Being able to shop on the internet without a salesman trying to make a commission, will make it easier for you to pick out the right telescope to fit your family in price and capabilities. Here are just a few things to get you started shopping. There are basically three types of telescopes. They are the reflector, the refractor, and a combination of the two called a catadioptric. After you figure out which of these is right for you then all you have to do is add the bells and whistles you want. It's just like buying a new TV set and getting the extra channels.

A reflector telescope uses mirrors to reflect the images you are observing back to the lens in the eyepiece. A refractor telescope scope only uses lenses in the eyepiece to bring the objects closer for you to view. A catadioptric combines both lenses and mirrors so it comes in a more compact size. Each is good in a different way. You just have to determine what features you want your telescope to have and match it to a model.

All telescopes have three basic functions. The first thing is to enhance the light gathering power of the human eye to make dim objects appear brighter, second is to magnify or make smaller objects appear larger, and lastly to make clearer the details on distant objects. Understanding magnification is fairly easy. The number next to the "X" on magnification is how many times the object will appear bigger than it is. So 20X to 80X means you can see something 20 to 80 times larger through the scope. Resolution is next to understand. Do you want to see a whole crater of the moon or be able to see all the little craters inside the big one. The biggest aperture number on the scope that fits your budget will give you the best image display.

With a little investigating on your part and help from a reliable retailer you will be able to find just the right telescope to interest your kids and get the quality time with them that means so much these days. Get to know them in a fun learning way before they are grown up and move far away. Good luck and great exploring of the "final frontier."
 

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