Purchasing the right first telescope
Almost 50 years ago I bought my first telescope and I made the same mistake then that most people are still making today because unfortunately, there are still a lot of poor choices screaming for attention in local discount stores. Folks end up buying something that looks good, but ends up being a waste of money and worse, frustrates the new astronomy enthusiast because they're hard to use. I often wonder how many people quickly lose interest in this wonderful hobby because they started with a telescope that was difficult touse.
You don't have to be a telescope expert to make the right decision, nor do you need a lot of technical knowledge. But it helps to understand how telescopes really are used and where you can find reasonable quality, inexpensive telescopes that are just right for the amateur astronomer just starting out. To this end, I decided to try a public program at the Westport Library. I don;t have a clue if anyone will show up, but I'll be there with four examples - mostly good - and plenty of handouts to guide people in the right direction. here's the flyer I prepared for this event.
How to Purchase
the RIGHT
First Telescope
Thursday, November 17, 2005
Westport Library 7 - 8 pm
Four inexpensive telescopes, not commonly seen in stores, will be available for you to examine.
Whether purchasing a first astronomical telescope for yourself or as a gift, it’s easy to make the wrong choice. This is not only a waste of money, but worse, can discourage the very astronomical interests you wish to nurture.
This one-hour telescope discussion and demonstration will show you:
- How telescope power is frequently misleading
- What the numbers really mean and which numbers are important
- Three major telescope types
- Why telescope mounts are critical
- Three different telescope mounts
- Where to buy both new and used telescopes
The goal: To help you make a telescope purchasing decision that doesn’t break the bank, nor the spirit of the budding astronomer.
The presenter, Greg Stone, is an experienced amateur astronomer and owner of Driftway Observatory, a modest, home observatory. optimized for sharing the astronomical experience. Greg Stone’s articles on astronomy have appeared in several publications including Popular Science, Boys’ Life, Yankee and The NewYork Times. He has no connection with any telescope company, nor is he in anyway involved in the sale of telescopes.