How best to use my old scope

[Christopher Ferro]

Hi everyone,

Several years ago, I got a telescope as a gift. As with many of you, I don't use it nearly as much as I would like or should. It's a Meade newtonian with a motorized mount. The specs say it's 130mm and f/7.9.

What's the best use for a scope like that? The tube is rather longer than I would like, for portability, but there must be some use that is better for this size and length scope.

I'd like to get good use out of this thing before I think about upgrading or switching to a different scope.

Thanks...

CJSF

[aurora]

I'm confused by the question. What advice are you looking for? Not to be flippant, but the best use of it would be to look at nighttime objects in the sky. At that size and focal length, you should get reasonable views of both planets and deep sky objects.

[RickJ]

I agree with Aurora, its an all around scope. The length of the tube is actually rather a good thing as it gives you a focal length well suited for all around use. Shorter it would be difficult to get high power views due to the short focal length eyepieces needed. I consider a 40 to 60 inch focal length about the best for general viewing with a scope of that size. You'd be on your knees with a much shorter focal length as well. No fun on dew covered grass.

Find an astronomy club and take it to a meeting or better yet a star party. They will show you how to get the most out of it.

Rick

[Christopher Ferro]

Sorry for the vagueness... Rick, you've answered what I think I was trying to ask :-)

I knew that long tubes v. short tubes made a difference, but not what that difference was.

I used to belong to an area club, but that sort of didn't work out so well... I'll give it another go at some point.

Thanks.

CJSF