[Chaos-l] Question about telescope

[Allen Davis]

Michael Camp, who has been observing with us constantly at Medoc for a year
now, bought the 10" Zhumell and it is a very good value.  The optics seem
nice, and the scope is solid

 

It is always hard to tell someone to get THIS scope or THAT scope, but
personally, regardless of other variables, I tell people that aperture IS
the most important thing if you want to see clusters and nebulae.  I would
always go with a 6 to 10" over a 3 to 4" scope.  The Dobsonian mount is
probably the most stable, simple, and easiest.  It seems to be the least
expensive way to get a serviceable scope that will last increased interest
and use, and it is something that one can continue to use for varied
observing.  A 3 to 4 inch scope, no matter what the quality, will not be the
most versatile in my opinion.  

 

I vote for the Zhumell's or Orions in this category.  allen

 

From: chaos-l-bounces at rtpnet.org [mailto:chaos-l-bounces at rtpnet.org] On
Behalf Of John Miller
Sent: Monday, May 23, 2011 1:43 PM
To: michelle s; chaos-l at rtpnet.org
Subject: Re: [Chaos-l] Question about telescope

 

Check out the Zhumell 8" dobsonian at:
http://www.telescopes.com/telescopes/dobsonian-telescopes/8197+8198+8209.cfm

 

I recently bought the 10" version and am very pleased with it, both
optically and mechanically.  Also, it has a number of features that the
Orions don't (2 speed focuser, 2" eyepiece, laser collimator, mirror cooling
fan, correct image finder), all for $399 including shipping.  Another nice
aspect of the Zhumell versus the Orion are the bearings on both axes.  The
altitude motion has adjustable tension and this really helps in balancing
when using different weight eyepieces.  And the azimuth motion is on a
roller bearing instead of Teflon pads like the Orions - much smoother
motions all around.  While I think Orion puts out quality products and you
can't really go wrong there, the Zhumells represent an exceptional value
given the quality and all of the extra features you get.  Good luck!

 

John Miller

From: chaos-l-bounces at rtpnet.org [mailto:chaos-l-bounces at rtpnet.org] On
Behalf Of michelle s
Sent: Monday, May 23, 2011 10:51 AM
To: chaos-l at rtpnet.org
Subject: [Chaos-l] Question about telescope

 


Hi, my son and I want to buy our first telescope. We want easy to use but a
good quality one that won't break the bank, and we won't want to replace
after a few months. From what I've been reading on the internet, the Orion
skyquest xt8 looks like a great one. Can anyone give us advice about it? Is
it worth getting this one over the xt6, or is there an entirely different
one that is preferable?
He is anxious for me to order one NOW, so pls advise. Also, I'd prefer to
purchase used, as they are pretty pricey new. No idea where to find one
used.
Thanks,
Michelle

 

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