Which type/size of binoculars are good for astronomy?

[12.99]

Looking to get into astronomy, but have been advised not to buy a reflector/refractor straight away and get some decent bino's for a while first. Do you agree? If so what binos are best?

[Arny Moots]

10x50s will give you a fantastic view, taking you down to about magnitude 10 stars.

Don't go for high magnification - go for aperture size (that's the 50 in the 10x50s) Also 7x50s and 8x50s are excellent.

[stafford_stargazer]

15x70's or 20x80's will also be very good,although a tripod is really useful with these as there a bit heavier.

Gaz

[stafford_stargazer]

15x70's or 20x80's will be good,bigger the main lens the more light it lets in,but be warned these will need a tripod to get descent results and they are heavier to hand hold.
Gaz

[Joe Lalumia]

I would suggest a pair of 10x50mm as your FIRST binocular. The ones above as your SECOND binocular.

Something like this:

Orion Scenix 10x50 Wide-Angle Binoculars | Orion Telescopes & Binoculars

[GriffinBF]

It doesn't really matter as the info provided is relevant for anyone at anytime, but as a heads up this question was asked then remained unanswered for 2 1/2 years.

[tony884]

Binos are a very good starter choice, Would advise 7x50's. Good point GriffinBF, how does this question come to the top of the tree? Has it been resubmitted?

[GriffinBF]

.. how does this question come to the top of the tree? Has it been resubmitted?

They get bumped to the front of the line when a reply is added. It's never a problem to have them dredged up, although it's helpful that people know they are talking to a ghost.

[abhi06]

I am not sure if these "Sehfeld - Original Russian Binoculars with Target + Military Use Type 8x50mm" are suitable for astronomical use.
Actually I found them while I was searching for 7/8x50 mm binos and more than that they are the cheapest brands online.

[Arny Moots]

those bins don't look worth it to me.

It's always wise to look through binoculars before buying and get the best you can afford. I buy second hand.

Check for focusing, that they are lined up in both eyes, that they are multi-coated. Look at a telegraph wire against the sky. Better bins will show a nice dark line, cheaper will show red and blue glows on each side. (chromatic aberration).

8x50 are good for night sky. Very good, but only if the optics are not going to let you down.