What's a GOTO Telescope (Is It Worth Your Investment?)
Born stargazers, approach! This guide will help you navigate the celestial treasures awaiting your eyes, thanks to the marvels of modern technology.
Oh, GOTO, what a dizzying delight
If you spotted a telescope boasting the "GOTO" label, you might wonder, what lies beneath this enchanting name? In reality, it's a bundle featuring:
- Optical Tube Assembly (OTA) – your trusty telescope
- Mount – the device, like a faithful guide, that steers the telescope's direction
- Tripod – for steady support
- Accessories – like eyepieces and barlow lenses
But, not the telescope itself that's "GOTO;" it's the mount that carries the tag.
Computer whizzes, make way for the GOTO whizz
GOTO telescopes are electronically powered devices – an upgrade from manual mounts. They work out your location, using date and time, then guide you to the astronomical wonders above on your very night. Some systems may require manual input, while others calculate on their own.
Choose your target from a list of options (planets, galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, oh my!), and it'll direct the telescope to align itself and track your chosen celestial darling as it glides across the heavens. Modern Chariot of the Gods, GOTO can be controlled via handheld controllers or smart devices like smartphones and tablets.
GOTO vs. Computerized: the age-old debate
You may observe labels like "GOTO" and "computerized" without knowing the difference. Fear not, for they are one and the same, interchangeably used by manufacturers. Technically, older computerized mounts could track objects but not automatically find them (you had to point them first). GOTO technology has since updated this, enabling the telescope to literally "go to" the objects of your dreams. In today's world, all computerized and GOTO devices will direct you to your celestial desired destination.
Pros and Cons of the GOTO Wonders
GOTO Guaranteed Perks:
- Clean sailing: Minimal knowledge about astronomy required, removing possible frustration for beginners.
- Speedy Stargazing: Save precious time and discover many celestial wonders during a session compared to manual hunting.
GOTO Downsides:
- Hefty Cost: GOTO telescopes can be hefty on the wallet, making them a significant investment.
- Energy Needs: They require power from batteries or AC. While enjoyable, this may mean charging batteries before use or staying near an outlet with potentially complicated cables.
- Limited Sky Education: In a way, GOTO technology can lessen the traditional learning experience of finding the night sky on your own.
Think GOTO is the way forward for you? Delve into our guide on The Best Computerized Telescopes.
Frequently Asked GoTo Queries:
Do I require a GOTO Telescope?
GOTO telescopes make stargazing easier and enable you to observe many more celestial wonders, albeit at a higher cost compared to manual options.
How to use a GOTO Telescope?
A GOTO telescope scans the night sky, asks you what you'd like to see, then points the telescope towards it and tracks it as it moves across the sky.
Can a GOTO Telescope be used manually?
Yes, GOTO telescopes come with manual operation capabilities.
What does GoTo mean in astronomy?
GoTo refers to technology found in telescope mounts, which can locate and track astronomical objects for you in the night sky.
Verdict: The GOTO Offer
Overall, we highly recommend GOTO telescopes, especially for beginners. However, consider if the cost is within your budget.
For example:- A basic, manual backyard telescope package may cost around $200.- The same telescope with GOTO capabilities will likely cost double or more, making it an investment for dedicated stargazers.
Think, dream, explore – now go forth and gaze upon the cosmos!
Related Articles:- The Best Computerized Telescopes- Different Types of Telescope Mounts Explained- Altazimuth vs Equatorial Mounts- What Are Telescope Mount Encoders?
About the Author
Anthony Robinson is the mastermind behind Skies & Scopes, a virtual haven for amateur astronomy and astrophotography enthusiasts. His work has been graced by publications such as Forbes, the Guardian, DIY Photography, PetaPixel, Digital Camera World, and more – learn more.
- Bluesky
- In a GOTO telescope, the mount is the electronic device that determines your location based on date and time, and guides you to various astronomical wonders in the night sky.
- When using a GOTO telescope, you can select your target from a list of options (such as planets, galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters), and it will direct the telescope to align itself and track the chosen celestial object as it moves.
- GOTO technology is a development from manual mounts, allowing for more accurate and automatic tracking of celestial objects, and can be controlled via handheld controllers or smart devices like smartphones and tablets.
- While GOTO telescopes offer benefits like ease of use and time efficiency, they may also have drawbacks such as higher cost, energy requirements, and a potential reduction in traditional learning. Therefore, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons before making a purchase.
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