New to Astronomy? 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 ($15 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, and you will continue to use them even after you’ve bought a telescope. However, if you have your heart set on a telescope then, again if you’re just starting out, I would recommend a 6″ or 8″ Newtonian telescope utilizing Dobsonian characteristics or more simply put a “Dobsonian telescope.” You are probably saying “so what does that mean?” Well, Dobsonian telescopes like the one pictured below are very easy to setup and use, cost less than more complicated designs and computerized models and are perfectly suited for showing all types of objects in the night sky if you are just starting out in the hobby. While the prices have fallen over the years for computerized telescopes the “Dob” is still a great first choice.

The Dobsonian’s draw backs include their bulkiness as they get bigger in size (however 6″ and 8″ dob’s are very easy to manage and portable) and the scopes have no clock drive (motor drive) to track an object across the sky but 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 a Dobsonian telescope gives you the biggest bang for your buck allowing for larger aperture (bigger mirror)  for the least amount of money. They are easy to setup and use and are perfect for newcomers to the hobby.

In today’s world we all have cellphones. The processing power of these devices eclipses the onboard computer that was on the Apollo 11 spacecraft that got us to the Moon. So, while the Dob telescope is my first choice for newbies mainly because of the aforementioned stuff but also because it forces you to learn the night sky manually.

However, my second choice would be the Celestron StarSense Explorer series telescopes and more properly the Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ Newtonian telescope. This scope and all the scopes in the StarSense Explorer line utilize your smartphone, a docking station on the telescope itself and a Celestron App to aid you in finding objects easily in the sky. This is a super powerful combination in a light-weight, easily transportable package that is fun and easy to use. You can’t beat that. Check out the video above.

While those are my two recommendations for first time telescope buyers just getting into the hobby, you might be wanting to taking it a step further and really investigate what telescope is best for you. That’s great. Just remember to 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 variety of telescopes and mounts.

Think about what you want to do with the scope and how you’ll use it (visual observations only, planetary, deep sky, solar observing, astrophotography, CCD/CMOS imaging etc.) because this will help determine the type of scope that is right for you. Finally, resist the temptation to rush out and buy a telescope from an outdoors, discount super store or electronics warehouse. Take your time, learn the night sky and about telescopes in general before you make your purchase. When you are ready to buy a telescope, seek out reputable manufactures such as Celestron, Meade, Orion, Sky-Watcher, Expore Scientific. Williams Optics, Stellarvue, etc.

Additionally, who you purchase your new telescope and accessories from is very important as well. Those dealers who are worth their salt will go out of their way to ensure you are satisfied by thoroughly answering your questions and providing suggestions before and after the sale. I have had very good experiences buying from the following outlets: High Point Scientific (New Jersey),  Astronomics (Oklahoma), Orion Telescopes and Binoculars (California) and OPT (California).

This is also a good time to mention that if you can make it to their showroom and visit with sales reps then by all means do so. Nothing compares to personal attention when deciding on what could be a very large purchase. Ask plenty of questions and if you are not getting the attention you deserve or your questions answered satisfactory then move on to another dealer. If not, and you are going to mail order your telescope then it would not hurt to minimize the distance between you and the dealer. Shipping delicate instruments that have mirrors and lenses is not always conducive to a happy ending. I know as I’ve have had the unfortunate experience of having equipment damaged in transit.

If you are looking to buy your first telescope and would like more information before making your purchase then check out the Choosing your first telescope article on Sky & Telescope’s web site. This article discusses the different types of scopes and the common pitfalls to avoid when you are making your first purchase.

Good luck and clear skies!

Scott