New guy needs a 'scope

Guest · Posted: Sat Apr 12, 2008 7:22 pm Post subject: New guy needs a 'scope

Hey all, im new to the boards and new to astronomy. Im looking for a decent scope in the $200-$300 range. I was looking at the meade telescopes they seem more universal and seem to have more accessories available for them.

I was looking at The Meade 114EQ ASTR and the Celestron AstroMaster 114EQ

Ive read these two are decent but you pretty much need to buy a new finderscope for a better quality.. any thoughts? I like the EQ mount more than others it just seems more user friendly. I dont mind if its computerized or manual, where Im stationed in South Dakota its 50/50 with clear skies, and little to no light pollution (especially if I drive up to Mt. Rushmore) so its a gamble but like I said manual or computerized i dont care, its more fun to learn how to navigate around.

Right now Im taking an astronomy class and it came with "TheSky" software so Im learning how to navigate my way around..thanks![/url]

Jne_K · Site Admin Joined: 24 Sep 2003 Posts: 4991

Hi

Good for you. Nice to see someone who isn't afraid to tackle manual navigation.

Price is going to tell you more about quality than manufacturer's advertising. Both of these are going to be close in terms of optics and performance. Not really going to be a difference in terms of how you can accessorize.

Telescope size, in terms of the mirror, is more important. I would try to bump up to a larger scope, at least the Astromaster 130EQ. By reflector standards, a 114mm scope is pretty small.

For the basics and how to choose a telescope, see my article
How to choose the right telescope
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