Skywatch - 2021 - 64

Intro to Scopes

Making Choices
Given all the options described here,
you're probably wondering what scope
is best. That really is one of those questions that only you can answer. But here
are a couple pieces of advice.
First, figure out your budget and
stick to it. Don't forget that in addition
to the scope and mount, you'll probably
want to set aside some money for a good
star atlas and perhaps an extra eyepiece or two. Second, start basic. A doeverything instrument can seem really
appealing, but it can also be overwhelming until you've racked up some experience under the night sky. Third, make
sure your scope is a good match for your
circumstances. A large Dobsonian is a
fi ne choice for a suburban backyard, but
if you live in a city apartment and have
to carry your scope down a fl ight of
stairs or transport it to a remote viewing
site, something more portable would be
a better choice.
For beginners seeking an instrument
that can show a wide range of objects
well, it's hard to go wrong with an
8-inch Dobsonian. If you feel you can
handle the extra weight and expense,
a 10-inch Dob is even more capable.
That's what I usually suggest to most
64 SK Y WATCH 2021

First Target
A close-up view of the
Moon's battered surface
is usually high on a beginner's list of must-see
telescopic sights. It's
also a target seasoned
observers can't resist
returning to again and
again.

beginners. If, however, you prize portability over everything else, a smaller altazimuth reflector or refractor is a sensible choice. If your budget allows and
you enjoy technology, a Go To scope
can be a fun option as well.
Do seek out a local astronomy club
or attend a star party or two so you can
try out a few scopes before taking the
plunge. It's amazing how much clarity
even a little experience can bring to the
decision-making process!

Finally, bear in mind that there is
no one "perfect" choice. All telescopes
represent compromises of one sort or
another. Indeed, I've often said that the
best thing about my fi rst telescope was
that it taught me all the things to avoid
with my second one. But if you choose
wisely, you may never desire another
telescope.

p Tabletop

Telescope This 5-inch
Newtonian reﬂector features an open-tube
design and is ﬁtted with a tabletop, alt-azimuth
mount. This style of mount sounds great in
principle, but only works well if you use it with a
sufﬁciently sturdy table.

GARY SERONIK is a Sky & Telescope
editor and lifelong telescope nut.

Dob For All Seasons Plenty of
aperture and ease of use are the calling cards
of the Dobsonian telescope. This 10-inch Dob
is surprisingly easy to transport: Its optical tube
assembly simply lifts off the mount, allowing each
component to be carried separately.

DOBSONIAN: KEN HEWITT-WHITE

So, what's not to like? Go To mounts
tend to be more expensive and complex
than their non-computerized cousins,
and require electricity, usually provided
by a set of batteries or a DC power pack.
And some observers simply enjoy the
thrill of the hunt. There's an undeniable
sense of accomplishment that comes
with tracking down an elusive galaxy or
nebula with just a star chart and a flashlight (red, of course).
Regardless of what kind of mount
you choose (or your scope comes with)
keep one basic truth in mind: A steady
view is an enjoyable view. Be sure that
your telescope and mount are a good
match. Few things in stargazing are as
frustrating as a mount that jiggles and
vibrates whenever you touch the telescope's focuser, causing objects in the
eyepiece to annoyingly bounce around.
An undermounted big scope shows less
than a small one with sturdy support.

Skywatch - 2021

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Skywatch - 2021