Finding Better Space Telescopes
Simple used telescopes can be costly so you need to know where to shop and what to look for. However, getting a glimpse into the heavens doesn’t have to carry an astronomical price! Yet inexperienced, amateur astronomy buffs can get tricked into buying expensive equipment and accessories that they don’t need.
Telescopes can be very expensive, so before you invest in one, ask yourself why you want one and how serious you are about exploring astronomy. If it’s going to be a casual hobby, then there’s really no need to buy a high end telescope with lots of expensive accessories. You also have to evaluate your needs.
telescopes
A local astronomy club can help you with this. For example, in what kind of environment will you be using the telescope? Will you need to assemble and dismantle it frequently as you go from location to location?
Do you have the option of renting a telescope instead of buying one? Costly extras like fancy eyepieces and an electric focuser really aren’t important.
Most people interested in space telescope think that magnifying power should be their prime concern but that’s actually not true. This is why it’s so important that you learn telescope terminology before you get to a store. An eyepiece is really all you need to improve a telescope’s magnification.
To calculate the telescope’s maximum useful magnification, multiply the size of the lens or mirror in inches by 50. For example, a 4-inch telescope can be used with eyepieces that provide up to about 200 times the intensification. An 8-inch telescope’s highest useful magnification is 400 x, and so on.
telescope accessories
To get an idea of the kind of magnification you want, take a look through as many different eyepieces as you can. Consulting astronomy clubs or a planetarium are great ways to uncover more information about cost, maintenance and accessories.
As a consumer, you should be well informed before you even go into a store. Dealers make a lot of money by convincing inexperienced amateurs to purchase expensive scope accessories that they don’t need.
Most experienced stargazers do not recommend buying department store brands either. To save yourself money, buy a smaller model to learn on. If you find that you use the telescope regularly and need a more powerful piece of equipment, then you will be more informed about making a larger and more expensive purchase.
Used telescopes are also a good option. For example, if you’ve joined an astronomy club, then you may be able to purchase a used telescope from someone looking to upgrade. Some clubs also rent telescopes for a small fee. However, remember that buying a used telescope usually means you won’t get a warranty.
telescope science
For the telescope casual user, bigger is not necessarily better. While a bigger telescope will give you more power, it may not be practical for someone who wants to go from location to location. A smaller piece of equipment that is easy to transport and use is actually better for beginners because they can concentrate more on the stars and less on the equipment.
For astronomy amateurs, there really is no need to splash out on an expensive piece of equipment. As with any investment, do your homework, read some telescope reviews, examine several models, and make sure you get a good warranty.
