[Prev][Next][Index][Thread]
Re: (IAAC) FWD: What should I buy? (rich field scopes)
Luis,
Firstly, welcome to astronomy!! I think our discussion about these
telescopes originated from another newcomer asking for advice and the
ensuing discussion seemed to take everything well beyond the scope of a
newcomer.
I did not mean to worry you by my comments about the 4.5" Tasco. I was
merely comparing it to the telescope I use today, and saying that it,
like any other scope, had its problems. Whilst a 'frustrating
instrument' in the sense that it took a long time to find objects due to
the poor finder and wobbly mount, once an object was found it did
provide very nice views for an instrument of its size and cost. For
example, I remember being thrilled when I located Comet McNaught-Russell
a few years ago and was able to track its progress over a few nights. I
think these Tasco telescopes provide a challenge, but they can be really
satisfying once objects are actually found.
You mention that your scope has a 'maximum 750x magnification'. I would
certainly not use this. Unfortunately some of the starter telescopes on
the market often claim to possess such high magnifying powers for the
purposes of marketing; these powers are possible in theory if there were
no faults in the optics whatsoever and the mount was rock steady, which
of course NEVER happens, even in the best professional scopes. With a
4.5" scope though, you should be able to get reasonable good views with
powers of around 250x on a clear, steady night, away from a city and
with little wind.
When you are looking for deep sky objects with a scope like yours,
definitely use 50x: this provides the greatest field of view and so the
greatest margin of error when you are sweeping the skies, and so you are
more likely to pick up and object. Do not be put off with a Tasco: it
got me hooked, and its is still a useful instrument to have.
Wishing you clear skies, and every observing success,
Paul.
______________________________________________________
Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com