How do i get started?

[stargazer76]

Hi,

I am new to astronomy. I'm looking for tips and advices on how to get started, right now i currently don't own any equipment. Thanks

[John]

Hi - welcome to the forum and to the hobby !.

What is it that interests you about astronomy ? - that might provide some pointers on how you could take things forward.

It's not essential to own any equipment at all - you can see a lot with just your eyes when you know where and when to look

[stargazer76]

The sheer beauty of the universe, and the fact that it is constantly expanding. The stars and the galaxies, and the idea of the possibility of new, undiscovered galaxies, as well as the theory that there might be life on mars. All these things fascinates me.

And, of course, sometimes i just love to gaze at the nightsky, the moon and the stars I have considered buying a telescope, but i never bought one.

[ZEbbEDY]

whats the possible budget like?

[pvaz]

Start by learning some of the major constellations. These are used as road signs to help you find objects invisible to the naked eye so you can point a telescope or binos at them.

Download stellarium, it's a free planetarium software. Buy a beginners book, "Turn left at orion" is the most recommended and I can vouch for it.

If you have some binos use them. They won't show as much as a scope but they are easier to use and will help you start locating objects.

Get a telescope. There are many to choose from. If you want a good yet cheap all rounder get a reflector telescope. 6" or 8" will be fine to start and keep you busy for a few years.

There are other scope designs often better at some specific task. Refractors, for instance, produce sharper planetary images but for the same quality and performance they usually cost a lot more then a decent reflector and will show much less of DSOs (Deep Sky Objects as in Galaxies, Star clusters, nebulae and pretty much everything outside the solar system).

PS-> steer clear from ebay telescopes! Unless you want to be looking through plasticy lenses that show everything out of focus... Buy from a specialized dealer such as FLO (sponsor on top), Telescope House, etc.. Check the dealers' review section before you pick one.

[Damo636]

Hi and welcome. A good way to get started is with a pair of decent binoculars. I started with a cheap Lidl pair one night when on a camping trip. I pointed them at Orion and have been hooked since. It's a real help if you can recognize the constellations before taking the plunge. If you feel you really must have a telescope i would recommend a 6'' or 8'' Dobsonian setup. For bang for buck and ease of use they are the perfect starter scope. This is only my opinion of course and i'm sure others on here will offer you lots of advise also. Good luck.

Damo

[NGC404]

Find out where your nearest astronomy society is

There you will be able to try out some members gear to give you an idea of what you can see

List of UK socities here

Lincoln Astronomical Society

[swamp thing]

Hi

IMO Don't rush out spending money just go out under the stars and enjoy.

Can't beat just laying back and looking up.

Download "Stellarium" or get yourself a star atlas and go out and see what you can see with your eye alone (you'll be surprised what the naked eye can see).

You don't need a telescope or bins to enjoy the night sky.

Regards Steve

[stargazer76]

I downloaded Stellarium, seems like a good little piece of software, i think I'm going to keep it, thanks

[brantuk]

A good start would be to get hold of some binocs and have a look at the moon. Check out Liddl's they often have a sale of "Rocktrail" binoculars - only £15 last time and perfect for first steps.

Then have a go at the brighter objects with them like M42 in Orion, Beehive cluster, Alberio, and Andromeda. By the time you've seen that lot I guarantee you'll have bought a scope lol

[JamesM]

I would second DN18's suggestion of contacting your local astronomy club in order to look through some gear first. I would also google to see if you can locate any local observing groups (not necessarily the same as astro clubs) and not all astro clubs actually observe, which I think is what you would most like to do. There is also another advantage and that is to see some of this kit close up, as some of it is quite large, needs time to set up, to cool down and then pack away. There are many different types of scopes that will show you a slightly different view of the same object and different apertures will also make a difference in what level of detail can be resolved. Also viewing the night sky with eyepieces that have 82 - 100 degree fields of view make observing the universe an amazing experience. Lastly, viewing with experienced people will also afford you the opportunity to ask them what it is they do and what they may specialise in viewing, such as double stars, deep sky, comets, etc.

The reason for mentioning this as opposed to buying some binos and learning constellation is that it will provide you with an idea of what is possible should you want to take further. Looking at the moon is great in binoculars but when you observe it in a scope - it quickly becomes very addictive!

James

[Ad Astra]

Hello Ultimatium,

My class is going out tonight to give a 'star party' for the local middle school. There are lots of local events like these all over the US - there is sure to be an astronomy society within a reasonable drive from almost anywhere in the States.

Welcome to SGL!

Dan