Hey everyone,

I am looking to purchase a new telescope very soon and I would like some advise on a good scope to get.  I have a price range of about $500.  I know that does not seem like much to spend if I want a good scope, but that is the best I can do for now.  I really enjoy astrophotography, but it is not a must with a new scope. I also enjoy viewing deep-sky objects as well as planetary objects.  I have a Meade GoTo telescope right now and it is time to upgrade.  I really like the GoTo features, but I don't think I can get a better computerized scope for the money I can spend.  I have been looking at a few Dobsonian telescopes, but I am not sure yet.  Basically, I want an excellent quality, large aperture telescope.  If anyone can give me some advise; I would really appreciate it.

Thanks.

 http://www.telescope.com/control/product/~product_id=27183

I've had my eye on this one for a little while now. Its a tad more than 500, but if you saved up a couple more weeks, it would work. 

I have a 6 right now, and its great, but I've exauseted what I can see with it so...

Good luck.

For around $500 you can get an 8" or 10" Dob, more aperture for less dollars. They are not goto but you get to learn the sky.

Welcome to the forums!

I'm with Jodoak, you can get a nice Dob for that price. Also, you may want to purchase a book called NightWatch. Great book that will help you get started.

Good Luck

CG

Here is a Skywatcher 10" truss tube Dob for $495..quite a deal. This makes it very portable.

http://www.telescopes.com/telescopes/dobsonian-telescopes/skywatcher10inchdobsoniantelescope.cfm

JJ

I am leaning toward getting the Orion SkyQuest XT10 Classic Dobsonian Telescope.  Does anyone have one?  Is it a good telescope?

AstronomyGuy:

I am leaning toward getting the Orion SkyQuest XT10 Classic Dobsonian Telescope.  Does anyone have one?  Is it a good telescope?

I have one and find it to be an great scope for he money paid. I have no negatives to report. The OTA is big and a little heavy at 31 pounds but fits in my trucks back seat with no problem for transport. I have found objects with apparent magnitudes down to a 10 or 11 and I am sure in a real dark sight you could see objects with apparent magnitudes of 14 maybe more.