Hi from another new starter

[programmer]

Hi all.. recently joined the fine ranks of IIS and I'm looking forward to getting back into some stargazing after about *cough* 30 years *cough* hiatus. I've only ever dabbled, so am on a big learning curve, but have already read lots of fine info and articles on this site, bought some mags, etc. etc.

I've been going round in circles on which telescope to buy, but at this point it's looking like an 8 or 10 inch Dobsonian, popular choices on here as I've seen. Yes budget is an issue at this point, so bang for buck is important to me.

Front runner is a Bintel BT-202 8" Premium Dobsonian listed as $549 at Bintel, but was wondering if a Mead Lightbridge Deluxe 8" at $749 was worth the extra 30%-odd.

I'm after a telescope that will happily show me moon, planets and deep space objects while not necessarily excelling at all of these. I'm *thinking* it might get tossed in the car along with the family on the odd trip, so size and robustness are issues. I'm thinking 10" would be too big ... Also would like to motorise/automate down the track and perhaps try some astrophotography but the latter is probably a pipe dream.

Haven't ruled out a 'regular' newt either, e.g. Bintel BT-200EQ (or 150EQ) Deluxe at $799 and $579 respectively... and still open to all other suggestions.

Here's to many more posts on IIS :D

[iceman]

Hi and welcome to IceInSpace!

Sounds like you're on the right track. For what you describe, an 8" dob would be perfect for you. You can add an ArgoNavis later on to help you find objects easier, and you can add an EQ6 mount later for photography as well.

I'm not a fan of EQ mounted newts for visual observing, but for photography they're absolutely great!

Is the lightbridge better than the solid tube? It really depends on the individual. If you plan to travel with it, the lightbridge breaks down a bit smaller and might be easier to fit in the car. But if you want to do photography and put it on an EQ mount, then you can't do that with a lightbridge and you'd need the solid tube version.

Keep asking questions!

[programmer]

Thanks iceman.. have read your beginner's stickies (twice). Good angle to come from, criticizing each of your scopes.. love it. Not a perspective a noob will often hear, I'm sure.

I think so. Even if it doesn't get tracked around much in the car (and in reality it probably won't) I think the 8" is a big enough bucket for my first foray!

Yes the ArgoNavis is something I can see myself doing, even if I never get around to doing the photography thing.

I'm going towards the solid tube Bintel for several reasons, not just cost. I notice you didn't say quality of construction, optics, etc. is what differentiates the Bintel vs the Meade, more the practicality.

You know I will :) Thanks to all on IIS who support me and the other beginners!

[Meadehead]

Hi Programmer.

:welcome:

[astro_nutt]

Hi programmer and welcome to IIS..
I brought a Saxon 8" dob some years ago as my first "big" scope..the images it provided were amazing..I have since moved up to a larger scope and sold the 8" to a friend who is still enjoying the portrability and ease of use..whatever you choose..enjoy!!
Cheers!

[Ric]

Welcome to IIS Programmer, hope you have a great here.

Cheers

[erick]

Hi there programmer!

I have the Bintel BT-202 8" Premium Dobsonian, with a few modifications made now. If you want to have a look at it and/or through it, send me a Private Message and we'll arrange to do so.

Eric :)

[leon]

Hi Programmer, welcome, you will be happy here, best place to learn and enjoy our wonderful sport.

Leon

[programmer]

Thanks for the welcomes..
erick that's a great offer, will certainly let you know! You're just around the corner too.
Cheers.