I'm new to star-gazing and want to buy an astronimical binoculars.?

[Neko74]

I've read so many books on astronomy and star-gazing, but I never had a chance to really look into space. As a beginner I heard that binoculars are good for starters, before buying an actual telescope. But which ones are good? 7x50, 11x70, what is the best one? Are they expensive? What is eye relief on binoculars? Has anyone ever had a binocular for star-gazing? And what can you actually see in space with one? Oh god, I know too many questions....Sorry. By the way I live in UK.
Thank you!

[Michael Steen]

A good binocular (yes, that's technically the correct term, though it sounds wierd) is an absolutely essential item for the amateur astronomer. I have two--10X50 and 11X70--and they are indispensable. You will be amazed at how rich and full of stars the sky (especially the Milky Way) is when you first look through them.
The first pair I have is about the maximum size for holding in your hands while you stargaze, and the 2nd, while delivering much better views due to its superior light-gathering abiity, must be mounted on a tripod.
Go to <www.bigbinoculars.com> for some good deals. My first pair, though, I bought in Target for less than $50, and I'm very very happy with them. You don't need to spend a lot of cash.
As to what you can see--stars! Lots of them. You will see double stars, some clusters (the Pleiades is GORGEOUS at this time of year), and the Orion Nebula. Planets will be disappointing because the magnification isn't great enough for detail, but with 10X and above you'll be in for some real treats with the moon.
Clear skies!

[Vinnie]

Hi Neko,

Welcome to the forum.

Of all the various sizes and styles of binocular, I am going to suggest that the universally most common used for general astronomy are 10x50 porros. Mainly because anything bigger becomes too difficult to keep steady when held freehand.

[powerwindows1985]

I have a pair of Orion Scnenix 10x50's that I really like. They were only $100. Not sure how they compare to others as these are the only ones I have looked through.