TeleVue StarBeam Opinions (for Dob)

Hi everyone!

I would like to get opinions on the Tele Vue StarBeam finder. I would like to know how it works and actual use, and how heavy it is (is it much heavier than a Telrad?).

I would be using it (if practical) on my 12.5" f5 dob.

Thanks!

Chuck

Hi Chuck,

I've got a Starbeam on my refractor and Telrad on my dob. The SB is much lighter than the TR since the TR uses 2-AA batteries while the SB uses a light-weight button battery. The SB is nicer looking but functionally, the TR is more useful. Aligning the TR takes me just a few seconds - the SB can take a few minutes. The location of the dot projected by the SB is quite sensitive to eye position and I have some difficulty making sure my eye is always at the same location. I usually end up using a low power eyepiece to center the target before moving to higher power. The TR has a nice bulls-eye pattern and its projection is much less sensitive to eye position. With the TR, I can easily get within the field of higher power eyepieces in one step so I find the TR more practical. If a fancier, more compact TR were available, I'd replace the SB without hesitation.

Good luck - Tom

I've used most of the widely available unit finders...Rigel, Telrad, Stellarvue and Starbeam. Here are my thoughts:

Starbeam: the coolest looking unit finder, most expensive, and probably most overrated. Dot is too large, though the window is is clear, which makes it easier to see dim stars.

Rigel: Excellent value, stands high off the OTA so dew is very seldom a problem (at least out here in N. Calif). 2 degree concentric aiming circles facilitate star-hopping. I've used it on both dobs and refractors. Small size makes it especially useful on refractors

Telrad: 4 degree concentric aiming circles make it great for star hopping. Big and dorky looking. Dew always a problem if there's any moisture in air. Most of big dob users seem to favor the Telrad. Wonderful views if you can keep it free of dew. Good value.

Stellarvue: small finder dot is nice. No concentric aiming circles as with Rigel and Telrad. Big aiming window, but the plastic through which you must look is tinted! This cuts down light transmission, not a good thing at night. Nevertheless, the SV represents good value.

Bottom Line: go with Telrad or Rigel if you're using a dob. Avoid the Starbeam. It's looks and construction quality do not make up for its high price and lack of concentric aiming circles.

Rob Mackie