Tom,

Should be able to get a Dob for less than $500 (may be some good used
ones on the market if folks react to Intelliscope PR). Even the lowly
XT4.5 (still available without the digital thing) would be good starter
at $199. Some with bigger scopes still use that as a grab-and-go.

Phil

bwhiting wrote:
FWIW....
I wouldn't (and don't) buy ANY scope unless its $500 USD, or more....
there is just too much "JUNK" out there to take any less chance than
that! Hey, how much is Ham radio equipment...descent motorcycle,
descent boat or airplane...how about coin collecting, especially
gold coins? How about Golf? Fishing....what's a graphite rod cost?
Hunting...what's a good 30-30 cost with telescopic sight, bullets,
license, clothing, etc etc???....Any hobby or activity sets you back at
least 500 bucks USD, if you want worthwhile and reliable equipment.
(except maybe running or jogging). Telescopes are no different....in
fact, they are more critical, because the laws of optics ditate that
optical surfaces have to be ground and figured to at least 1/4
wavelength of light, or else you may as throw your money down the toilet.

FWIW,
Clear Skies,
Tom W.





snow wrote:

I was on Amazon.com and I see like dozens of scopes for sale. Is there a
decent starter telescope in the $100 range?? I got 3 kids, don't want to
spend too much but like a scope with decent clarity. I own a 3 inch
refractor but it is 30 years old and need to be replaced.