[Thresh (Paul)]

Hi all,

Until about 8 years ago, I use to love watching the heavens. However my telescope was stolen and being a poor high school student, I couldn't afford to get it replaced. The years have gone by and now the itch has overcome me and I want to get back into it all.

I am now looking at getting a semi-decent telescope for around the $500 - $700 range that would allow me to view other planets and maybe the odd Deep Space Object or two (Primarily comets as they come around and possible galaxies if the price and telescope allows it).

I like the dobson 8" scope but in all honesty, it seems like I would need a place to sit it and at that cost, it seems very basic.

What has been recommended to me, is the Celestron AstroMaster 130EQ. It fits my budget and appears to be of a good build and quality. Reviews point to it being a good telescope aswell. But before I go and waste my hard earned cash on it, I would like to know the thoughts of fellow budding astronomers out there! Some facts:

- I will primarily be doing backyard gazing. If a dobson is most recommended, it'd probably go onto a picnic table I can move around

- I live in Bayswater, Victoria. Out in the east. I don't know how much light-pollution will be there

- I won't be taking photos.

- Given how close I am to Mt Dandenong, I will probably head out there on weekends to gaze, so it needs to be easy to pack into the boot of a car (Mid-sized)

If a dobson is the way to go, what would be recommended? If some accessories for a beginner are recommended, what would they be?

Thanks in advance!