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Choosing a Telescope

What are the most important characteristics to look for when buying a telescope? What's the difference between Magnification and Objective Lens Diameter? How should the choice differ depending on what the user wants to look at?



Member advice on Choosing a Telescope  
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by Pirich

Pirich is a Top Reviewer on Epinions 		Jul 28 '03 The Art of Observing Part 2- Dimmer Objects
Deep space objects are not what the photos show, but there are good reasons to get a look.... read full review 		Very Helpful
by Pirich

Pirich is a Top Reviewer on Epinions 		Jul 19 '03 The Art of Observing Part 1- bright objects [Mars updated 8/24/03]
Astronomy is one of the few adventures you can have from your back yard. ... read full review 		Very Helpful
by Pirich

Pirich is a Top Reviewer on Epinions 		Sep 24 '05 Leaving New Orleans
This is something I had to write. I hope it can bring understanding.... read full review 		Very Helpful
by Pirich

Pirich is a Top Reviewer on Epinions 		Jul 06 '00 Picking a Telescope [Updated April 13, 2007]
Research online, then go see and use some scopes yourself. Observing events are held all over the country; they are a chance to see what you like before you buy.... read full review 		Very Helpful
by Pirich

Pirich is a Top Reviewer on Epinions 		Sep 21 '00 Rich's Telescope Primer Part 2
This is the second part of an equipment overview. The intent is to have a summary of what is in the market today.... read full review 		Very Helpful
by Pirich

Pirich is a Top Reviewer on Epinions 		Sep 21 '00 Rich's Telescope Primer Part 1
Telescopes have strengths and weaknesses depending on their design. No one type excels at every purpose, but good examples of the main types are immediately available.... read full review 		Very Helpful
by jnoschese
 Apr 18 '03 Telescope 101 and a little more
Take your time, invest more in eyepieces then your first scope, and get a good pair of binoculars first... read full review 		Very Helpful
by J.A.Keirns
 Jul 07 '00 I Didn't Need a Meade
... read full review 		Very Helpful
by aerowood
 Apr 09 '01 Don't Buy a Child a Telescope!
Choose binoculars and a good book to learn a bit about astronomy before purchasing a department or camera store telescope under US$200, or a computerized GOTO telescope for children.... read full review 		Very Helpful
by dkaakd
 Feb 20 '01 Right scope for the right price
If cost is a factor, buy a used scope with a good long focal length and as large an aperture as you can afford.... read full review 		Very Helpful
by starchaser
 Jun 19 '00 "When should I buy a telescope for my child?"
... read full review 		Very Helpful
by rdmonroe
 Jun 21 '00 Magnification vs. Aperture
... read full review 		Very Helpful
by Steadicam
 Mar 15 '01 Don't let marketing depts. sell you on scope! Part 1
For space buy the largest aperture telescope you can afford. For terrestrial viewing buy the best optics you can afford.... read full review 		Very Helpful
by cottagecrafts
 Oct 20 '01 Impressive Telescopes
Large apertures and quality optics are what really counts. Fancy electronics will not enhance your viewing experience.... read full review 		Somewhat Helpful
   

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