Binocular Help

[cloud9]

Hi everybody! Im relatively new to astronomy and thus far i have only used my eyes to view the night sky but i am interested in buying a pair of binoculars (preferrably from the shop and not online) my main interest is planetary viewing but i also like watching the moon.

What binos would suit me best?

[kniclander]

you probably need to give us some idea of a budget and also if they'll be just for astro or if you want them for general use too. And are you thinking of a tripod also or something to hand-hold?

[Solar B]

Binos are a "very" good way to get into astronomy

They tend not to be good for planetary views though

(not very sharp) unless you have an enormous budget.

but will be fine for Lunar work.

For best planetary views i would recommend a refracting telescope.

Brian

[cloud9]

budget wise im not really looking for something that will cost more than £100. If i could get a decent telescope for that price then i would but i presume most good telescopes are a lot more expensive than that.

[cloud9]

hi. sorry for the double post but after a few members recommended me to get a telescope on other threads and found this one. I know absolutely nothing about telescopes so i wouldn't know if this is a good telescope or a complete no, no!.

Buy Discovery Channel Spotting Telescope. at Argos.co.uk - Your Online Shop for ..

[Darren B]

I would say no no. If you can stretch your budget to £115, I would recomend the Startravel 80 EQ1. It has a far better mount, tripod, eyepieces etc.

If worse comes to the worse and you decide astronomy is not your thing, I have notice that this telescope commands a good price on e-bay. That's due to it's reputation.

[cloud9]

ok thankyou. Do i have to buy that online or will they sell it instore in some shops.

[Darren B]

There are quite a few astronomy shops that sell the skywatcher range of telescopes so if they have it in stock you can see it in the flesh, though prices do vary. With First Light Optics you can buy over the web, over the phone, I think they have have a show room though not 100% sure. They are good to talk to if you have any queries. That's been my experience of them.

[FLO]

Thanks Darren but unfortunately we don't have a showroom yet.

Cloud9, one of SGL's members has put together a Google map that includes dealers with showrooms. Best though to phone first to ensure they stock the models that interest you. (The map centres on Canada but scroll right to find the UK dealers)

HTH

[cloud9]

ok thankyou all very much

[Taff]

Hi' I have a pair of 10x50's wich i great just by holding them for looking around with.With my 20x80s i use a tripod to put them on to have a look around because of their weight.Mark

[cloud9]

Mark. What make are your 10x50s and where did you get them?