What scope to buy

[tyler0207]

I’m new to astronomy. I’m looking into the Orion scopes. I’m split between the Orion skyquest6, skyquest8, or starblast6 which is the best? Looking to stay under 450 bucks. Thanks. 

[Cornelius Varley]

Hello and welcome to SGL. Which telescope is best depends upon which criteria is uppermost. The StarBlast6 is the most portable, the Skyquest8 will give you the best views and the Skyquest6 is probably the best compromise between portability and viewing.

[Louis D]

It sort of depends on how important portability is to you.  If you're viewing from your backyard, get the biggest aperture scope you can lift for short distances (the 8" does come apart into two main pieces).  If you need to haul it some distance to your intended observing site, I'd go for a more compact design unless you have a good sized SUV or sedan.

If you intend on going for an 8" Dob, there's also the GSO made Apertura 8" which has a dual speed focuser, right angle correct image finder, cooling fan, and an adjustable balance point for altitude as well as the normal tension adjustment like the Skyquest.

Remember to budget another $150 or so for a few upgraded eyepieces in the near future such as Agena's Starguider Dual EDs.