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Amateur Astronomy

So you want to buy a telescope?

There are several ways of observing the celestial wonders that can (supposedly) be seen in the skies over Washington (or more likely, 40+ miles out of town). Perhaps the most inexpensive and easiest method is to simply look up (to prevent a crick in your neck, lie down on a blanket or lawnchair). Using just your eyes, you can see the Moon, planets, meteors, stars, and one or two galaxies (on a really clear and dark night!). But if you are really interested in observing and want to see more, then you will need some optical aid (other than eyeglasses!).

So you are thinking about buying a telescope. And you saw a great deal over at the department store. You know- that telescope with the long, shiny, red tube. STOP! THINK! A telescope is a precision instrument. So buying a telescope is going to require some time just like buying a stereo or a car. Surely you wouldn't buy a car without comparing it to others?!

To help you decide on what kind of astronomical equipment you need, consider the following questions:

  • How much do I know about astronomy?
  • Will I still be interested in astronomy in a year or two?
  • How much money am I willing to spend on equipment right now? in the long run?

If you are just starting out, then the best idea is to obtain a handbook of the night sky, learn the constellations, and look. Borrow or buy an issue of ASTRONOMY or SKY & TELESCOPE (monthly magazines for amateur astronomers). Attend local astronomy club meetings and their observing sessions. Visit planetariums and observatories. Ask questions.

Now after you have learned a little about astronomy and you think you still want a telescope, consider buying a good pair of binoculars. Most amateur astronomers and even professional astronomers with their giant telescopes have binoculars. Binoculars are low power magnifiers which means that typically objects are magnified about 7 times (as in 7x50 binoculars). However, binoculars can also be used for other purposes, are easy to transport, and a pair with excellent optical quality is relatively inexpensive. Also the larger field of view and being able to use both your eyes make it easier for you to find many deep sky objects that are not visible to the naked eye.

Now if you still want to buy a telescope:

  1. Learn about the different kinds of telescopes (reflecting, refracting, Newtonian, Schmidt-Cassegrain, Dobsonian,...).
  2. Go to your local astronomy club's observing session or to the observatory. There you can look through the different kinds of telescopes. Feel free to ask the owners or staff questions such as how much their scope cost, how much time is involved in setting up, how difficult is it to set up, how hard is it to clean or repair, why did they buy that telescope, and other questions that come to your mind.
  3. Obtain a past copy or wait for the issue of Astronomy OR Sky & Telescope which has the "Guide to Telescopes." (Nov 1997 S&T) Basically, it is a listing of commercial telescopes arranged by style and price range. Comparisons are then made in each grouping as to quality, stability, and other factors. There is also a book now available - I think it's called 'Starware.' Since I originally wrote this piece (back in 1996 for the Midlands Astronomy Club), the internet has become much more prevalent... Both magazines now have telescope and equipment comparisons online. And there are other sites that compare and review telescopes!!
  4. Once you have picked out a telescope all you have to do is buy it. There are two shops in the DC/Baltimore region that we know of that carry telescopes and accessories -- Company Seven in Laurel, MD, and Hands on Optics in Damascus, MD. (Email me if there are others!) You can also check photo shops and hobby stores, but they are notorious for carrying cheaper telescopes and often do not have staff who are competent to answer questions about astronomy. Otherwise, and most likely, you will have to order your telescope from a catalog.
  5. After your telescope arrives, read the directions, fill out warranty cards, familiarize yourself with the buttons and knobs, and enjoy the night sky!

New Telescope Owner Nights

We have an amazing turnout at our New Telescope Owner Nights held each January! We've had several requests to hold it again at some other time of the year ... we're looking at the schedule and will post something on this site when we've decided!

Resources

Last Updated: Wednesday May 14, 2008 by Elizabeth Warner
University of Maryland UM Astronomy Department
CMPS
University of Maryland