6" or 8" Reflector?

tspence

Hi all:

I’m choosing a scope mostly for back-yard use looking at planets, moon and Messier cat. I’m mostly trying for the ooh and aah factor from my 2 kids - 5 and 7 years old.

I’m choosing between a 6" or 8" reflector w/eq mount and motor drive. The question I have is: is an 8" too big for views of the planets and the moon? How would Saturn look through each? I’m inclined to go with the 8", but it is much more expensive.

Also, does anyone know of places to buy good used scopes (besides Ebay)?

Thanks all,

Tim

asrodarryl

Well the bigger the mirror or lense the more light gathering power you'll have. Now I know that throught an 8" scope you will be able to make out single stars in M-13. Resolution is much better when you puchase a bigger scope. One person can also handle an 8" where any bigger it will be to much of a hassle to set up and it will sit in the closet instead of being used. I've never had a 6" but I know my 4 1/2" scope makes m-13 fuzzy and I cant make out single stars.
Now the planet Saturn, you can see the ring with small telescopes.If you use larger scopes, the detail that you see will increase.
Hope this helps
astrodarryl

tspence

Thanks astrodarryl!

Tim

6" or 8" Reflector?

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