Doink wrote:
Thank you. I really appreciate the discussion. It never gets easier, does
it. From that newbie question of what's the best first telescope to the
advanced what's the best telescope for a given purpose. For a purpose as
spcialized as moon viewing, there are still numerous factors at play which
contribute and detract from the view. After all this discussion, I'm leaning
toward a Russian MN or MCT OR a Meade RC (OTA only) 8-10". I can't find any
good details on the Meade RC OTAs. The 10" Meade RC OTA is less costly than
a high end Russian 6"! That's confusing...

Doink


Doink,

Over all I tend to agree with Chris P, the newt is the simplest and is
capable of the best performance per unit cost.

I would not buy any scope without testing it. Quality can vary
considerably from scope to scope unless you buy the very upper end where
they certify the optics.

When I went to buy some binocs I asked to see all they had in stock of
a certain brand. The sales people gave me quite a look. During the
testing in the store they (sales) were brought along and I would show
them the difference between the best and worst. At the end they
understood why I was picky.

What a hobby

d.