Hey guys/girls,
I have been following these forums for a while and trying to gather as much info as I can about purchasing my first scope. One thing I have come to realize is that aperture rules and the best bang for your buck is a dobsonian.
I was looking at purchasing an 8 inch dobsonian, however I am wondering If I should go for the
Celestron NexStar 6SE. I really like the idea of having the ability to take photos of the Moon/planets and some DSO's.
I have a few questions about the 6SE. Can you use it without power? I don't want to rely on batteries to keep it going, however I have noticed you can get some kind of battery pack instead...how much do they go for?
I live in an urban area with plenty of light pollution, what will the difference be between an 8 inch dob and a 6SE? I understand the 8 inch will take in more light but will the Cassegrain optics make up the difference with regards to sharpness and contrast?
I don't want to be spending more than $1599 on my first scope. So I understand that if I was to purchase the 6SE I would be using it as is for a while before I go out and spend money on EP's etc...
I'm guessing my other option is to by the dob and later on buy a mount that can support it for AP?
Any thoughts would be appreciated.
Celestron 6SE $1599
8 inch Dob from Bintel $499
Thanks in advance,
Blackcat