edeemarie Posted November 25, 2013 Share Posted November 25, 2013 And if so, which ones are best? We are going with a science theme for the kids for Christmas this year, but I really can't find a telescope that is kid-friendly and gets good reviews. So do any of you have any suggestions on a good telescope, or if that is not the best option, can you help me decide which binoculars would be best for viewing moon, stars, etc.? Thanks so much:) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
WishboneDawn Posted November 25, 2013 Share Posted November 25, 2013 They're considered a good starter tool and an indispensable accessory for a lit off stargazers period, regardless of age. They can be transported a lot easier and focusing on one area of the night sky is much less finicky. I did a lot of research on them a few years back when I was buying them as a gift. If you simply start with some Google searches like "binoculars for star gazing," or whatever and look for links of serious hobbyists you find excellent advice. The type of prism in the binoculars is important for instance. I should point out that the binoculars that are really good for this are also big and heavy so if you're getting this for a child you may want a mount or tripod. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
edeemarie Posted November 25, 2013 Author Share Posted November 25, 2013 Thank you for mentioning the tripod...I wouldn't have thought to get that. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MomatHWTK Posted November 25, 2013 Share Posted November 25, 2013 My DH would probably say yes, simply because it is difficult to get an equivalent quality telescope without spending quite a bit of $. Plus, it is difficult to align a telescope. DH found a very good telescope but the thing is huge. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
prairiewindmomma Posted November 25, 2013 Share Posted November 25, 2013 We believe so. We own both, and yes, a tripod is essential. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AmyontheFarm Posted November 25, 2013 Share Posted November 25, 2013 I had never thought of this, what a great idea! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
prairiewindmomma Posted November 25, 2013 Share Posted November 25, 2013 I forgot to give my recommendation....look at the Orion catalog. They give good suggestions for a variety of price ranges. The great thing about the binoculars is that you can use them for a variety of purposes. My kids love to watch a few fields away for wild turkeys when visiting family. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Plink Posted November 25, 2013 Share Posted November 25, 2013 The maIn advantage of binoculars is that the field of view is wider, which prevents the disorientation that happens with a telescope. You won't be able to see more detail, but as an inexperienced sky watcher you will, in fact, see more because you will be able to find what you want to see. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
momtoamiracle Posted November 27, 2013 Share Posted November 27, 2013 I prefer binoculars to a telescope, even cheap ones. You can see one object with a telescope, and then the planet moves and you have to keep adjusting. Binoculars are awesome for seeing whole areas in space that are invisible to the naked eye. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
PRTGSw2K Posted December 28, 2013 Share Posted December 28, 2013 (edited) .. Edited July 20, 2016 by PRTGSw2K Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
stripe Posted December 28, 2013 Share Posted December 28, 2013 We borrowed a telescope and had a heck of a time getting it focused on the moon. We found it pretty exhausting, frankly and were ready to stick to binoculars! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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