Celestron Astromaster 130

[yorks]

Hi all

Is this telescope worth cohnsidering as a starter scope if it can be purchased cheaply ?

Thanks

[Neilius]

I bought one from Amazon last November and I'm happy with it, although for a few extra bucks you will be able to buy a Skywatcher 130. I posted a thread a few hours ago asking for comparisons between both scopes, but haven't had a reply yet.

The Astromaster 130 was going for £100 - £120 last time I looked, but in retrospect, (and for about £20 more) I would have bought the Astromaster 130Md - same scope but with a motor drive.

Don't rush out and buy just yet - See what the other members have to say first.

[JamesM]

Hi Yorks,

Can I refer you to Astrobaby's reply to Neilius's original question in the Beginners Help and Advice Section, where she has kindly supplied a direct appraisal of the Celestron and the Skywatcher 130 scopes.

The conclusion is that the Skywatcher IS the better buy!

Clear skies

James

[John]

I would go for the Skywatcher 130 over the Astromaster 130 as well (sorry Nelius).

[Neilius]

No worries folks. I bought the scope before joining here and it is superior to the 60mm refractor that I still have.

I've just been observing Saturn, using the 6.3mm and 4mm eyepieces that arrived yesterday. The results were quite surprising.

I aim to upgrade to a Skymaster next year, a 150mm at least.

[John]

I aim to upgrade to a Skymaster next year, a 150mm at least.

Try a Skywatcher, they are even better

From 130mm I'd definately try and go to 200mm (8") rather than 150mm. The 20mm extra won't give you a significant gain really.

[yorks]

Thanks for the advice everyone. I wasnt actually planning on buying the Astromaster new. I will take a look at the Skymaster though.

[the milster]

I have the astromasrer and I'm quite happy with it. If I bought it I'd have done a bit more research but It'll do me for now