Hi beginners to Astronomy.
Before you race out and buy any cheap telescope or grab one from ebay, have a read of the info on this link.
http://www.atscope.com.au/visual.html
It describes the different types of telescopes, their uses, manufacturers, etc.
It may get a bit too technical in places for some people. If it does, just scroll through and find info that is handy to you.
It also shows the mistake many people make expecting the views through a telescope to be the same as on the glossy packaging. Compare advertising photos with real observations.
A very good idea is to sign up as a forum member in here at
Ice In Space and ask all the questions you can think of and we will do our best to guide you towards which is the best purchase of equipment for your type of viewing, which accessories will help and which ones to avoid, and generally help you find your way around the sky!
I hope it will help you, and welcome to Astronomy.
A Good Place to Start
