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Is there anybody out there?

nickd

By nickd
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nickd

nickd

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Hello Everyone.  Just starting out so no telescope yet, just a pair of binoculars but going to take the plunge shortly.  Been looking up at the universe all winter from deepest darkest Lincolnshire and wondering what else is up there to see.   

Choosing a telescope is making my head explode so expect a few daft questions!

Anyone else in North Lincs?

Cheers,

Nick.

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Sandancer10

Sandancer10

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Hi Nick from the North East and a warm welcome to SGL. You have come to the right place to get advice on the equipment you need. You just need to decide whether you want to observe or photograph as it can make a big difference to what you buy.

Good luck and Happy Stargazing.

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CumbrianGadgey

CumbrianGadgey

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Hi,

I'm not from around your neck of the woods, but there's plenty up there to see and you'll get no end of helpful advice here.

Have a good time and don't be shy to ask questions. It's a real headache deciding on a first scope but it needn't be. Let people know your budget and the recommendations will come flooding in, I think.

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ronin

ronin

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There is a few from Lincolnshire on SGL so there could well be people close to you, go have a look at the Social Groups section.

You seem to have a fairly dark skies in that neck of the woods, depending on exactly where you are.

Concerning a scope - try and get along to a couple of clubs and see what is used and what appeals to you. If the scope appeals then you are more likely to actually use it. Also decide what it is you want to do and may want to do withing the first 6 months to a year.

Clubs, try Fedastro.

Perhaps the North Lincs club?

See if they or any other have a public evening, and go, look and ask.

As said also look at the Social Groups here.

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nickd

nickd

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Only been away for lunch and a few replies already.  Thanks everyone.

The sky can get very dark here, even with the naked eye the view is impressive, can't wait to see more detail.  

Good advice on social groups, will have a look.

Will post on equipment in beginners forum.

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oldfruit

oldfruit

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Hi Nick and welcome, I too am from Lincolnshire. If you have not already done so, you may want to look up North Lincs Astro, or East Midlands Stargazers. There are a few of us out this way and you would be more than welcome to join us at one of our meetings. It would also give you the chance to have a look through some of the other members scopes which may in turn help you to decide which sort of set up would best suit you.

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JamesM

JamesM

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Hi Nick and welcome to the forum. If you haven't done so already, you might want to take a look at this website for some great information on binocular mounts etc and also the monthly object list is a good resource for ideas. With regards to locating any desired object, you might want to consider downloading some free planetarium software called Stellarium. It's a great bit of kit that can be calibrated to match the sky that you can see from your observing location. It will also keep you entertained when the clouds come in too!  :grin:

With regards to a scope, two important questions come to mind, budget and what you intend to observe. Generally the dobsonian type of scope (a newtonian reflecting scope on a dobsonian mount) represents the best value for money in regard to aperture, remembering that the more aperture you have, the more light you can collect and therefore the more detail you can resolve. Particularly useful on deep sky objects (DSO's) such as galaxies and nebula which of course are naturally faint distant objects. If you pop a question or two over on the beginners equipment sections you will receive more detailed advice. It goes without saying that part of your research should include looking through some scopes and so it's a good idea to pop along to a couple of public observing nights which are typically organised by local astro clubs and observation groups at this time of year. They are also useful events for you to get an understanding on what all the specifications actually mean at the eyepiece and to also understand what size and type of scope will best meet your own expectations. It will also present an opportunity to get a handle on the size of some this kit should you need to carry it about along with the chance to use different eyepieces which can have quite an effect on the view that you see.

Clear skies for now and enjoy the forum

James

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nickd

nickd

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Thanks All.  Feel suitably welcomed.

JamesM - Sage words.  Am downloading Stellarium now.  You final comment about size / portability is key.  I assume, like cameras, the best scope is the one you are have with you.

Nick.

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