David Burgess

Thanks to everyone who submitted replies to my question about eyepieces, much appreciated!

I have just purchased my first telescope, a Skywatcher 200P. I have trawled this site and others to get as much information as possible and I know that many would advise against it until I have spent some time on the learning curve but I want to replace the basic eyepieces that came with the scope. I know, given all the variables involved, that my question is impossible to answer with any precision but I’ll pose it anyway. I have no specific requirement, like many first-timers, other than viewing the moon planets and stars in a general sense. I know that there is no such thing as a multi-purpose eyepiece just as there is such thing as a multi-purpose fishing rod but I am assuming that quality eyepieces will enhance the viewing experience. So, with a budget of around £200, which 2 lenses in terms of manufacturer and specification would experienced astronomers suggest I plump for? I have also got a basic £25 Barlow so with the higher spec. eyepieces would it be worth upgrading this as well? I am also conscious that as my scope is a prime beginner’s one, I don’t want to waste money on an eyepiece that the scope is too limited to exploit.Aany advice would be most welcome.

Thanks John, much appreciated.

I’ve just received my Skywatcher 200 and I knew that it was a big bit of kit but was surprised that it was even bigger than I thought. This is not a problem as it will be primarily used in my garden but I would obviously like to take it in the car from time to time to better observation sites and was wondering if people had any tips on how to ensure that you transport it without jarring it or doing anything else untoward. Also the instructions recommend setting up the finder alignment by looking at an object in daylight at least 500 metres distant and from my garden the only thing that would meet this distance criterion is a tree that is probably nearer 400 than the 500 mentioned. Does this make a difference or should I transport it somewhere before I start using it in anger where I can reliably target an object that is far enough away to achieve the correct alignment. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.