HELP Im new to this and want some advise

[chuniverse (Cam Thorning)]

Hi,

Im new to this and i wanted people thoughts on which telescope would be best for me. i want something that will grow with me as i learn more. I have been looking at a number of reflector telescopes and i think i like the sound of these two below from what the reviews say. What are peoples thoughts of which would be best for me!

Celestron PowerSeeker 114EQ Reflector Telescope
Celestron AstroMaster 114EQ Reflector Telescope

[acropolite (Phil)]

I wouldn't recommend either, with Telscopes Bigger really is better, IMO you would be far better off with at least an 8 inch (200mm) dob.

[barx1963 (Malcolm)]

Agree
EQ mounts on beginners scopes are usually a bad idea. A simple dob mount is the best way to get the most aperture for your dollars, easy to setup, easy to use, easy to find objects.

I had a similar scope and it was a lesson in frustration. Once I switched to an 8" dob, I didn't look back!

Malcolm

[jjjnettie (Jeanette)]

I totally agree. 114mm is tiny.
Go the 8" or 10" dob. They will keep you happy for many years to come and aren't all that expensive. If you save up a little bit, you could get the goto version.

[jjjnettie (Jeanette)]

Where abouts do you live Cam?
There should be an astro society near you. You can attend an open night and get an idea of the different telescopes available. They might even have a loaner scope that, for a very small fee, you can borrow for a little while. Take it home, see if it's right for you. It may well save you hundreds of dollars.

[noeyedeer (Matt)]

I have both a 114 Meade on a crap eq1 mount and a 10" dob. the dob wins hands down. I've found more objects with the dob in 3 months then I did with a year with the Meade 114. the non complex alt-az setup with the dob makes it simple for anyone to place it and to view ... without aligning etc which you will have to do with an eq.

spend the extra and get a 6-10 inch dob.

matt

ps.. the most frustrating part with the Meade was tightening the locking screws on the object and then having to refind it. it gave good views of planets and the moon and clusters but that's about it ...mine wasn't a goto

[chuniverse (Cam Thorning)]

I live on the Central coast NSW