Which binoculars for stargazing?

[funkyrobot]

I have a small 60mm cheapo telescope that has terrible optics. I would like to upgrade to something larger, but have been informed that a pair of binoculars are very handy (and cheaper than a new scope, for now).

So, does anyone have any recommendations on which binoculars to buy for night sky viewing (I'll be upgrading the telescope at a later date)? Also, what do I need to look out for (i.e. size of the lens, length, optics coolour etc)?

I guess i'll need a tripod too to help steady them.

Thanks.

[funkyrobot]

Thanks all.

Took a look around and have found celestrons for around £60 that should fit the bill (15x70). It seems that 20x80's are just over £100. I could stretch to that if they make a lot more difference.

Is it worth getting the 20x80's?

[funkyrobot]

Just thinking about this and i'll need a tripod and mount too.

I have found a metal L mount for about £15, which sounds better than a flimsy plastic one.

Finally, how do the mounts work on bins? Never mounted them to anything before. Thanks

[funkyrobot]

Thanks for the info.

I'm 6ft 4in tall so will need a big mount (arf arf!). I'm seriously thinking of spending a little more and getting the 20x80's, but I need to consider the tripod and the mount cost too, so may go for the 15x70's.

Edited by funkyrobot on Tuesday 6th September 12:36

[funkyrobot]

I like them bins.