ep or barlow

[cb1173]

Hi all,

Not sure if this has been asked before but is it better to buy a better magnification ep or a higher magnification barlow to acheive the same magnification.

For example if i was not exceeding the telescopes maximum useful magnification would a 5mm + 2x barlow or 10mm + 4x barlow be better. (i am presuming the 5mm is double the magnification of the 10mm). Does image qaulity degrade the higher magnification of the barlow.

Also what should i look for in a ep, i am getting confused by all the terms LER, LET, Plossl, 2,3 and 4+ element etc. What would be suited to planetry and what for dso.

Many thanks and sorry if i am an idiot for asking.

[DOBBY]

Forget the 'scopes max. magnification... it's what the atmosphere + light pollution will allow you...

the plossl is starter level eyepiece & the glass you view through gets smaller with higher mags, till you're looking through a pin-hole

LER...is long eye relief

for planets...BST explorers seem popular...for a few bob more...celestron X-Cel LX

for DSO... you need less mag or a wider angled view...a 32mm or 65+ degree FOV

[Nexus 6]

Hi cd..this thread is worth looking at...http://stargazerslounge.com/beginners-help-advice/80772-eyepieces-very-least-you-need.html