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Thats great your daughter is soo very interested. I just have a question that others might answer though as I have never had a dobsonian or newtonian telescope. I see them used by adults though often grumbling about the regular collimation (alignment of the two mirrors and focuser) needed. Also, the eyepiece location on newtonians or dobsonians requires you to view at the high end of the telescope tube, is this readily achievable by a 6 year old? Mark
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Collimation is a necessary evil, however once you know how, it can be accomplished in a couple of minutes. That said, I don't think you really need to collimate every time if your just doing casual observing.
As for height, I think up to an 8" dob 5 to 7 years will be able to view with both feet on the ground without the need for a stool. Anything closer to zenith then a stool is probably needed.
Whilst binoculars are great (10x42), most kids imo will struggle with its use and trying to fiddle in adjusting the focus. 10x42 (min. size) might be ideal for adults, older kids (10+) 5yrs with smalls hands are just going to struggle.
I think a 6-8" dob is the way to go, but the reality is:
1. they get wow factors with the moon and different phases.
2. they'll get a buzz out of Jup, Saturn, Mars, Venus - but don't expect mass colour.
3. stars will be just pin pricks, some will show colour.
4. Nebulas/galaxies - unless your in dark skies, its going to be a smudge at best - and for kids I don't believe they will get anything out of it.
I'm not trying to persuade you out of this great hobby and I think its fantastic a 5 yr is showing such interest. But kids are kids and they do get bored.
My suggestion if possible is to go to your local club if one is nearby and meet some people, look thru' some scopes to make sure it quenches your childs appetite and your own before committing.
At least with a refractor you it can double up for some terrestrial viewing. Just make sure you don't point it to the sun.
Good luck with the decision making
Norm