Getting into Astronomy is easy, and does not have to be expensive, First you can start with simple visual viewing, There are many apps available on Android and IOS. See useful applications tab.
Binoculars, some people start off with Binoculars, there are many pairs available, these are not expensive and can be a good start for astronomy.
Telescopes, This is where things get interesting, So many choices, so many questions.
Think! What do i want to see? Please don’t just rush out and buy a Telescope, as you may well be disappointed.
Speak to Astronomers, Speak to Astronomy Shops, they will always help you with questions.
When I first started, I had many questions, the main one was, what is Focal length, what does it mean? Well, a short or small focal length {f:4) will give you a wide view, where as a long or larger focal length (F:9) will give you closer views, more magnification. So, if you want to view planets, then I suggest a Telescope around F:7 and above. Wide views can be amazing, so please don’t discount this option.
The mount or tripod is very important, you want this to be sturdy, some that you can get, don’t really rate in my opinion, they are too flimsy, so if you can, before you buy a telescope or a Tripod to put Binoculars on, check out which is a sturdy one and which will move very easily in a breeze.
When you look to buy a telescope, there is another thing to consider, Refractor or Reflector?
Refractor – One big lens on one end, a small lens on the other end (Eyepiece) The light enters the big lens, travels down the telescope tube to the eyepiece ( Small Lens)
Reflector – This uses a mirror to reflect the gathered light, back up the tube and into a second mirror, which then reflects the image into the eyepeice
Astronomy Outreach by GC 