Binoculars for Astronomy - Recommendations
The best first telescope for a new astronomer is a pair of binoculars.
- They are relatively inexpensive compared to a decent telescope. They are easier to carry and require virtually no setup. They get you out observing much more often.
- They are easy to point at anything in the sky. Just look up and put them in front of your eyes.
- They have multiple use. You can use them for other activities such as watching sports, birding or sightseeing.
Even with a big scope, I still bring my binoculars to every viewing session. They are that useful.
When choosing traditional binoculars, bigger is better but not so big you can't hold them for long. Look at the "Power x Objective Lens Size" equation. The values of 10x50 are the sweet spot between large enough to capture plenty of light but not be excessively heavy and difficult to hold. With bigger binos you will need assistance to hold them for extended periods of observing. Even before you begin to tire, you'll have trouble holding them still.
I have the Nikon 7245 Action Ex Extreme 10 X 50 mm Binoculars and I am extremely satisfied. They work well for night time observing as well as for use during the daytime viewing birds, landscapes or sports. Highly recommended!.
Image stabilization can help keep the image still. It's a nice feature, expensive, but many users swear by them. I have use the Canon 15x50 Image Stabilization All Weather Binoculars and thought they were terrific. They really do remove the shakes.
I have list a few types in a different price ranges that are all appropriate for astronomy. Pick the pair that fits your preference. Have fun!
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