Visual Observing

Hello, I am new to both astronomy and CTAS.

I’m seeking to make acquaintance with some other members and get advice on getting started. For instance, I would like to know what type of telescope under 200 would be good so I can learn some basics. Before I sink much more into equipment I’d line to see if astronomy will turn out to be a hobby (or more) to which I can become really committed.

I’ll be 60 years old and science-minded, but have not seriously applied myself to any scientific endeavor since I was 20.

Thanks in advance for any help you can give,

Scott Stevens

Hello Scott & welcome to CTAS!  I recommend a dobsonian telescope. The most mirror for the money and very simple to learn. 

Thanks, for your answer. Got so into figuring out what a Dobsonian scope was looking at them that I spent two days looking at things before I realized I hadn’t responded to your Hello Scott & welcome to CTAS!  I recommend a dobsonian telescope. The most mirror for the money and very simple to learn. 
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Hi Scott,

Great that you want to get started. I recommend before you buy anything that you come to a few member star parties and talk to the folks who have set up telescopes, and look through their scopes and get feel for how things work, and what feels good to you.

Our next member star party is this Saturday.

Willie's recommendation of a Dobsonian is a good one. They are simple and easy to use, but you also have to know where to point it, and this where the learning comes in, and besides doing your own reading, getting with other astronomers is a good way to learn.

Dick

I saw that the party was scheduled for Saturday and I’m hoping to get out there.

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Hi Scott,

Great that you want to get started. I recommend before you buy anything that you come to a few member star parties and talk to the folks who have set up telescopes, and look through their scopes and get feel for how things work, and what feels good to you.

Our next member star party is this Saturday.

Willie's recommendation of a Dobsonian is a good one. They are simple and easy to use, but you also have to know where to point it, and this where the learning comes in, and besides doing your own reading, getting with other astronomers is a good way to learn.

Dick

I will definitely give those a look. Thanks!

Scott

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I agree with Willie and Dick.  Regarding learning the sky, I recommend looking into some of the Astro League's Observing Programs. They are fun to do as well as helping one learn the sky. Perhaps a good one to start with is the Constellation Program,  Northern Sky. 
Welcome. Looking forward to meeting you. 
Johnny S