Buying a Telescope for a New Amateur Astronomer

Buying a Telescope and don’t know where to Start?

The process of Buying a Telescope is one of the more difficult tasks for people just getting into astronomy. It’s challenging to try to figure out what features and options would be best.

Selecting the proper telescope is really an important decision to make, because a great first scope can really kickstart a wonderful lifelong hobby. I get asked about this a lot because it can be a complicated decision. But no worries – we’ve got you covered.

The Episodes

There are two episodes of Star Hopping in which I covered this interesting topic. I’d recommend that you watch Episode 1 first, as it gives you the background to help you make your decision on what telescope to select. Just click on the movie to play it – you can select full screen if you’d like.


Episode 1 – Three Variables to Consider

In the first I discuss the three main variables that you need to consider when buying a telescope. These variables will drive the features you’ll need to consider in selecting a telescope that will fit your needs.


Episode 2 – Recommendations of Telescopes to Buy

In the second episode I briefly discuss the different types of telescope mounts and the advantages and disadvantages of each. Then we look at some great telescopes that I recommend in several price ranges.

 

 

This episode is now outdated, because some of the main companies and products that I refer are now out of business (Orion Telescope Center).

 

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