1st time telescope purchase

LeonLittle · Joined: 13 Nov 2007 Posts: 1

I am considering the orion dobsonian xt 4.5. , but am thinking for only 150 I can get a meade DS2114AT-TC and a computer to help with finding things in the city.

Would the view of objects be very similiar with those products? Or if you haven't looked throught the orion, would the view be that much different with a 6" celestron dobsonian? Thanks, Leon

Jne_K · Site Admin Joined: 24 Sep 2003 Posts: 5509

Hi

The main factor in telescope performance is still aperture - size of the lens or mirror. All else equal, the bigger scope wins. If it's a matter of performance, go with the 6"

A computer does make navigation easier for a beginner and most are relatively simple to get set up and aligned. This is the most practical option for a light polluted area, since learning to navigate manually is tough to do when you can't see a lot of guide stars. Meade and Celestron both make good computers. If you like computers and are technically inlcined, this is the way to go.

On the other hand, you can buy a bigger scope for your dollar with a manual scope, since you are not buying a computer. Learning to navigate the old fashioned way takes more initiative and effort and it is slower, but in many ways more enjoyable. It is one of the things I most enjoy about astronomy. It is also quite practical if you observe from a dark or mildly light polluted site.
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