Like many telescopes of this type, this is a fine little starter scope if used with care. It is very lightweight and needs a light touch to perform well. Avoid using high magnifications as the best views will be with the lower powers and the mount is easier to use at low powers. Consider replacing the eyepieces with economical standard eyepieces when you get a chance. Also, a search of the Web for sites specializing in small telescopes would be helpful. For the cost, this scope is a good value if used with a little tender loving care.

An inexpensive telescope of this sort can provide a good intro to astronomy for a young person, when proper guidance is provided. A good source of information for this purpose can be found here: http://www.cloudynights.com/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php/Cat/0 The Beginners and General Astronomy sections should be especially useful. Drop by and ask questions. We'd be happy to help!

Amateur astronomy is the purest of inquisitive pursuits. The contemplation of the greatest of mysteries is the noblest of hobbies. Most of us acolytes of the infinite abyss started our journey with a telescope very much like this one. The 60mm "department store" achromatic refractor on a spindly mount has been the First Test for those seeking the path of celestial enlightenment. So, have I used this particular scope? No. Have I used one like it? Yes. In fact, I've used dozens very similar to this one. Optically, they typically are of decent quality. It's everything else that frustrates the novice; the vibration-prone wiggly mount, poor finderscope, over-powered eyepieces. Therein lies its power. The child whose curiosity in the greatest contemplations possible by humankind is so easily quelled by these trials and tribulations really isn't cut out for the hobby. If you're familiar with the XBox, astronomy is the polar opposite of it. Astronomy doesn't entertain you; it invites you to challenge yourself. So how do I feel about this particular scope? It helps me sleep peacefully at night. It is scopes such as this one that keep the barbarian hordes at bay. If the buyer can survive this scope with their enthusiasm for the oldest of sciences, visual astronomy, intact, I would be delighted to name them "peer". All others, stick with the XBox. ;-)

Seriously, if you are looking to have a telescope to store in a closet, this is the scope, because it will not get used. There is absolutely no way that anyone will ever be able to use the advertised 600+ power. 28 and 64 x magnification would be tops for this scope. the mount will jiggle and sway which means higher magnifications will be impossible to use. You can find some good information on a usable first telescope here: http://john-kulczycki.suite101.com/best-first-telescopethe-eight-inch-dobsonian-telescope-a242246 Or you can get your child an 8x50 or 10x50 binocular and have an instrument that can show four moons around Jupiter. Add a good book like Terrance Dickinson's "Nightwatch" and you child is set for a good introduction to Astronomy John Kulczycki