Talk to me about telescopes

[zetec]

Is my eldests birthday in a couple of months, asking her what she'd like gave me a very exciting answer, she would like a telescope. She has always been interested in the night sky, and thoroughly enjoyed watching Brian Cox's 'Wonders' programs with me. On a clear night she can easily point out various constellations. Now a decent telescope is something that I have always wanted too so I am very excited at the thought of perhaps getting one for her birthday.

Personally I would like something that would give a good view of Jupiter or Saturn, Nebula and Galaxies, so she can see that these do actually exist and are out there.

Normally for a birthday budget is capped to around the £150 mark, but I am willing to up that as it is something I would very much like too, perhaps £300 or a bit higher for the right product.

Thanks.

Just to add, I of course will let her use it.....

[zetec]

Many thanks for all the replies, some food for thought.

I understand I won't get Hubble quality images, to be able to see Jupiter and make out its red spot, Saturn and its rings would be fantastic, even if it isn't crystal clear.

[zetec]

nellyleelephant said:

zetec said:

Many thanks for all the replies, some food for thought.

I understand I won't get Hubble quality images, to be able to see Jupiter and make out its red spot, Saturn and its rings would be fantastic, even if it isn't crystal clear.

This is within budget and it will easily resolve the red spot on jupiter.

http://www.firstlightoptics.com/dobsonians/skywatc...

Plus you'll have no complicated mounts to learn.

Cheers!

How about Jupiters moons?

[zetec]

Nellyleelephant and Bedazzled, thank you both very much for your help.

My eldest was fascinated by the story Brian Cox told about the Moon Io, that it turns itself inside out due to volcanic activity, how far would you have to step up, budget wise, so it becomes more than just a point of light?

Also with the 'scope you have recommended, would nebulae and galaxies be easily visible?

Again, many thanks

[zetec]

I'm well used to bigger isn't better, I'm a keen photographer and I know that more megapixels doesn't mean a better image, it's the light that can be captured that makes the quality of the image.

I've downloaded the Stellarium software, its a clear'ish night here and waiting for it to get dark, just need a 'scope now.

[zetec]

Lol at the above!!

Apologies for the thread ressurection!

The birthday approaches and she still has her heart set on a telescope

As recommended I have done some research on this the Skywatcher Skyliner 200P Dobsonian. Now it seems rather large and my house is rather small. Also my daughter will be 14, will it be too big for her to handle? I have seen examples of what it can do though and it is very impressive, is there anything else that gives the same performance with ease of use?

Again, many thanks.