Newbie looking for advice/recommendations...

[davelivesey]

Hi all,

I'm looking to get my first telescope for observations and astrophotography. I'm new to telescopes other than owning a refractor 'toy' telescope as a child. I've been looking at the Sky Watcher 130 / 130M / 130P / 130P DS as I've seen positive reviews, but also conflicting information on using an dSLR (I have a Nikon D7100). Does anyone here have experience using these instruments with a dSLR that could offer some advice? 

Many thanks in advance.

[vlaiv]

Hi and welcome to SGL.

Out of listed models, only 130PDS is really suited for astrophotography and consequently the least suitable for visual observation. Although two don't exclude each other - tweaks that benefit in one field - sometimes slightly degrade performance in the other - in this case, 130PDS has the largest secondary obstruction of the lineup (to be able to fully illuminate photographic field).

In any case - if you are looking to do astrophotography - two starter tips:

1. it is really, really expensive hobby

2. put all of your energy and funds into getting solid equatorial mount

Btw - there is a hole thread dedicated to imaging with 130PDS scope here:

 

[davelivesey]

Thanks so much @vlaiv!

[Beardy30]

I’d avoid the sW 130 I sold me it and as a poor choice and I regretted it