Quote:
Originally Posted by EvolutionaryPS
Hi Martin, thanks budget is maybe $3,000
I'd use the telescope both at home and elsewhere eg a local park for less restricted sky view (perhaps less light from near by houses) and perhaps going further for darker skies (not sure where). I have a restricted view (30 - 50 degrees) between trees to the south in my back garden and an east to north west view to the north off an alfresco area upstairs at home or from the driveway although that view is impacted by the house. I'd need to carry the scope upstairs from garage to the alfresco balcony.
I think I'd start with visual astronomy to get used to it all but may look to AP later but I don't have a DSLR or anything that would take photos through a scope so that is another investment decision and so probably for later on. I am up near Hornsby in Sydney so light pollution is an issue. I also don't like the idea of having to make additional $,000s investment ie I'd like to have only one telescope for the foreseeable future. I just joined NSAS and will look to borrow their scopes once covid restrictions are relaxed and will look to do their beginners in the field program that they offer.
I'm interested in both DSO as well as planets, moon etc I guess in reality we all are.
Thanks again regards Paul
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Paul,
I think a full size dobsonian 6” or 8” would be to difficult to lug around in cars and up and down stairs etc.. plus you have a restricted view of the night sky from your yard so that will prompt you to drive to other better locations in your area.
A more portable visual telescope sounds like the way to go.
The Skywatcher 130mm 5” Virtuoso table top Goto reflector telescope will get you started in the hobby and ticks most or your boxes ( it’s not suitable for AP) but you mentioned that AP is something you would consider in the future. By the way , the Celestron Nexstar series of Goto telescopes are primarily for visual only , you can do a of bit planetary imaging but not deep sky imaging with these. If your serious about getting into AP and expanding in AP in the future I wouldn’t consider on of these telescopes, you need an EQ mount for sure. So if you purchased the Evolution you need another telescope dedicated for future AP that has an EQ ( equatorial) mount
The Skywatcher Virtuoso is a great little package for visual and totally portable
It has 130mm aperture, 650mm focal length so f5 focal ratio , powerful enough to see plenty of DSO objects , planets and moon
The telescope is Goto on an Az mount , had dual encoders so it doesn’t forget it’s position in the night sky , is wifi compatible and can be run off battery or mains , so great for jumping in the car and finding some good remote viewing locations
I think they are around $600 plus add some nice quality eye pieces, say 10mm , 20mm and 32mm Plössl or Superview , a few moon and planet filters and total cost would be around $1000 to $1200.
They are very popular and like most Astro gear these days you have to order and wait but you never know , Bintel or Oz scopes may have one in stock
That’s my recommendation based on your location and intentions in the immediate future to get you started with visual astronomy in the hobby with ease and portability
Al the best with your journey
Cheers
Martin