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FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Telescope Reviews
Maybe you're looking for a starter telescope for a child and you can't find a review of the right product or price range. Or maybe you're looking for facts about telescopes that you can't find here.
You will find answers to many of our most frequently asked questions about astronomy equipment in this section. If you can't, then feel free to email us, and we'll do our best to help.
How do you rate the astronical products that you review?
We use them, obviously. Sometimes, being in the UK, this can take time, just waiting for clear, dark skies.
We rate telescopes and binoculars on the following criterion:
Quality of the optics: we look for true colour, lack of distortion - particularly near the edges - ability to resolve nebulae, brightness compared to others of equal aperture.
Build Quality: astronomical products are not cheap. If they are, you are probably looking at a high street generalist store or a catalogue store. We highly recomment that you only buy from reputable specialists who can give you good advice on equipment that could and should last a lifetime.
Ease of use: There's no use buying a telescope that requires a neck transplant from a giraffe in order to use. We look at ease of use, ease of transport and assembly, as well as setup time.
Value for Money: We factor in the cost to our rating, on the basis that most astronomers want good value for their hard earned cash and don't have bottomless pockets.
Customer Service: We also take account of warranties, support responsiveness and customer service. Did your equipment arrive when it should have? When something goes wrong, are you treated well as a valued customer? Is there a dedicated and efficient support procedure? No matter how good any product, you can end up hating it if you're treated badly when you've spent hard-earned money.
How independent are your reviews of telescopes and binoculars?
As independent as we believe they could possibly be. We have no tie or interest in recommending ant particular brand or reseller. We have a love for astronomy and a desire to see that you get what's most suitable for your needs at the best price possible, with the best customer care and after sales service from trustworthy manufacturers and suppliers.
Do you review telescopes for kids?
You bet we do! We have children of our own, some of who are keen astronomers (and some of these still in single figures) and they give us their opinions on the products - they really get to use them and let us know what they think. Then we let you know - it's their opinions that count.
How should I use your reviews?
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You don't have a review for a product I want reviewed. Can you help?
We may be able to get the product to test, if there is sufficient demand. Otherwise, we may be able to point you to a good source of information for that product. If you email us, we will do our best.
