Astronomy / Space Telescope?

[Cattleya]

Looking for best value telescope out there? It seems the 8SE from Celestron is probably one of the best value ones around.

Any thoughts of something with that capability or better that is worth buying at a reasonable price?

Thanks

 

[edd]

Depends: what do you aim to do? Observe stars and planets by eye or take photos for example?
What experience if any do you have?
Related to that how easy to use do you want it to be?
Is the 6SE at about your maximum price point and have you budgeted for other items?

 

[Surfinjo]

Telescopes come in two essential groups., reflector and refractor.

A refractor, if it is of very good quality, is excellent for looking at the moon and into your neighbours bedroom at night.

A reflector is great for long distance observation as well as looking at the moon and into your neighbours bedroom at night.

Reflector is the way to go really.

Appature: The biggest you can afford. Less than 80 is generally considered a waste of time. Think of looking through a straw.

f number. This is the focal length. For reflectors this will usually be quite high. Generally, an f5 will give very bright images of fairly nearby objects such as the moon and your neighbours bedroom, f12 will give dim images clear images of long distance objects.

For anything serious, a higher f number is a must.

Mount. A good quality mount is essential. Three types to consider, Dobsonian. Equitorial and Fork. Of these, Dobson and Forks are the easiest to set up and use. Equitorial needs a some experience, trial and error and some advice.

Photographs. Ask when you buy the equipment. Cameras and computers will need extra equipment. The dealer might be prepared to offer you a good deal on this.