Help needed with the purchase of a telescope

darealtulip

Hello there,

I hope you all could help me with some advice on what telescope to buy.

I am an absolute novice and don't know the difference between the long thin telescopes and the small fat ones.

I would like a telescope for me and my 7 year old son. We have a small budget and basically want to see the planets of our solar system.

We live in a urban area.

These are the telescopes that were advised and I am thinking of buying the 70 euro one as I am not sure how often we use it and I thought we can always upgrade if the interest is really there.

http://www.ktectelescopes.ie/By-Manufacturer/Skywatcher/Skywatcher-Tabletop-Telescopes/Skywatcher-Heritage-76-Mini-Dobsonian-Telescope.html

http://www.ktectelescopes.ie/By-Manufacturer/Skywatcher/Skywatcher-Tabletop-Telescopes/Skywatcher-Heritage-130P-FlexTube-Dobsonian-Telescope.html

What are the opinions of the experts here on this forum?

Justin1982

Take a look at the sticky post. Its worth spending some time reading about the different types of telescopes before buying one.

Also what is your budget?

Kencollins

Hi there,

I would avoid the smaller one in your links. It has a very small mirror in it, and you will not be able to see any detail on the planets. Your son will get very disheartened at just seeing "bigger" spots of light!

I have one that is similar to the second link for sale in Limerick. The one I am selling has a higher spec than the link one, as it is motor driven.(Not goto, but motor tracking)

Here is my add:

http://www.adverts.ie/telescopes-binoculars/sky-watcher-5-motor-driven-telescope/2031698

If you were interested I would let it go for €150, but by all means ask for advice on here as to whether it would be suitable for your needs!

Ken