My first post and just purchased a telescope!

[prova]

This is my first post and thought I'd say Hello!

I've always wanted to get into astronomy but one of those things that have eluded me until 2 weeks ago when I receive a Celestron 130mm Reflector on an EQ mount as a gift!

Unfortunately I had to return it as it was faulty but after speaking with Steve at myAstroshop and doing some homework I now have a SkyWatcher SW600 200mm 8" Reflector on an EQ mount on it's way and was hoping that anyone else with a similar scope can give their opinions and well as any useful beginner tips..

Cheers

[DJVege]

Hey dude! :welcome:

I'm still a n00b at this, but you're going to see LOTS with that scope!!! :thumbsup:

[iceman]

Hi Prova, welcome to IceInSpace!

The 8" newt is tonnes better than the small 5" newt you received as a gift. It's a blessing that it was faulty :)

Forum member "ving" has an 8" scope on an EQ mount, and he loves it. It's great for both visual, and basic astrophotography if you want to get into that in future.

EQ mounts can be quite tricky to come to terms with in the beginning, and with a newt, the eyepiece can end up in weird positions depending on where the scope is pointing so you may need a step ladder, and you may at times need to rotate the scope in its rings to get the eyepiece into a more comfortable viewing position.

You'll also need things like:
a) comfortable observing chair
b) planisphere/star chart
c) red light torch

I'm sure you'll get some eyepieces with the scope which will get you by for a while, but in future it's likely you'll want to expand your eyepiece collection to include more focal lengths, or replace them with high quality eyepieces (they do make a significant difference).

I look forward to hearing your experiences and don't forget to keep asking questions!

[prova]

thanks for the warm welcome, I'll certainly post my initial thoughts once I have become comfortable with it ..

:)

[rmcpb]

Prova,

Nothing more to add except welcome to IIS :)