Eyepiece davice please

[legoalan]

Since my telescope only came with 25mm and 6.5mm eyepieces, I would really like something which is in between the eyepieces. I think the Skywatcher 7-21mm Zoom Eyepiece Sky-Watcher 7-21mm Zoom Eyepiece (1.25'/31.7mm Format) - by OVL seems to fit the bill pretty nicely, but I've heard that some people think these variable zoom eyepieces are not as good as just normal fixed eyepieces. Is this true and what would you recommend that I get if it should be a fixed one.

Thanks people

[Peter Drew]

Very much a case of personal preference. Zooms in the price range that you mention tend to have a small apparent field of view at the low power end and larger at the high end. Your existing 25mm would probably offset the former. I find zooms to be a convenient addition to the inevitable eyepiece collection, the really expensive ones come close to alternative single eyepieces.

[david o]

For the ins 'n' outs of choosing EPs, you might find these posts : "Eyepieces - the very least you need" and "Understanding and choosing eyepieces" a help in guiding you through the basics.

I'd be tempted not to buy anything for now, just use what came with the 'scope. With eyepiece time under your belt you'll know what needs replacing or if there's a "gap" that needs filling.

As to zoom EPs, the general consensus seems to be that they aren't a worthwhile buy, unless you're willing to spend top money for the very best.

HTH