[BLiTZWiNG (Trent)]

Originally posted by wavelandscott
Blitz,

Welcome!

Thanks

What do you want to see?
moon, planets, DSO, birds, neighbors...

Moon, planets and deep space.. general interest here, so I think DS is going to be important. I don't want to look at my neighbours. I see them too close as it is :p

Do you want to do photography?

Possibly in the future if I like what I see.

Do you want mobility?

I think it's important, but it's not the highest priority.

Do you want "high tech hands free" or lower tech "roll up your sleeves and get dirty"?

As a computer tech / programmer, a bit of hands on doesn't bother me, as long as I know what I'm doing.

How much money are you willing/able to spend?

I'd like to keep it around $500, but of course that depends on what I see!

Depending on what you want to see and how you want to see it will determine what is best for you...

There are many many choices...and many of them are great!

The trick is to match your interests and needs to the right tool...

I am happy with my 8 inch Dob...it fits my needs and skill level but I want a night time visual scope that my 2 children can't tear up easily but can enjoy too. I don't want batteries and I don't mind an occassional tinker...

Well it looks like Ken has found me a nice 8" dob, so that could be where I start.

Good Luck...it is truly an addictive hobby...