dave

 

[NATURE.M]

Hi davenn can you please provide feedback on the two telescopes I mentioned.

 

[russ_watters]

Thats true in most cases
but for a beginner an equatorial mount is a nightmare to use ;)

Dave

My dad bought me my first scope (an alt-az) for Christmas when I was a kid and after using it once, we both agreed it was a mistake and he got me a free upgrade.

 

[russ_watters]

Of the options I listed what can you recommend/or any feedback??
a.Vixen Optics R130Sf w/ Porta II Mount
b.ORION SpaceProbe 130ST Equatorial Reflector Telescope

Vixen scopes have an excellent reputation for high-end quality, but it probably makes their beginner scopes more money than they are worth. That scope costs a lot of money for what you are getting. Orions are the Chevy of telescopes and for a beginner, it is a good bang for the buck, so that is what I recommend. Plus, you'll want to save some money for accessories.

 

[mheslep]

My dad bought me my first scope (an alt-az) for Christmas when I was a kid ...

What age? I think I'll do the same.

 

[russ_watters]

What age? I think I'll do the same.

Not sure. 14 or 15, maybe.

 

[Bobbywhy]

I also cast my preference for the Orion.

Bobbywhy