Everyone that wants to get into astronomy wants to get the cheapest telescope possible, and just because the box that the cheap telescope comes in, says that you will be able to view planets and galaxies, don’t hold your breathe on that thinking that you are going to get a good view when you are only willing to invest $50 into that telescope.
You can ask any expert out there, that if you are not willing to spend at least $500 on a telescope, then you are more than likely going to be disappointed with your purchase. But then again, many of the stargazing experts suggest that if you are on a budget, then to invest in a pair of astronomy binoculars first, as you will be more pleased with the results and views that you get, for what it’s worth that is.
Plus this will give you a chance to get to know how to use star charts, and how to plot when the planets in our solar system are most likely to be visible. I have already talked about all the types of telescopes that are out there, and depending on how serious you are about stargazing, will determine how much money that you are willing to put into the hobby.
First thing you have to decide is what are you expecting to do with your first telescope. If you want to get into astrophotography, and submit your photos to magazines such as Astronomy Magazine, then you are looking at investing a couple thousand dollars, but believe me, the images and pictures of the stars that you will be able to get will make them well worth it.
Another thing to consider when purchasing your first telescope, is the location of where you will be using the telescope the most. If you live in a populated city with lots of lights, you are only setting yourself up for failure, as the light pollution will do nothing but frustrate you. If you are out in the country, or on the mountains, you will see that there are thousands of more visible stars from the naked eye than there are in the city.
I hope that this clears up questions that you are having when looking for a cheap telescope for sale. Don’t get me wrong, it is possible to get a good telescope for cheap, but it is going to take some ground work, and more than likely you will be buying it used, this is where the bargains come in. From people that used to be big into astronomy, and for one reason or another lost the passion for it, and want to get a little bit of money for there telescope.
You may get lucky and find a good cheap telescope for sale at your local flea market, or maybe even a yard sale down the road from you. There are also lots of people putting up their unused telescopes on internet auction sites, while if you are checking daily, you will be sure to find a great bargain on a telescope for sale sooner or later.