Choosing a Telescope Based on the Mount

In this video, we're discussing the advantages and disadvantages of the four basic types of telescope mounts.

[GarnettLeary]

I will recommend this video to our astronomy club. Short and to the point. I considered making a similar video myself but now I don't have to. I wish you included fork mounts and go to platforms, but the kids I work with probably don't need the more expensive setups anyway. Good luck to you sir. Clear skies.

[Paladin]

I plan on buying a telescope and would consider the EQ mount but my set up would be in my back garden and because of the layout, our house is blocking the north star. Is there another way to allign the telescope without using the north star?

Also Great video, well explained and very informative :)

[michaellewis]

I recently got a Celestron Powerseeker 127EQ and I was immediately blown away by the fact that I could see Jupiter and Saturn. However, I quickly found out the complexities around Astrophotography and the importance of collimation as well as the mount stability. I've heard many negative comments about the scope because of it's Bird-Jones design.

As a result I'm already thinking about the next telescope. What is the real advantage/disadvantage of having a Newtonian Reflector vs a Refractor? My understanding is that the refractors generally have a longer focal length but smaller aperture which may be better for looking at details of planets. Where the reflectors are generally better equipped to look at Nebula and Galaxy over a wider range. Is there a general rule of thumb?

[freddiyfredericks]

Hi John. I just purchased a T.S optics 80/480 refractor, I am a complete beginner, what mount would you suggest? Does any make of telescope go on any make of mount and vise versa? Thank you.