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What is the best equipment for a child?

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Small hands don’t mean a small mind. Children become wonderful amateur astronomers and many of them find complete delight in a pair of very rugged binoculars. For the youngest, the best are inexpensive, able to withstand inquisitive hands and the inevitable drop! Many models are coated with durable rubber on breakable edges at no additional expense.

Like binoculars, there are telescopes better suited to young hands—but they don’t come from your local department store. Many reputable companies offer durable, practical telescopes that are able to withstand learning hands and develop inquisitive minds! They range from small tabletop models that can be carried on a shoulder strap, to larger types that require nothing more than a starry night. The very best of these for a young child is one that has no complicated mount system and durable optics to withstand abuse.

Children’s telescopes available from an astronomical dealer are very close in price to those available in a department store. The few extra dollars you might spend will mean the difference between a scope that falls apart immediately, or one your child will have for years!

If your child is older, then they are quite ready for an intermediate telescope. You want to get them something they will use! Look for a quality name in optics, a sturdy mount, and a size in aperture that suits your budding astronomer. Many young adults will develop a lifelong passion from their beginning years with a telescope—so quality is very much an issue. Poor performance will mean a quick loss of interest, while a quality telescope will endure into adulthood.

Next Page: I live in the city, what type of equipment should I choose?

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