Funkii Munkii

So I am at the point where I'm going to get myself one after months of thinking and posting about it.

Reflecting or Refracting??

What's the difference and what is better for the untrained amateur.

Cheers

TonyG

Telescopes 101.

A refracting telescope has a large lens at one end used to collect light.
A reflecting telescope uses a large mirror to collect the light. The two main types are Newtonian, and Schmidt-Cassegrain.

I'd look at reflectors as they tend to be a bit more plentiful, and are a bit cheaper for the same performance. Don't go for anything smaller than four inches, and if you see any adverts which make huge claims, avoid them like the plague. Astronomy's a bit like owning a Scooby though - there's loads of accessories, and if you get hooked bigtime, you'll soon be after 'more power'. What are you going to be looking at? Feel free to email me if you want more info.

Funkii Munkii

Thanks for the info Tony

I was going for 4.5" Reflector, Tasco jobbie, nothing special, I just want to have a peep at the stars, moon and planets on the odd clear evening, I doubt it will be a big time hobby, there isnt the time with a 7 month old scurrying about the place LOL.

I see they also do computerised reflectors with 10,000 pre designated "sights", is this a gimmick or a nice tool for lazy people??

Cheers

Dave