Newbie question

[Simmo74]

Hi, newbie here . Just after some info on the Starview 150eq . I have an opportunity to buy a second hand one that is basically brand new inc some extras for $270aud , wondering if its a good starting point? Unfortunately cannot afford a Dobsonion ...

[Malcolm]

If I were you, I'd be saving a bit more and look for a secondhand dob. It's a good beginners scope, but you'd like a dob with more aperture better.

[Simmo74]

Sounds good Malcom but i could be waiting a very long time , already been looking for 2 months , not alot here in Perth ..? Aslo don't want to spend over $500 on something I'll probably use only a few times a year.

[sil]

Great looking scope, will look good in the corner of the lounge room because you wont use it more than once. Seriously a dob is what you need and easy found in your budget. A dob is far more practical and better views. I can't think of a single reason any newbie would enjoy the Starview 150EQ as a first scope and you havent considered WHY its such a bargain? Another clueless newbie bought the wrong thing and just wants it out of their life as fast as possible.

[Simmo74]

and where would i find a second hand Dob for under $400 ????

[doppler]

Try gumtree "telescopes under miscellaneous goods", not much there at the moment but worth keeping an eye on.

Here's a 6" skywatcher dob new for $399 and in Perth
http://www.skywatchertelescopes.com.au/_p/prd1/1828112095/product/skywatcher-6%22-standard-dobsonian-sw580

[Simmo74]

Can you see just as much or more with the dob 6" or say the 150eq or a celestial astro 130eq ?

[Nab]

If you don't expect to do much observing you might be better off with a decent camera tripod and a pair of reasonable quality binoculars.
Cheers
Darren.

[doppler]

6" is 150mm so the views would be similar to both the other scopes. The dob is easier to use than an eq mounted scope and would be a bit better on the planets due to it's longer focal length. Of course a secondhand 8" dob would be even better and are usually around that price, but you would have to wait till one came along.