another newbie

I also recieved a scope for xmas, a "celestron" firstscope 90 eq
(refractor).
I don't know much, and now friend wants to buy one.
everyone we speak with has a different idea as to whether he should buy a
"refractor" or "reflector".
any ideas you have would be appreciated.

"Gary Kump (Home)" wrote in message
news:NhEvf.145560$2k.143303@pd7tw1no...
I also recieved a scope for xmas, a "celestron" firstscope 90 eq
(refractor).
I don't know much, and now friend wants to buy one.
everyone we speak with has a different idea as to whether he should buy a
"refractor" or "reflector".
any ideas you have would be appreciated.


There is no "right" answer of course but the uksa FAQ here might help
http://www.astunit.com/faq/uksciastrofaq.htm#E

Robin

Gary Kump (Home) wrote:

I also recieved a scope for xmas, a "celestron" firstscope 90 eq
(refractor).
I don't know much, and now friend wants to buy one.
everyone we speak with has a different idea as to whether he should buy a
"refractor" or "reflector".
any ideas you have would be appreciated.

Occasional use in the back garden, then get a refractor, they really are
point and see.
Reflectors are a little more tricky - the mirrors have to be aligned to
get perfect vision, once done, it should stay true for a long time, so
long as it isnt banged around.If you have the patience to do this
occasionally, then a reflector will be fine for you, if you just want to
go out and see something once a fortnight, then a refractor is better.

The plus points of reflectors are that you get a bigger scope than the
equivalent priced refractor, there are less lenses in a reflector, so
quality is likely to be a little higher as well.
Alan.


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A.Lee wrote:
Occasional use in the back garden, then get a refractor, they really are
point and see.
Reflectors are a little more tricky - the mirrors have to be aligned to
get perfect vision, once done, it should stay true for a long time, so
long as it isnt banged around.If you have the patience to do this
occasionally, then a reflector will be fine for you, if you just want to
go out and see something once a fortnight, then a refractor is better.

The plus points of reflectors are that you get a bigger scope than the
equivalent priced refractor, there are less lenses in a reflector, so
quality is likely to be a little higher as well.
Alan.


Just lurking on the thread, but have to say what an excellent response
Alan, makes it very clear for those who don't yet have a scope and are
thinking of buying one. I may just get into this astronomy lark after all!.

John