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So, here's my deal: I have a 10 year old daughter who is interested in space, and wants to build a telescope. She doesn't have the knowledge to do it from scratch, for sure, and neither do I, not by a long shot. Would there be kits that might be doable for us, that would really walk total novices through the process every step of the way, and provide us with a good learning experience (and if so, where would we find them)? Or are we being ridiculously over-ambitious?
You could read an article on telescopes for astronomy, & then keep an eye out for a decent used telescope @ a thrift store. I've seen them there, but I've never looked into how suitable they might be. Then you can check out some books on astronomy with a moderate telescope from your library, do the sky map thing, & see if interest continues. (A decent pair of binoculars might do for starters, if you have a pair already. Even better if you can hook them up to a tripod - steadier view, & your arms don't wear out.)
If it does, then you can start looking @ kits or purchase a better used 'scope through newspaper, e-bay, etc. Or you can hook up with your local astronomy club, if there is one. They typically do viewing sessions on a regular basis, & maybe do 'scope orientation & skymaps, what to look for in a beginner or intermediate 'scope, & so on. Failing that, check with the library, see if they carry Sky & Telescope magazine (I think it is - or just ask for some help). I'm sure they'll be glad to answer any questions they can. Edmund Scientific used to carry 'scope kits - but it was a kinda niche market for them, & that was a long time ago.
Best of luck with it. NM has beautiful viewing weather, most nights.
Come back and let us know how it goes. Picture of the completed telescope would be really nice.
If we go that route, will do.
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Look, up in the sky!
