New Telescope

Hi, I am relatively new to telescopes...and this forum. I need help choosing what telescope to get. These are the Orions that I am looking for. My main ambition is to have a telescope I can see the main planets with (well) and I would like to be able to look into deep space. I am not at all concerned with terrestrial objects. I have done quite a bit of looking around and this is the best I can come up with, I just need some advice from some people who know more than I do. Thanks!

http://www.telescope.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?itemID=382&itemType=PRODUCT&RS=1&keyword=

http://www.telescope.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?itemID=288&itemType=PRODUCT&RS=1&keyword=

http://www.telescope.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?itemID=106597&itemType=PRODUCT&RS=1&keyword=

http://www.telescope.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?itemID=111184&itemType=PRODUCT&iMainCat=4&iSubCat=13&iProductID=111184&relateInfo=3&add=yes&RS=1&keyword=#tabLink

I believe Anacortes sells these type scopes. I would give them a call and ask for their opinion. This way it helps keep Astromart alive and they wouldn't steer you wrong. Just my 2 cents.

Bob

I know this is a bit more than the ones you listed...by $100, but it has advantages:

http://www.buytelescopes.com/product.asp?t=&pid=9702&m=

1. longer focal length so you don't have to buy more premium eyepieces to correct for coma in fast mirrors - this is a biggie as eyepieces can be expensive so this longer focal length lets you save money here. Also longer focal length better for higher power observing, like planets and moon, so can get higher magnification with a more comfortable longer focal length eyepiece.

2. a bit more aperture so able to bring in deep space objects a little better and open and globular clusters much better.

3. has an object locator so very easy to find things in sky whether newbie or experienced!

4. is a dobsonian so set up and using it is extremely intuitive.

All around a great chioce. If the $100 more is too much, then get the version without the object locator...but I wouldn't...it's fun having no effort to find things For me it's all about maximizing observing time and less time for fiddling finding stuff.

-Bill

The beginners forum would be a better place to ask, this one's for eyepieces.