I enjoy your videos. Thank you for taking the time and making great videos. The most important aspect of any astronomical telescope is light Gathering capability. The 8in dobsonian offers simplicity, ease-of-use, durability and the ability to gather large amounts of light. I started out with a department store 70mm refractor and that narrow tube a narrow field of view was not what I needed as a new astronomer. I disagree with your 90mm refractor recommendation I think the wide-field View of an 8 inch reflector is much better for a beginner.
It's always pleasant to watch your videos. I own the Orion Skyview 90 mm since early 90's, still working well!! Now trying to take a few pictures of the Sun next 12/14 here in Patagonia. Thanks a lot for your info and advices!!
Thanks allan! I've been deciding over the Orion AstroView 90mm and the Orion StarBlast II 4.5 for the last week now. This is a great video and really laid out the pros and cons. I'm purchasing the AstroView first thing tomorrow!
So glad I came across your video. I've been wasting hours looking at what to buy as a complete beginner. So informative, simple honest advice from someone who wants to help others get into this hobby and not waste their money. Thank you so much I will be watching the rest of your videos ❤
Just got a telescope (70mm orion refractor) and have watched a few of your vids. Comparisons vids and lenses. Thanks for your info. It really does help beginners to understand terminology and the pros amd cons of many types of scopes.
Thank you! What a great video, packed with information for the beginner (such as myself). My wife bought me a 70mm refractor as a gift and after seeing four of the moons of Jupiter I had to tell her she created a monster.
Thanks for this, was one of the most helpful. And good at answering some of my questions. Always worth mentioning binoculars for starting my 12 x 42 still have me addicted to looking at the moon.
After watching and reading maybe 20 different sources on this same question, first I have to say thanks, the overview of the different types of telescopes was very helpful and your recommendations were all well taken and have influenced my thoughts very much. Second, I actually went a slightly different way with my first "telescope:" I bought a pair of low-end "astronomy binoculars" (the Celestron 15X70 Skymasters), on sale for $70, as well as a heavy, round ceramic bowl to chart the shadows of the Sun. As the decision is so complex, I revisited my own reasons for really wanting to do astronomy in the first place, and had to come to the conclusion that my requirements are actually very modest: to re-create the discoveries of Pythagoras (that the Earth is round), Aristarchus and Copernicus (that the Sun is the centre of the solar system, the order of the planets), Eratosthenes (the circumferences of the Earth and Moon, and the distances to the Sun and Earth), Galileo (that Jupiter has moons), and John Wright (that the Milky Way is a galaxy, we're in it, and there are others.) Just with this, I felt it was "enough" to be able to observe 1. The shadows of the Sun and Moon. 2. A lunar eclipse. 3. The phases of Venus. 4. The moons of Jupiter. And 5. The Andromeda galaxy. None of which requires seeing craters on Ganymede or stripes on Jupiter or nebulae or binary stars etc. Given that short list, the best advice there is, and you said it too: don't bother with a cheap telescope, but a close second is: consider binoculars if you're on a budget. Hence my purchase. Now about the purchase: I am very happy with my decision. I have already observed the moons of Jupiter on several nights, and clearly one can make out that they are orbiting Jupiter, as they're in different places each night. Venus is in a very inconvenient location presently (too close to the Sun) but given the roundness of Jupiter in my view, I'm sure I'll be able to discern the phases of Venus once I have a chance. I have attempted (once) to observe the Andromeda Galaxy, but it was cloudy, and I was unprepared for mosquitoes. (lol). As for observing the shadows of the Sun, I haven't started yet, as my condo building is in the midst of exterior renovations and my balcony is not available for use. Once it re-opens, I will suspend a black glass marble with some fishing line across the bowl and make my observations once a month with alternating colours of sharpie marker. Then I plan to do a road-trip to a city at least a few hundred kilometres North or South, to compare the angle of shadows from a stake in flat ground, in order to re-create the advances of Eratosthenes. After I complete these observations, and reconfirm the works of the great astronomers, I will probably see if I can see Uranus without leaving the City, and maybe take a gander at the Orion Nebula, and at that point, see if I have any further ambition in astronomy. If I do, I'm convinced by your presentation and others that a refractor is the way to go, but as I consider the next big advance after Galileo to be Astrophotography, I would look to get APO optics and a computerised mount along with a camera of some type. I'm sure that (and maybe a couple different eyepieces or a new finder scope) would take care of all the rest of my star-gazing and astrophotography needs. Thanks again for your invaluable input to these decisions.
Thank you Mr. Hall for your knowledge that you share regarding telescopes. I have been trying to figure out what is going to work best for me and ensure my first telescope purchase will satisfy my growth in astronomy. This video helped me make my final decision and I appreciate your time dedicated to educating newbies. My original thought was to purchase an 8" dobsonian but due to size and travel capabilities I had a change of heart. My telescope purchase is going to be the Orion Astro View 120 ST. If you have any suggestions or advice on this please let me know.
Hi Allen, I'd like to challenge your opinion regarding astrophotography. I believe it should be seriously considered even by the beginner. I say that because, while there is a certain fascination in putting your eye up to the eye piece and seeing photons that have trudged across space-time from Jupiter or Betelgeuse or Andromeda, there is so much more to see that you can never see with the eye. Most objects, other than the planets, require a time exposure to become visible; require a camera to become visible. I've been actively engaged in astronomy for 3+ years now and vaguely involved most of my life. I have owned a 3 and 4.5 inch reflector, an 8 inch dob, a Celestron 70mm AZ and finally a Meade LX200. I even have access to our club's 14 inch SCT. Even when looking at a bright nebula like the Orion Nebula, none of these scopes can provide a view as good as I can get with a camera and a good lens or a camera and the 70mm Celestron. With that being the case, why is astrophotography not the first thing we talk about rather than the last? I believe the time has come for someone to design a beginner scope with a fully integrated camera. Ideally, it would involve some elementary image stacking right in the camera software. Anyway, its an idea I've been floating for a couple of years now and I hope somebody can eventually do it cheap enough to allow for a beginner version.
This video deserves way more views. So informative, thank you Allan. I was looking at a Sky-Watcher Startravel 120 EQ3 Refractor telescope for viewing Deep Sky Objects and the information in this video has sold me on it.
@@floppery7743 grab the Sky-Watcher StarTravel ST80, apparently it's slightly better, but very similar. Very rugged, lightweight and compact, good optics, decent eyepieces, serviceable and upgradable, pretty cheap, and lets you discern a couple of bands on Jupiter and see that Saturn does have rings. I'd rather recommend that you get just the OTA w/o the AZ tripod as it's lightweight enough for a normal photo tripod (which you'll of course still have to buy, but there are lots of those and they are pretty cheap; just make sure it's designed for a payload significantly heavier than the OTA which is 1.5kg, so it should be 4-5 kg). Later you can buy a really good tripod with equatorial mount and then a larger telescope that you'd use in that tripod, so it can be a very gradual upgrade.
In my experience from living out in the country for a few years where there was zero light pollution. I think being outside for a good hour will help in seeing detail. Our eyes take a long time to adjust to night and the slightest light contracts our pupils very quickly. If you spend a bit of time 1+ hours outside with no light pollution it's crazy how much more of the night sky is seen. The same thing has got to be true through a telescope. If you go look with your daytime vision you're not gonna see that much but if you acclimate to the dark you will see much more. I could be wrong. This is just a theory vis a vis telescopes but I have a telescope now and I'm gonna test this if these damn clouds ever clear... Great video. Luv and Peace.
Thank you very much Allan, really good video! I still consider myself a Beginner, bought a second hand 12" Dob and it's fantastic, plus I bought too, an small 60 mm Refractor. I'm looking for a better Refractor (90-120 mm), so, I'm still researching the market. Thank you again, George
Thank you Allan, I watched so many videos about beginner telescopes but yours is the one which brought the most value to me. You explain things very well and in a manner that I really understand the different philosophy behind the different scope types. I ordered a Celestron 130/660 DX Starsense telescope before watching your video, now I probably would have ordered their 102/660 refractor. If I’ll keep having fun with astronomy, my next one will be a refractor.
Just ordered my first ever scope. Would you believe Orion 90 AstroView? And before watching your video. Haven't even received it yet. This 81 year old is excited!!! Thanks for the tips. Feel I made a good choice. Dave Antrim, central Ohio
This video is very awesome. I not only learned basically everything I currently know on telescopes atm from this video, I also learned that niceties is a word. I thought you were word smithing there for a minute until I looked it up.
I don't typically comment on RUclips but this video you made was extremely helpful. Lots of insights and clarity I didn't learn from reading other websites. Thank you for doing this.
Allan, thanks for the great intro video on beginner telescopes. I will subscribe to your channel as you present your topics as straightforward and honest as anyone I've watched on YT. Thanks and success to you.
Good info, but I wish it was also shown how sky objects look through each of them, that's what someone new would be most interested in seeing. Knowing what sort of mirror is inside doesn't tell me if I would be able to see Saturn rings. A picture is worth a thousand words as the say...
Thank you so much for such a concise dissertation about the variety of telescopes available . . . and their pros & cons. I am a “newbie” to astronomy and have learned much from your videos. Again, thank you.
Thank you very much. This is the best video I have watched to understand WHY I should go for any telescope.. Very clear and I did enjoy your video. I will go for a refractor, since I like the cons of it more than the cons of the others.
Allan, I’m a beginner, I’m 64, but just a beginner. Like you discussed, I’m not too interested in the very technical portions of the sky. Basically if I could see the moon better than I can with only my eyes, I’d be happy. One thing I’d love to see and I’ve never seen it discussed, is shooting stars. Can you see shooting stars using a telescope? For instance, when the perseid meteor shower takes place every year, can I set up a telescope to try to see as many shooting stars as possible? And which would be best for that? Another question, I live 20 miles north of Oklahoma City , in a smaller city but get light pollution from both. I’m not really one to go out into the country with my telescope and set up, so most of the time it would be in my backyard. Compared to looking at the sky in my backyard, and going out into the country where it’s pitch dark, the skies are night and day (pun). Is there a better telescope for we peeps who will be gazing in our backyards, with some pretty significant light pollution? Of course my significant may be different than others. But I really want to see a ton of shooting stars when we have these meteor shower events every year, and I haven’t been able to see very many at all. Sorry for the length of my post. Thank you.
Thank you for being thorough and concise. Do you think you could perhaps post or do a video with images taken from each of the different types of scopes?
This video was not aimed as telescopes used for astrophotography, sorry. While you technically can take a picture through any telescope, these are not ones I would recommend for it. Maybe I will do one later more focused on astrophotography telescopes in the future.
Thanks so much great coverage of all types of telescopes and purposes 👍 can’t believe that a SCT isn’t as good for nebulae and star clusters as a refractor... especially with the edge HD from Celestron
My daughter (9yrs) has suddenly dropped on me about a week before Christmas that she wants a telescope. I've been able to buy a really cheap toy store one but I'm looking to actually buy a proper first scope in spring when we start camping again. Would you recommend a refractor or reflector for our first proper scope. I'm not averse to spending the money if I will benefit from it. Looking at $/£200
What are your thoughts on the celestron powerseeker 127 eq? I bought mine back in late August of this year and have throughly enjoyed viewing planets, the moon, galaxies, stars, star clusters and nebulas. This telescope has got me interested in wanting an even more powerful telescope. Here's my dilemma. I want to start getting in astrophotography, but I don't want to spend thousands of dollars into equipment. What telescope do you recommend would be a nice step up from the celestron powerseeker 127 eq that gets you into entry level astrophotography, yet not costing thousands of dollars? Also, for the powerseeker telescope,. do you recommend a 32 or 40mm eyepiece for viewing large globular or open star clusters?
I am not really a fan of those short tube scopes, the built in barlow makes them a little limiting for me. Of course, what matters is not what I think, but if you enjoy it! "Powerful" telescope is a very generic term. There are telescopes with greater focal lengths that provide more magnification. This gets you better views of planets, the craters of the moon, and better abilities at splitting stars. Unfortunately this also means views are typically darker so they are not that great for dim galaxies, nebulae, or wide star clusters. These would be your typical SCTs and MCTs. There are telescopes that are great at gathering light to let you see all the dim galaxies, nebulae, etc. Those tend to to be really physically large like 12" Dobsonians, which are not that great for planetary or any kind of astrophotography. Of course there are awesome astrophotography telescopes such as triplet APO refractors which are a little expensive (this Orion EON is a nice AP scope amzn.to/2EkbD1n). My best suggestion is to get a little 80mm refractor (a popular inexpensive one is the amzn.to/2Ut7xIX) and do some widefield astrophotography and then have another scope for visual such as a nice 120mm refractor (I really like the amzn.to/2QkE8CG for a visual refractor for beginners with a nice manual mount, you can motorize it with amzn.to/2QIt29R), or a Dobsonian (best bang for the buck is the amzn.to/2QJZ7hi). One great idea is to find your local astronomy club and try out their telescopes before you decide to buy one. Each one can be so different that it is tough to get a feel on the internet. For example, you could be a refractor nut like me and most reflectors just don't do it for you. Or, you could be a light bucket freak like some people I know with huge truss tube Dobsonians. Then again there are some people who are just as happy as can be with their little 90mm ETX scopes. To each their own!
being a pedant .. the light does not go around the central obstruction , the central obstruction stops light and reduces the effective size of the mirror
This is such a huge subject to tackle. Good job. 👍 p.s. I totally agree with you about department store telescopes. They probably turn more people off to astronomy than anything else. I did a sarcastic box opening of one on my home youtube channel. P.s. Refractors are king and 90mm is a sweet spot for me as well. 👍 ps.s. MCT all the way for close ups of the Moon.
Thank you. This was a good overview of what you can get for the money. I've got 127mm Mak-Cass and am looking for a second scope. At first I thought an 8' SCT or RC would do but not I'm thinking an 80 mm Refractor on an GoTo EG mount. Any comment? My primary interest is visual DSO. Maybe in a year astrophotography.
Excellent explanation and comparison of each type of telescope. I’m not a total beginner but looking at my next telescope and found your info useful. I love to look at planets and moon but also I’m also going to try astrophotography. What telescope design suits photography of both planets and star clusters and nebulae? Subscribed!
Well the answer is at least two different telescope designs. If there was one that did all three equally, we wouldn't have so many types! Planetary needs raw magnification, which means the best is an SCT or MCT. I personally use the Orion 180mm MCT like this one: amzn.to/2QkRj3O It does a fantastic job with the moon and planets, and I can do some clusters with it but nebulae are a little tight with that much magnification. Besides, it is a bear to cool down. For nebulae I find a good refractor hard to beat. Mine is an older version of this one: amzn.to/3leO4Jq Clusters are a mixed bag, high magnification is great for globulars while refractors are better for more spread out ones. Something in between might be an imaging newtonian like this one amzn.to/3j9jtve from skywatcher but you will probably need a heck of a mount to hold that wind-bucket, way more than the weight alone would suggest.
Allan Hall Thanks Allan! Well I tried my inexpensive imagining device (Sv105 $40) in my Tasco 4.5” “toy” telescope and took some not so bad pictures of the Moon last night plus a few of Jupiter and 3 moons. Jupiter was just a white disk no detail at all, but I wasn’t expecting miracles. Saturn was basically useless. It it got me excited enough to keep going. Thanks again for the feedback and wishing you well.
Im a moderately experienced amateur I'm getting a 8inch dob I'm seriously interested in splitting stars solar observations and looking for.comets and getting some punch out of open clusters should I go with a dob for that
I just came across your videos before I purchase the wrong one. Thank you. One question: what about Celestron powerseeker 60az? Would that one be any good?
Hi Allan. Great vid and very informative, I have a meade Polaris 130. And finally seeing things in the sky i want to see, got the view finder right and started using the fine adjustment sticks, very please with seeing Saturn and Jupiter last night, but want better clarity, I've got 6mm 10mm and 20mm ,Barlow lenses ,and suggestions please
Between the Astroview 90mm f/8.3 and Astroview view 120ST f/5 on EQ mount, which one would be a better refractor to buy. I am very interested in Deep Sky Viewing
Hello Allan, thank you for the video. I am looking for my first telescope as well. My strategy was to buy something I can use for both astrophotography and visual observation. I came up with David H. Levy Comet Hunter 152mm aperture, 731mm focal length. With F/4.8 it is right in the middle of the telescope range. What do you think? Thank you, Grigory
What about for terrestrial views? From all the things I've been reading/watching, choices are basically refractor or maksutov, the mak in a 70mm or 90mm seems like the best option due to its super compact design? for example, lets say I wanted to watch birds at a mile or two? or read a license plate at half a mile? or seeing 1/4 inch bullet holes in a target at 1000-2000 yards?
@Shockwave Bot That's kinda what I was thinking. I went ahead and ordered a celestron 70mm travelscope as it went on sale for $69 so it was just too hard to pass it up. Think it comes with 20mm and 10mm EP but I believe they're both kellner. I do want decent magnification, so was thinking of getting a 2x barlow and maybe an 8mm plossl, which should put me around 100x magnification? Any recommendations on affordably barlows and EPs? say around 20-30$ each?
My Meade 114mm f/8 Newtonian, same as the Celestron, is actually closer in performance to my 102mm f/8 fluorite-doublet, the former with its diminutive secondary-obstruction, and a single stalk supporting same. Good show, that, in choosing a Maksutov for your modified-Cassegrain, as a Schmidt is definitely poorer given its relatively enormous secondary-obstruction. 127mm is the sweet-spot among the varying apertures of Maksutovs, as I have a 127mm f/15 myself. There is also the classical-Cassegrain to consider; less time to wait for it to acclimate, albeit with spider-vanes still... agenaastro.com/gso-6in-f12-classical-cassegrian-reflector-ota-black.html A "Dobsonian" is Newtonian mounted upon a "Dobson" alt-azimuth, but John Dobson didn't invent the mount either. Dobson merely popularised the union, and in enabling larger apertures to be enjoyed by the common man. For that Dobson is to be celebrated, and has been in fact, granted. Dobson's arrogant groupies, however, out west in that confounded abyss, took it upon themselves to "christen" the combination in Dobson's honour, and in winnowing out the master in the process; for utter shame. Then, the Earl of Rosse had a mount like that long before Dobson was born, albeit with the inability to swing the 72" behemoth from left to right, and back again... i.imgur.com/9ulXIYW.jpg
The biggest mistake I see people make is too much magnification, don't go smaller than 10mm and honestly with that telescope I would not go smaller than about 12-15mm. Sharp smaller views are better than larger fuzzy views.
Allan, I was just about ready to buy a reflector telescope and watched this video an didn't know about cooling down with the reflectors. So now would you recommend the Celestron - StarSense Explorer DX 102AZ Smartphone telescope. Or is there a better refractor for around $350. I live in eastern wa. and very little light polution. I have been watching the space station go over when it is clear skys here which is often. Thanks for your help, in guiding me to a good refractor telescope. Is one brand better than another? Al Huth
I have no experience with that line of scopes although Celestron makes some good (and some bad) scopes. I certainly would not be opposed to trying it out. Personally, if you want something in the 102mm range that is very nice, try the Celestron Omni XLT 102mm at amzn.to/3esTJsc. yes, it is a little more money, but it is sooooooo worth it. At that same link if you wanted to really splurge, the 120mm version is a wonderful refractor and will give you absolutely stunning views. Brands CAN matter, not only in quality but in customer service, accessories and more. If you stick with midrange or higher Celestron, Orion, Meade, Skywatcher, etc then you should be fine. I personally own more Orion equipment than anything, then Celestron, but what works for me may or may not work for you. Clear skies!
Can you provide a link or some background to get me started on the focuser you put on you 90MM AstroV. I am just starting out again after a 30+ year hiatus so I am not familiar with the name. Thank you in advance and thank you for the videos, they have been very helpful.
The one I used is this model rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fi%2F123883161088%3Fchn%3Dps%26norover%3D1%26mkevt%3D1%26mkrid%3D711-117182-37290-0%26mkcid%3D2%26itemid%3D123883161088%26targetid%3D935431405813%26device%3Dc%26mktype%3Dpla%26googleloc%3D9027691%26poi%3D%26campaignid%3D10829254281%26mkgroupid%3D106351005733%26rlsatarget%3Dpla-935431405813%26abcId%3D9300396%26merchantid%3D6423794%26gclid%3DEAIaIQobChMIv5zE1fa-6wIVEPDACh1AjQ03EAQYASABEgItKvD_BwE&campid=5338731617&toolid=10001&customid=focuser although you need to measure the size for yourself.
Nice video Allan! I have a question, I would like to buy a scope or telescope for: 70% terrestrial use (very far objects on the sea - I have a house at the beach, far way objects on mointain, far away buildings and so on). 30% of the use would be check planets at night (if possible). What do you recommend for such use? (Begginer to intermediate level). My best Regards Buddy!
Thanks Allan for all you do. Is there any refractors you'd recommend for deep sky viewing. I hate to buy a dob if I really don't need to. 800-1000 budget for this new hobby. Interested in stars moreso than planetary. Thank you
My favorite beginner refractor and mount combination is the amzn.to/31AAnNm 120mm from Celestron. That leaves you plenty of money for eyepieces for which I suggest the amzn.to/2DdUA2c Celestron X-Cel LX models in probably 25mm, 18mm, and 12mm to start off with. If you have good seeing conditions, maybe substitute a 9mm for the 12mm. That should get you in at around $800.
@@AllanHall Thank you for the recommendation. I enjoy your informative videos. They help us newbies a lot. The refractor is backordered for the moment, but I'll check back often. I assume you'd recommend this over a dob due to the size of dobs and the time to get to ambient. Thanks again and clear skies to you.
@@tonybrown7846 Each has advantages and disadvantages. Dobs gather more light making nebula brighter so you can see more structure. Refractors increase contrast so you can see more structure. Refractors cool down faster and "make more sense" to me when getting it on target, but that is VERY personal. Low to mid refractors can suffer from CA while dobs can have coma, meh. I have had several dobs, and have a Zhumell Z8 sitting six feet from me that I have owned for years and has only been out twice. My refractors, on the other hand, go out every time. To each their own.
Hi, I need recommendations, I would like a good portable, refractor, that doesn't take long to set up and doesn't need any extra equipment/pieces/parts etc Thank you!!!
Hello Allan, any recommendation for a 7 yr old kid? I watched your video about celestron power seeker 70az but This is not available in my country. I would like to watch moon, stars and some planets. What about other kínd of celestron? What do you think about quasar q50? Thank you so much!
I honestly know nothing about Quasar telescopes but from what I see they are made by Bresser which is not a bad brand. I would highly recommend something larger than a 50mm, I see they make an 80mm diameter 900mm focal length, that would be a good place to start.
Hi, im a newbie in watching the sky, i curently have an Omegon ST 76700U, Barolw 2x lens, some eyepices, H20mm, H12,5mm and a SR4mm, now i can see the moon pretty well, but i have problems with planets, i can barelly see them, and the shadow of the middle piece from the barrel is visible, any way i can improve or do i need to upgrade the telescope ? Thx in advance and very usefull videos!
I assume you are using amzn.to/2YNUENH this telescope? Let's start with the shadow of the middle piece as you say. I would recommend that you collimate your telescope and the easiest way is with a laser collimater like this one amzn.to/31EMd95 . This should dramatically improve your telescope's views. As for viewing the planets, you should be able to get reasonable views of Saturn with rings and Jupiter with moons. Anything else is just going to be a dot in the sky, unfortunately. There are of course all the Messier objects and they should provide excellent viewing once your scope is up and running. A great book to start you out with is this one amzn.to/34LTg1W Clear skies!
@@JohnSmith-bc1ru Yes, and once you do that, you need to remember that when you take the telescope outside it needs to acclimate to the temperature so leave it outside with the covers removed (pointed down) for around 30 minutes before you start using it. Clear skies!
At some point yes. When you buy new, sometimes you get lucky and it's good to go. But eventually, collimation is required. When you first start, this can be overwhelming. But, with enough videos/reading online, collimation is a snap/easy. The first time I did mine, I was sure I was going to "break" something. These days, I can collimate in about 15 minutes +- usually less. By the way, my first scope was a SpaceProbe 130. It's an excellent choice. Be careful with the mount though, don't over tighten the lock down knobs.
I agree with Chrisorah, the Spaceprobe 130ST should be just fine and yes, all reflectors have to be calibrated at some point. Best investment ever is a good laser collimater, save you a ton of time and effort. The amzn.to/39cZQhS SVBony is an excellent starter choice and very inexpensive.
Have you had any experience with a 130mm reflector 900mm focal length, if so would you recommend the 90mm refractor 900 focal length over it. The telescopes I am looking at have eq2 mounts and cost the same.
There really won't be too much difference between the 90mm refractor and 130mm reflector as far as what they are capable of. The big differences are that the refractor won't require as much cool down, will give you a little more contrast, and will never have to be collimated (like you need to do all the time with the reflector). None of that is a deal killer if you really like the reflector but my choice for a beginner scope is really the amzn.to/2DpKTOb Orion 90mm Astroview EQ.
Allan Hall yes finally someone who isn’t biased to the reflector, I was looking at two models but if they perform the same and one is no maintenance then that’s a win for the refractor. Thanks for sharing your wisdom!
Also have you had any experience looking through a 4 inch refractor I just want to see if it’s worth forking out another 100 dollars for only 1inch upgrade
Sir, will Celestron Inspire 90AZ be a good choice to view the deep space objects? I want to go for an Inspire 100AZ but not finding a suitable deal. Will there be a major difference between 90AZ and 100AZ?
Deep space objects could really mean anything. A nice 90mm. If you like the Inspire I think it might work for you but a better deal in my opinion is the amzn.to/3jlo0vj for just a little more money. It has better accessories, is a better overall scope, and uses an EQ mount that will make it easier for you to track objects across the sky.
If you are talking about the amzn.to/3h2YKZh then I am not a big fan of the mount but the scope might be OK. You would be a LOT happier with something like this one amzn.to/3g21Lrv if you could afford it.
@@AllanHallim not talking about the cometron 114Az im talking about the www.argos.co.uk/product/5067718?istCompanyId=a74d8886-5df9-4baa-b776-166b3bf9111c&istFeedId=c290d9a9-b5d6-423c-841d-2a559621874c&istItemId=ixilqwqla&istBid=t&&cmpid=GS001&_$ja=tsid:59157%7cacid:629-618-1342%7ccid:9560115598%7cagid:101739069967%7ctid:aud-641224040617:pla-890147649528%7ccrid:422913086370%7cnw:g%7crnd:154716253106433560%7cdvc:c%7cadp:%7cmt:%7cloc:1006699&Google&gclid=CjwKCAjwydP5BRBREiwA-qrCGmqTxLnUHFe_A1xtR_P7dU7eTZtBeZS_YFjKBHK3FRvby6MBQp9mixoCjfcQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
While I have a few videos that might help, and there are tons of other videos on the subject, I have also written a book that might be helpful amzn.to/3eJ6wWd Good luck!
GOTO systems are great, but you pay for them. Most beginners are better off spending the money on a quality telescope instead of a cheap telescope and some electronics. amzn.to/3jlo0vj is a far better telescope than amzn.to/30tS5Aq even though they are priced about the same. So do you want to see more? Or see less but find them easier?
There is a misconception about the Dobsonian telescope, it's not about the base that it stands on. Read "The Dobsonian Telescope: Facts!" on supercooper.jimdo.(dot)com
I've watched several of your videos and I just wanted to say "thank you" for taking the time an effort to make and present these on RUclips.
You are welcome! I hope you got some useful information from them.
I enjoy your videos. Thank you for taking the time and making great videos. The most important aspect of any astronomical telescope is light Gathering capability. The 8in dobsonian offers simplicity, ease-of-use, durability and the ability to gather large amounts of light. I started out with a department store 70mm refractor and that narrow tube a narrow field of view was not what I needed as a new astronomer. I disagree with your 90mm refractor recommendation I think the wide-field View of an 8 inch reflector is much better for a beginner.
It's always pleasant to watch your videos. I own the Orion Skyview 90 mm since early 90's, still working well!! Now trying to take a few pictures of the Sun next 12/14 here in Patagonia. Thanks a lot for your info and advices!!
Thanks allan! I've been deciding over the Orion AstroView 90mm and the Orion StarBlast II 4.5 for the last week now. This is a great video and really laid out the pros and cons. I'm purchasing the AstroView first thing tomorrow!
Getting back into astronomy in my retirement. This video is great... thank you!
By far the best guide to getting your first telescope.
So glad I came across your video. I've been wasting hours looking at what to buy as a complete beginner. So informative, simple honest advice from someone who wants to help others get into this hobby and not waste their money. Thank you so much I will be watching the rest of your videos ❤
Just got a telescope (70mm orion refractor) and have watched a few of your vids. Comparisons vids and lenses. Thanks for your info. It really does help beginners to understand terminology and the pros amd cons of many types of scopes.
I would like one Hubble Space Telescope w/ included Atlas rocket. I'll pay through Paypal. Tnx
There is only a James Webb still available, hope you didnt get the Atlas yet because it needs to be bought in a package deal with an Ariane 5 :P
Great that will be 200billion dollars
You got a discount of 1 mill dollars instead IF YOU GUESS THE CODE _ _ _ _ _ _
Edit: everyone got a like but me so ill just like my comment 👍
Yes sir but you should give us your soul as a Deposit.
I've been watching a bunch of videos on what type of telescope to get, and this is the most helpful one so far. 👍
Glad to hear it!
Thank you! What a great video, packed with information for the beginner (such as myself). My wife bought me a 70mm refractor as a gift and after seeing four of the moons of Jupiter I had to tell her she created a monster.
Thanks for this, was one of the most helpful. And good at answering some of my questions. Always worth mentioning binoculars for starting my 12 x 42 still have me addicted to looking at the moon.
After watching and reading maybe 20 different sources on this same question, first I have to say thanks, the overview of the different types of telescopes was very helpful and your recommendations were all well taken and have influenced my thoughts very much.
Second, I actually went a slightly different way with my first "telescope:" I bought a pair of low-end "astronomy binoculars" (the Celestron 15X70 Skymasters), on sale for $70, as well as a heavy, round ceramic bowl to chart the shadows of the Sun.
As the decision is so complex, I revisited my own reasons for really wanting to do astronomy in the first place, and had to come to the conclusion that my requirements are actually very modest: to re-create the discoveries of Pythagoras (that the Earth is round), Aristarchus and Copernicus (that the Sun is the centre of the solar system, the order of the planets), Eratosthenes (the circumferences of the Earth and Moon, and the distances to the Sun and Earth), Galileo (that Jupiter has moons), and John Wright (that the Milky Way is a galaxy, we're in it, and there are others.) Just with this, I felt it was "enough" to be able to observe 1. The shadows of the Sun and Moon. 2. A lunar eclipse. 3. The phases of Venus. 4. The moons of Jupiter. And 5. The Andromeda galaxy. None of which requires seeing craters on Ganymede or stripes on Jupiter or nebulae or binary stars etc.
Given that short list, the best advice there is, and you said it too: don't bother with a cheap telescope, but a close second is: consider binoculars if you're on a budget. Hence my purchase. Now about the purchase: I am very happy with my decision. I have already observed the moons of Jupiter on several nights, and clearly one can make out that they are orbiting Jupiter, as they're in different places each night. Venus is in a very inconvenient location presently (too close to the Sun) but given the roundness of Jupiter in my view, I'm sure I'll be able to discern the phases of Venus once I have a chance. I have attempted (once) to observe the Andromeda Galaxy, but it was cloudy, and I was unprepared for mosquitoes. (lol).
As for observing the shadows of the Sun, I haven't started yet, as my condo building is in the midst of exterior renovations and my balcony is not available for use. Once it re-opens, I will suspend a black glass marble with some fishing line across the bowl and make my observations once a month with alternating colours of sharpie marker. Then I plan to do a road-trip to a city at least a few hundred kilometres North or South, to compare the angle of shadows from a stake in flat ground, in order to re-create the advances of Eratosthenes.
After I complete these observations, and reconfirm the works of the great astronomers, I will probably see if I can see Uranus without leaving the City, and maybe take a gander at the Orion Nebula, and at that point, see if I have any further ambition in astronomy.
If I do, I'm convinced by your presentation and others that a refractor is the way to go, but as I consider the next big advance after Galileo to be Astrophotography, I would look to get APO optics and a computerised mount along with a camera of some type. I'm sure that (and maybe a couple different eyepieces or a new finder scope) would take care of all the rest of my star-gazing and astrophotography needs.
Thanks again for your invaluable input to these decisions.
Amazing
What a concise and useful presentation. Very nicely done.
The most beneficial instructional video I have seen on youtube yet. Thank you for your producing such an informative and easy to follow video.
Thank you Mr. Hall for your knowledge that you share regarding telescopes. I have been trying to figure out what is going to work best for me and ensure my first telescope purchase will satisfy my growth in astronomy. This video helped me make my final decision and I appreciate your time dedicated to educating newbies. My original thought was to purchase an 8" dobsonian but due to size and travel capabilities I had a change of heart. My telescope purchase is going to be the Orion Astro View 120 ST. If you have any suggestions or advice on this please let me know.
first thanks! this is the best beginner video on RUclips! everyone else on RUclips is at best second to you! hats off and best regards sir!!! 🔭
Hi Allen, I'd like to challenge your opinion regarding astrophotography. I believe it should be seriously considered even by the beginner. I say that because, while there is a certain fascination in putting your eye up to the eye piece and seeing photons that have trudged across space-time from Jupiter or Betelgeuse or Andromeda, there is so much more to see that you can never see with the eye. Most objects, other than the planets, require a time exposure to become visible; require a camera to become visible. I've been actively engaged in astronomy for 3+ years now and vaguely involved most of my life. I have owned a 3 and 4.5 inch reflector, an 8 inch dob, a Celestron 70mm AZ and finally a Meade LX200. I even have access to our club's 14 inch SCT. Even when looking at a bright nebula like the Orion Nebula, none of these scopes can provide a view as good as I can get with a camera and a good lens or a camera and the 70mm Celestron. With that being the case, why is astrophotography not the first thing we talk about rather than the last? I believe the time has come for someone to design a beginner scope with a fully integrated camera. Ideally, it would involve some elementary image stacking right in the camera software. Anyway, its an idea I've been floating for a couple of years now and I hope somebody can eventually do it cheap enough to allow for a beginner version.
This video deserves way more views. So informative, thank you Allan. I was looking at a Sky-Watcher Startravel 120 EQ3 Refractor telescope for viewing Deep Sky Objects and the information in this video has sold me on it.
Sounds like you know alot about telescopes could you please tell me if this telescope is any good Omegon AC 80/400 AZ-3 telescope
@@floppery7743 grab the Sky-Watcher StarTravel ST80, apparently it's slightly better, but very similar. Very rugged, lightweight and compact, good optics, decent eyepieces, serviceable and upgradable, pretty cheap, and lets you discern a couple of bands on Jupiter and see that Saturn does have rings. I'd rather recommend that you get just the OTA w/o the AZ tripod as it's lightweight enough for a normal photo tripod (which you'll of course still have to buy, but there are lots of those and they are pretty cheap; just make sure it's designed for a payload significantly heavier than the OTA which is 1.5kg, so it should be 4-5 kg). Later you can buy a really good tripod with equatorial mount and then a larger telescope that you'd use in that tripod, so it can be a very gradual upgrade.
The best video on beginners telescope that I found in RUclips. It shows the pros and cons of each type of telescope.
In my experience from living out in the country for a few years where there was zero light pollution. I think being outside for a good hour will help in seeing detail.
Our eyes take a long time to adjust to night and the slightest light contracts our pupils very quickly.
If you spend a bit of time 1+ hours outside with no light pollution it's crazy how much more of the night sky is seen.
The same thing has got to be true through a telescope. If you go look with your daytime vision you're not gonna see that much but if you acclimate to the dark you will see much more.
I could be wrong. This is just a theory vis a vis telescopes but I have a telescope now and I'm gonna test this if these damn clouds ever clear...
Great video.
Luv and Peace.
That is for surely part of the equation , with why you want to use red flash lights , and avoid alcohol consumption.
Thank you very much Allan, really good video! I still consider myself a Beginner, bought a second hand 12" Dob and it's fantastic, plus I bought too, an small 60 mm Refractor. I'm looking for a better Refractor (90-120 mm), so, I'm still researching the market. Thank you again, George
Thank you Allan, I watched so many videos about beginner telescopes but yours is the one which brought the most value to me. You explain things very well and in a manner that I really understand the different philosophy behind the different scope types. I ordered a Celestron 130/660 DX Starsense telescope before watching your video, now I probably would have ordered their 102/660 refractor. If I’ll keep having fun with astronomy, my next one will be a refractor.
Just ordered my first ever scope. Would you believe Orion 90 AstroView? And before watching your video. Haven't even received it yet. This 81 year old is excited!!! Thanks for the tips. Feel I made a good choice.
Dave Antrim, central Ohio
Thank you for all the information, and the clear and practical explanation of the pros and cons of each type! Great video
Your videos are so so good. I truly wish you'd make more. Very detailed explanation with a great voice. I could literally listen for hours.
This video is very awesome. I not only learned basically everything I currently know on telescopes atm from this video, I also learned that niceties is a word. I thought you were word smithing there for a minute until I looked it up.
I don't typically comment on RUclips but this video you made was extremely helpful. Lots of insights and clarity I didn't learn from reading other websites. Thank you for doing this.
You're very welcome!
Allan, thanks for the great intro video on beginner telescopes. I will subscribe to your channel as you present your topics as straightforward and honest as anyone I've watched on YT. Thanks and success to you.
Fantastic teacher. The best intro to telescopes I've seen.
Good info, but I wish it was also shown how sky objects look through each of them, that's what someone new would be most interested in seeing. Knowing what sort of mirror is inside doesn't tell me if I would be able to see Saturn rings. A picture is worth a thousand words as the say...
brilliant information for the nightshift astronomer hobbyist. Next what about good quality onboard Wi-Fi cameras for long time shots? 😎 thank you.
Thank you, great video and helped me to choose my first telescope that turned out to be and Orion 90mm Astroview
Thank you so much for such a concise dissertation about the variety of telescopes available . . . and their pros & cons.
I am a “newbie” to astronomy and have learned much from your videos. Again, thank you.
Glad to have helped!
Fond of the 10" goto dob. However, my dream rig is the 16" goto.
Thank you very much. This is the best video I have watched to understand WHY I should go for any telescope.. Very clear and I did enjoy your video. I will go for a refractor, since I like the cons of it more than the cons of the others.
That's what it is all about, which one works the best for you and gets you out under the stars observing. Clear skies!
Allan, I’m a beginner, I’m 64, but just a beginner. Like you discussed, I’m not too interested in the very technical portions of the sky. Basically if I could see the moon better than I can with only my eyes, I’d be happy. One thing I’d love to see and I’ve never seen it discussed, is shooting stars. Can you see shooting stars using a telescope? For instance, when the perseid meteor shower takes place every year, can I set up a telescope to try to see as many shooting stars as possible? And which would be best for that? Another question, I live 20 miles north of Oklahoma City , in a smaller city but get light pollution from both. I’m not really one to go out into the country with my telescope and set up, so most of the time it would be in my backyard. Compared to looking at the sky in my backyard, and going out into the country where it’s pitch dark, the skies are night and day (pun). Is there a better telescope for we peeps who will be gazing in our backyards, with some pretty significant light pollution? Of course my significant may be different than others. But I really want to see a ton of shooting stars when we have these meteor shower events every year, and I haven’t been able to see very many at all. Sorry for the length of my post. Thank you.
Thank you, this helped a lot. Looking to get a refractor. I was bouncing between Orion and Celestron.
11:51 mine has 2 plus any eyepiece or field flattener (if I'm using a camera)
Great video, Thanks! I bought Celestron 130EQ, my first scope.
How do you like it?
@@stickyrubb it does perform very well and I'm yet to explore its capabilities by attaching a DSLR to it. I use my mobile phone to take images.
Thank you for being thorough and concise. Do you think you could perhaps post or do a video with images taken from each of the different types of scopes?
This video was not aimed as telescopes used for astrophotography, sorry. While you technically can take a picture through any telescope, these are not ones I would recommend for it. Maybe I will do one later more focused on astrophotography telescopes in the future.
Thank you so much.
Learned quite a bit.
Thanks so much great coverage of all types of telescopes and purposes 👍 can’t believe that a SCT isn’t as good for nebulae and star clusters as a refractor... especially with the edge HD from Celestron
Thank you very much for your explanations, which will save money of armatures like us
Alan, thank you very much for this wonderfully explained video aimed at the beginners. I have really got very usefull tips.
My daughter (9yrs) has suddenly dropped on me about a week before Christmas that she wants a telescope. I've been able to buy a really cheap toy store one but I'm looking to actually buy a proper first scope in spring when we start camping again.
Would you recommend a refractor or reflector for our first proper scope. I'm not averse to spending the money if I will benefit from it. Looking at $/£200
Fantastic video. Very helpful. Thanks!
What are your thoughts on the celestron powerseeker 127 eq? I bought mine back in late August of this year and have throughly enjoyed viewing planets, the moon, galaxies, stars, star clusters and nebulas. This telescope has got me interested in wanting an even more powerful telescope. Here's my dilemma. I want to start getting in astrophotography, but I don't want to spend thousands of dollars into equipment. What telescope do you recommend would be a nice step up from the celestron powerseeker 127 eq that gets you into entry level astrophotography, yet not costing thousands of dollars? Also, for the powerseeker telescope,. do you recommend a 32 or 40mm eyepiece for viewing large globular or open star clusters?
I am not really a fan of those short tube scopes, the built in barlow makes them a little limiting for me. Of course, what matters is not what I think, but if you enjoy it!
"Powerful" telescope is a very generic term. There are telescopes with greater focal lengths that provide more magnification. This gets you better views of planets, the craters of the moon, and better abilities at splitting stars. Unfortunately this also means views are typically darker so they are not that great for dim galaxies, nebulae, or wide star clusters. These would be your typical SCTs and MCTs.
There are telescopes that are great at gathering light to let you see all the dim galaxies, nebulae, etc. Those tend to to be really physically large like 12" Dobsonians, which are not that great for planetary or any kind of astrophotography.
Of course there are awesome astrophotography telescopes such as triplet APO refractors which are a little expensive (this Orion EON is a nice AP scope amzn.to/2EkbD1n).
My best suggestion is to get a little 80mm refractor (a popular inexpensive one is the amzn.to/2Ut7xIX) and do some widefield astrophotography and then have another scope for visual such as a nice 120mm refractor (I really like the amzn.to/2QkE8CG for a visual refractor for beginners with a nice manual mount, you can motorize it with amzn.to/2QIt29R), or a Dobsonian (best bang for the buck is the amzn.to/2QJZ7hi).
One great idea is to find your local astronomy club and try out their telescopes before you decide to buy one. Each one can be so different that it is tough to get a feel on the internet. For example, you could be a refractor nut like me and most reflectors just don't do it for you. Or, you could be a light bucket freak like some people I know with huge truss tube Dobsonians. Then again there are some people who are just as happy as can be with their little 90mm ETX scopes. To each their own!
I'm looking for a telescope so I can look at number of the planet's but can't make my mind up which one what make aparture 130mm please help. Richard
being a pedant .. the light does not go around the central obstruction , the central obstruction stops light and reduces the effective size of the mirror
This is such a huge subject to tackle. Good job. 👍 p.s. I totally agree with you about department store telescopes. They probably turn more people off to astronomy than anything else. I did a sarcastic box opening of one on my home youtube channel. P.s. Refractors are king and 90mm is a sweet spot for me as well. 👍 ps.s. MCT all the way for close ups of the Moon.
Love your videos man! Very chill and informative.
Thank you. This was a good overview of what you can get for the money. I've got 127mm Mak-Cass and am looking for a second scope. At first I thought an 8' SCT or RC would do but not I'm thinking an 80 mm Refractor on an GoTo EG mount. Any comment? My primary interest is visual DSO. Maybe in a year astrophotography.
Thank you for sharing Good and useful information for a person interested in telescope.
Did you ever install a GSO Focuser on your es ar 127mm doublet?
Many thanks for all these wonderful videos. Watching them from Managua, Nicaragua.
Thank you for this video it was very helpful.
Can I have the James Web Telescope that'll replace the hubble Telescope soon?
Sir which is good ? - refractor telescope or newtanian telescope ?
Excellent explanation and comparison of each type of telescope. I’m not a total beginner but looking at my next telescope and found your info useful.
I love to look at planets and moon but also I’m also going to try astrophotography. What telescope design suits photography of both planets and star clusters and nebulae?
Subscribed!
Well the answer is at least two different telescope designs. If there was one that did all three equally, we wouldn't have so many types!
Planetary needs raw magnification, which means the best is an SCT or MCT. I personally use the Orion 180mm MCT like this one: amzn.to/2QkRj3O
It does a fantastic job with the moon and planets, and I can do some clusters with it but nebulae are a little tight with that much magnification. Besides, it is a bear to cool down.
For nebulae I find a good refractor hard to beat. Mine is an older version of this one: amzn.to/3leO4Jq
Clusters are a mixed bag, high magnification is great for globulars while refractors are better for more spread out ones.
Something in between might be an imaging newtonian like this one amzn.to/3j9jtve from skywatcher but you will probably need a heck of a mount to hold that wind-bucket, way more than the weight alone would suggest.
Allan Hall Thanks Allan!
Well I tried my inexpensive imagining device (Sv105 $40) in my Tasco 4.5” “toy” telescope and took some not so bad pictures of the Moon last night plus a few of Jupiter and 3 moons. Jupiter was just a white disk no detail at all, but I wasn’t expecting miracles. Saturn was basically useless. It it got me excited enough to keep going. Thanks again for the feedback and wishing you well.
Im a moderately experienced amateur I'm getting a 8inch dob I'm seriously interested in splitting stars solar observations and looking for.comets and getting some punch out of open clusters should I go with a dob for that
I just came across your videos before I purchase the wrong one. Thank you. One question: what about Celestron powerseeker 60az? Would that one be any good?
Thank you so much for the video!
Hi Allan. Great vid and very informative, I have a meade Polaris 130. And finally seeing things in the sky i want to see, got the view finder right and started using the fine adjustment sticks, very please with seeing Saturn and Jupiter last night, but want better clarity, I've got 6mm 10mm and 20mm ,Barlow lenses ,and suggestions please
Thank you very much for the information
Thank you very much Sir for your efforts, this is really helpful 👍
Between the Astroview 90mm f/8.3 and Astroview view 120ST f/5 on EQ mount, which one would be a better refractor to buy. I am very interested in Deep Sky Viewing
Hello Allan, thank you for the video. I am looking for my first telescope as well. My strategy was to buy something I can use for both astrophotography and visual observation. I came up with David H. Levy Comet Hunter 152mm aperture, 731mm focal length. With F/4.8 it is right in the middle of the telescope range. What do you think? Thank you, Grigory
Hi Allan, what is your opinion of the Meade StarNavigator NG 90mm f/10 GoTo Achro Refractor Telescope. Regards Willie
Thank you sir for the information 👍
What about for terrestrial views? From all the things I've been reading/watching, choices are basically refractor or maksutov, the mak in a 70mm or 90mm seems like the best option due to its super compact design? for example, lets say I wanted to watch birds at a mile or two? or read a license plate at half a mile? or seeing 1/4 inch bullet holes in a target at 1000-2000 yards?
@Shockwave Bot That's kinda what I was thinking. I went ahead and ordered a celestron 70mm travelscope as it went on sale for $69 so it was just too hard to pass it up. Think it comes with 20mm and 10mm EP but I believe they're both kellner. I do want decent magnification, so was thinking of getting a 2x barlow and maybe an 8mm plossl, which should put me around 100x magnification? Any recommendations on affordably barlows and EPs? say around 20-30$ each?
Idk if you'll see this but do you know what the difference between an 8" Orion skyquest Plus and a Skyline is?
A very informative video. Thank you. A new subscriber.
My Meade 114mm f/8 Newtonian, same as the Celestron, is actually closer in performance to my 102mm f/8 fluorite-doublet, the former with its diminutive secondary-obstruction, and a single stalk supporting same.
Good show, that, in choosing a Maksutov for your modified-Cassegrain, as a Schmidt is definitely poorer given its relatively enormous secondary-obstruction. 127mm is the sweet-spot among the varying apertures of Maksutovs, as I have a 127mm f/15 myself. There is also the classical-Cassegrain to consider; less time to wait for it to acclimate, albeit with spider-vanes still... agenaastro.com/gso-6in-f12-classical-cassegrian-reflector-ota-black.html
A "Dobsonian" is Newtonian mounted upon a "Dobson" alt-azimuth, but John Dobson didn't invent the mount either. Dobson merely popularised the union, and in enabling larger apertures to be enjoyed by the common man. For that Dobson is to be celebrated, and has been in fact, granted. Dobson's arrogant groupies, however, out west in that confounded abyss, took it upon themselves to "christen" the combination in Dobson's honour, and in winnowing out the master in the process; for utter shame.
Then, the Earl of Rosse had a mount like that long before Dobson was born, albeit with the inability to swing the 72" behemoth from left to right, and back again... i.imgur.com/9ulXIYW.jpg
I have a Sky-Watcher 250px (10 inch). How would the views compare to your 180mm MCT?
great video again
What is a good Barlow to.use with the Orion 90mm for looking at the moon and planets?
I bought a 2x shorty Barlow for my Orion 90mm and it’s great
@@superkiller6652 Who makes it?
seattwa Orion
@@superkiller6652 Thank you.
seattwa no problem
Allan.. i have a Galileo Reflector Telescope (G-80080TR).. i've only been able to view the moon.. was hoping u had some advice for viewing planets
The biggest mistake I see people make is too much magnification, don't go smaller than 10mm and honestly with that telescope I would not go smaller than about 12-15mm. Sharp smaller views are better than larger fuzzy views.
Allan, I was just about ready to buy a reflector telescope and watched this video an didn't know about cooling down with the reflectors. So now would you recommend the Celestron - StarSense Explorer DX 102AZ Smartphone telescope. Or is there a better refractor for around $350. I live in eastern wa. and very little light polution. I have been watching the space station go over when it is clear skys here which is often. Thanks for your help, in guiding me to a good refractor telescope. Is one brand better than another?
Al Huth
I have no experience with that line of scopes although Celestron makes some good (and some bad) scopes. I certainly would not be opposed to trying it out.
Personally, if you want something in the 102mm range that is very nice, try the Celestron Omni XLT 102mm at amzn.to/3esTJsc. yes, it is a little more money, but it is sooooooo worth it. At that same link if you wanted to really splurge, the 120mm version is a wonderful refractor and will give you absolutely stunning views.
Brands CAN matter, not only in quality but in customer service, accessories and more. If you stick with midrange or higher Celestron, Orion, Meade, Skywatcher, etc then you should be fine. I personally own more Orion equipment than anything, then Celestron, but what works for me may or may not work for you.
Clear skies!
Can you provide a link or some background to get me started on the focuser you put on you 90MM AstroV. I am just starting out again after a 30+ year hiatus so I am not familiar with the name. Thank you in advance and thank you for the videos, they have been very helpful.
The one I used is this model rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com%2Fi%2F123883161088%3Fchn%3Dps%26norover%3D1%26mkevt%3D1%26mkrid%3D711-117182-37290-0%26mkcid%3D2%26itemid%3D123883161088%26targetid%3D935431405813%26device%3Dc%26mktype%3Dpla%26googleloc%3D9027691%26poi%3D%26campaignid%3D10829254281%26mkgroupid%3D106351005733%26rlsatarget%3Dpla-935431405813%26abcId%3D9300396%26merchantid%3D6423794%26gclid%3DEAIaIQobChMIv5zE1fa-6wIVEPDACh1AjQ03EAQYASABEgItKvD_BwE&campid=5338731617&toolid=10001&customid=focuser although you need to measure the size for yourself.
@@AllanHall Thank you!
Nice video Allan! I have a question, I would like to buy a scope or telescope for:
70% terrestrial use (very far objects on the sea - I have a house at the beach, far way objects on mointain, far away buildings and so on). 30% of the use would be check planets at night (if possible). What do you recommend for such use? (Begginer to intermediate level). My best Regards Buddy!
A nice refractor would fit the bill, something like the amzn.to/3eJJsXy is a nice starting place.
Thanks Allan for all you do. Is there any refractors you'd recommend for deep sky viewing. I hate to buy a dob if I really don't need to. 800-1000 budget for this new hobby. Interested in stars moreso than planetary. Thank you
My favorite beginner refractor and mount combination is the amzn.to/31AAnNm 120mm from Celestron. That leaves you plenty of money for eyepieces for which I suggest the amzn.to/2DdUA2c Celestron X-Cel LX models in probably 25mm, 18mm, and 12mm to start off with. If you have good seeing conditions, maybe substitute a 9mm for the 12mm. That should get you in at around $800.
@@AllanHall Thank you for the recommendation. I enjoy your informative videos. They help us newbies a lot. The refractor is backordered for the moment, but I'll check back often. I assume you'd recommend this over a dob due to the size of dobs and the time to get to ambient. Thanks again and clear skies to you.
@@tonybrown7846 Each has advantages and disadvantages. Dobs gather more light making nebula brighter so you can see more structure. Refractors increase contrast so you can see more structure. Refractors cool down faster and "make more sense" to me when getting it on target, but that is VERY personal. Low to mid refractors can suffer from CA while dobs can have coma, meh.
I have had several dobs, and have a Zhumell Z8 sitting six feet from me that I have owned for years and has only been out twice. My refractors, on the other hand, go out every time. To each their own.
Hi, I need recommendations, I would like a good portable, refractor, that doesn't take long to set up and doesn't need any extra equipment/pieces/parts etc
Thank you!!!
Orion travel scope probably
Hello Allan, any recommendation for a 7 yr old kid? I watched your video about celestron power seeker 70az but This is not available in my country. I would like to watch moon, stars and some planets. What about other kínd of celestron? What do you think about quasar q50? Thank you so much!
I honestly know nothing about Quasar telescopes but from what I see they are made by Bresser which is not a bad brand. I would highly recommend something larger than a 50mm, I see they make an 80mm diameter 900mm focal length, that would be a good place to start.
Very helpful! Thanks!
Hi, im a newbie in watching the sky, i curently have an Omegon ST 76700U, Barolw 2x lens, some eyepices, H20mm, H12,5mm and a SR4mm, now i can see the moon pretty well, but i have problems with planets, i can barelly see them, and the shadow of the middle piece from the barrel is visible, any way i can improve or do i need to upgrade the telescope ? Thx in advance and very usefull videos!
I assume you are using amzn.to/2YNUENH this telescope?
Let's start with the shadow of the middle piece as you say. I would recommend that you collimate your telescope and the easiest way is with a laser collimater like this one amzn.to/31EMd95 . This should dramatically improve your telescope's views.
As for viewing the planets, you should be able to get reasonable views of Saturn with rings and Jupiter with moons. Anything else is just going to be a dot in the sky, unfortunately.
There are of course all the Messier objects and they should provide excellent viewing once your scope is up and running. A great book to start you out with is this one amzn.to/34LTg1W
Clear skies!
@@AllanHall That is the model indeed, so the first thing i have to do is collimate my telescope.
@@JohnSmith-bc1ru Yes, and once you do that, you need to remember that when you take the telescope outside it needs to acclimate to the temperature so leave it outside with the covers removed (pointed down) for around 30 minutes before you start using it.
Clear skies!
Do all reflector telescopes need to be Collimated??? Does the Orion SpaceProbe 130 ST need collimated? Thinking about getting that one TYVM!!!
At some point yes. When you buy new, sometimes you get lucky and it's good to go. But eventually, collimation is required. When you first start, this can be overwhelming. But, with enough videos/reading online, collimation is a snap/easy. The first time I did mine, I was sure I was going to "break" something. These days, I can collimate in about 15 minutes +- usually less. By the way, my first scope was a SpaceProbe 130. It's an excellent choice. Be careful with the mount though, don't over tighten the lock down knobs.
@@chrisorah919 ok TYVM much appreciated!!!
I agree with Chrisorah, the Spaceprobe 130ST should be just fine and yes, all reflectors have to be calibrated at some point. Best investment ever is a good laser collimater, save you a ton of time and effort. The amzn.to/39cZQhS SVBony is an excellent starter choice and very inexpensive.
Have you had any experience with a 130mm reflector 900mm focal length, if so would you recommend the 90mm refractor 900 focal length over it. The telescopes I am looking at have eq2 mounts and cost the same.
There really won't be too much difference between the 90mm refractor and 130mm reflector as far as what they are capable of. The big differences are that the refractor won't require as much cool down, will give you a little more contrast, and will never have to be collimated (like you need to do all the time with the reflector). None of that is a deal killer if you really like the reflector but my choice for a beginner scope is really the amzn.to/2DpKTOb Orion 90mm Astroview EQ.
Allan Hall yes finally someone who isn’t biased to the reflector, I was looking at two models but if they perform the same and one is no maintenance then that’s a win for the refractor. Thanks for sharing your wisdom!
Also have you had any experience looking through a 4 inch refractor I just want to see if it’s worth forking out another 100 dollars for only 1inch upgrade
Sir, will Celestron Inspire 90AZ be a good choice to view the deep space objects? I want to go for an Inspire 100AZ but not finding a suitable deal. Will there be a major difference between 90AZ and 100AZ?
Deep space objects could really mean anything. A nice 90mm. If you like the Inspire I think it might work for you but a better deal in my opinion is the amzn.to/3jlo0vj for just a little more money. It has better accessories, is a better overall scope, and uses an EQ mount that will make it easier for you to track objects across the sky.
@@AllanHall Thank you. Appreciate your response!
is the celestron 114az newtonian telescope a good telescope for beginners?
If you are talking about the amzn.to/3h2YKZh then I am not a big fan of the mount but the scope might be OK. You would be a LOT happier with something like this one amzn.to/3g21Lrv if you could afford it.
@@AllanHallim not talking about the cometron 114Az im talking about the www.argos.co.uk/product/5067718?istCompanyId=a74d8886-5df9-4baa-b776-166b3bf9111c&istFeedId=c290d9a9-b5d6-423c-841d-2a559621874c&istItemId=ixilqwqla&istBid=t&&cmpid=GS001&_$ja=tsid:59157%7cacid:629-618-1342%7ccid:9560115598%7cagid:101739069967%7ctid:aud-641224040617:pla-890147649528%7ccrid:422913086370%7cnw:g%7crnd:154716253106433560%7cdvc:c%7cadp:%7cmt:%7cloc:1006699&Google&gclid=CjwKCAjwydP5BRBREiwA-qrCGmqTxLnUHFe_A1xtR_P7dU7eTZtBeZS_YFjKBHK3FRvby6MBQp9mixoCjfcQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
not this guy reading right through me lmao
Nice video!
my updates on telescopes? The ones you mentioned are no longer on amazon
I put in a new link to the Orion 90mm refractor but it seems everyone is out of the Celestron 114mm powerseeker, sorry.
hi i am trying to teach my self about astpnomy can you help me
While I have a few videos that might help, and there are tons of other videos on the subject, I have also written a book that might be helpful amzn.to/3eJ6wWd Good luck!
collect them ;
watt about goto syteam
GOTO systems are great, but you pay for them. Most beginners are better off spending the money on a quality telescope instead of a cheap telescope and some electronics. amzn.to/3jlo0vj is a far better telescope than amzn.to/30tS5Aq even though they are priced about the same. So do you want to see more? Or see less but find them easier?
Astute !
can you see galaxy with the refractor
Yes, you can see a galaxy in a refractor.
There is a misconception about the Dobsonian telescope, it's not about the base that it stands on. Read "The Dobsonian Telescope: Facts!" on supercooper.jimdo.(dot)com
HI I AM Amteur