Wondering about talking telescopes for beginner?

[ManintheMoon]

Hi again

I'm just checking in (we're not home yet) after visiting a shop in Adelaide who told me about the Bushnell talking telescopes.

They sound like a good idea for someone who doesn't know much about the night sky (like me!) and I was wondering what you thought about them?

I found this one which fits my budget.

http://www.alloptics.com.au/products/details.asp?id=AO-3004

We'll be home on the weekend so I can finally get to spend some more time here!

Thank you for any help.

Maninthemoon

[dannat]

i havn't used the bushnell refractor - but took out a mak for a quick go & the mount especially & the scope/eyepieces stank

[mental4astro]

Interesting concept, a talking telescope. I'm waiting for one that'll make me coffee- I'll be the first to line up for that one.

It is a very little scope with a big price tag. You can download a free program called 'Stellarium'. All the info noted on the link is available, and more. This leaves money free to get a bigger scope to better see what is up there. At 70mm you are better of with binoculars than a scope in this size, in my humble opinion. It really is too small. Ok for little kids but you are in only for disappointment.

6" dobs are available for the same price from Andrews. Here is some real grunt. Combined with Stellarium & you have a powerful package. Much better quality scope, mount & eyepieces than would be available with this scope.

Goto/talking concept is great, but nothing will overcome apeture. Size is everything with this hobby.

[mental4astro]

Stellarium download link:

http://www.stellarium.org/

[ManintheMoon]

OK Thanks for that info. I will keep looking/saving for an 8" dob like Paul suggested before!

Mum said we can download stellarium when we are on unlimited MB back home but it looks really cool!

Thanks for that!

Maninthemoon