S&T: Craig Michael Utter

There is no right answer to this question, just opinions — and here’s mine. In the lower price range, I usually recommend keeping things simple. You can’t have everything for $500, so spend your money on good optics and a simple, sturdy mount. In that price range, I usually recommend a 6- or 8-inch Dobsonian reflector. If you have decided that you simply must have a computer-controlled telescope, try to up your budget to around $800. “Go To” scopes in this price range tend to be more robust, reliable, and accurate than cheaper ones.