Telescopes

[festive1]

I've decided to get a telescope for my son's birthday, he will be turning 7 and loves all things science (especially outer space and geology at the moment). I don't want anything too expensive, but want something that will allow him a better view of the night sky (preferably one we could take pictures with). We live in an urban area, so there's a lot of light pollution and not many stars to be seen with the naked eye (though I understand even looking at the moon with a basic telescope can be quite awesome). We are vacationing in a rural area this summer, so he'll get a chance to really see some stars and hopefully other things as well.
I've seen several people post pics and mention their own stargazing, so I was wondering if anyone would be up for sharing some info about what I should look for in terms of purchasing a beginner's telescope, a guide for things to look at, or a website or two containing such info. I have no clue
Thanks!

[KichigaiNeko]

Pm orogenicman festive. he may be able to help



{Yes I KNOW there are others but your names escape me at the moment}

[festive1]

Will do. I have to admit the photo he posted earlier reminded me to ask!

[Jackalope]

http://www.skyandtelescope.com/howto/how...04526.html

Here's an article that might be useful.

P.S. astrophotography and inexpensive: pick one.

[KichigaiNeko]

Cinj you are an angel!

[festive1]

I'll sacrifice the photo capability to keep cost down I just think he'd enjoy getting to take pictures of what he sees for later perusal.

[Baalzebutt]

I'll sacrifice the photo capability to keep cost down I just think he'd enjoy getting to take pictures of what he sees for later perusal.

Several years ago I spent about $60 on a telescope to see one of the comets.

Turns out that spotting is nearly impossible and stability of the platform is paramount. With this particular scope, even looking at the moon was an exercise in frunstration as it could not be held still enough to get even a passing glance.

I would recommend something better because otherwise, he will just get frustrated at trying to see anything and the scope will end up being unused.

Just my 2¢

[festive1]

Yeah, the site Cthulhu posted puts emphasis on a good mount, but says they don't have to expensive to be effective. So many things to consider, I'm glad I'm checking all this out early so I have time to figure it out… I also found a site for a local astronomy club, which would be good for me to check out and get more info.

P.S. I have to admit that I'm interested in this too, it's not just for the kid Though he will enjoy it too, good mommy-son activity.

[Jackalope]

Cinj you are an angel!

* Jackalope looks in a mirror.

Kichi - might be time to see an optometrist.

[JustAnAtheist]

I'm an astrophotographer & amateur astronomer, in case you need to ask anything