Ditto. I'll dig around and help steer you to a club. If you're interested in observational astronomy (and perhaps astrophotography, eventually), you have to get some guidance and experience what it's like to look through scopes of various apertures and focal lengths to see what appeals to you. You also need to experience the operation of various mounts, and learn what kind of storage/transportation requirements are associated with the 'scopes/mounts that you are most drawn to.chroot said:Tell us where you live, and we'll help.
- Warren
When evaluating a telescope, there are a few key factors to consider. The most important is the aperture, which is the diameter of the telescope's primary lens or mirror. A larger aperture allows for more light to enter the telescope, resulting in brighter and clearer images. Other important considerations include the telescope's focal length, magnification, and overall build quality.
Not necessarily. While a higher price may indicate better quality materials and optics, it's important to consider your own needs and experience level. A more expensive telescope may have advanced features that are unnecessary for beginners or casual stargazers. It's best to research and compare different models to find the best fit for your needs and budget.
Yes, many telescopes are designed for both types of viewing. However, some may be better suited for one over the other. For example, a telescope with a long focal length and high magnification may be better for observing distant celestial objects, while a shorter focal length and lower magnification may be more suitable for terrestrial viewing.
There are three main types of telescopes: refracting, reflecting, and catadioptric. Refracting telescopes use lenses to gather and focus light, while reflecting telescopes use mirrors. Catadioptric telescopes combine both lenses and mirrors. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, with factors such as portability, cost, and image quality varying between models.
It is possible to use a telescope in a city with light pollution, but the quality of your viewing experience may be affected. Light pollution can make it more difficult to see fainter objects in the night sky, so a larger aperture telescope may be necessary. You may also want to consider using light pollution filters or finding a dark sky location for optimal viewing.