Would You Recommend?

Hi folks

I've been asked to recommend a scope for a beginner, I have seen a Celestron Astromaster 90 EQ for sale for €100. I've read some encouraging reviews on the Web, but my main concern is that this is an f/11 scope, the field of view is going to be quite narrow and is my friend going to be restricted to the Moon, planets, double stars and the brighter DSOs? I don't want to burn his interest with a scope that does not deliver.

One of the main points is that it is only €100.

Advice please.

Paul

What about a cheap dobsonian Paul? great light gathering power, easy to move about once set up, and a low f value giving a decent wide viw

Keith.

Keith has a point, Paul. You might get a 6" Dob second hand for €150 - €200 (with eyepieces), a little more dosh would get him an 8" Dob (c. €300/€350 price tag second hand), and it would be more of an investment at this aperture.

Seanie.

That was my thinking also, the 90mm objective, while a good size lens, combined with the f/11 focal length was steering me away from this scope.

The lad is keen to get a scope, talking to his parents they are thinking of getting him one for Christmas, I believe that the best option is to get him to hold on until then, talk to him, and inform him of the benefits of a bigger scope.

Thanks for the replies gentlemen, Christmas isn't that far away.

Paul