SCJ429 wrote:You will find that cheap spotting scopes will be disappointing. The best I have seen have been Swarovski and Leica. For out in the field I use my scope or some binos.
Celestron make some cheap telescopes that are good for star gazing or looking at Jupiter.
I agree. The pentaxes are upper mid range, close to the top end. $900 without eyepiece. I'd go as low as $500 for decent optics, durability and housing waterproof and gas purged a must) - was looking at the vortex diamond or leopold ventana around these levels too.
Real astro scopes are far superior for night viewing yes, especially their ability for right angle viewing, dont break your neck looking straight up, and the mirror size. I used to have an old york optical 4.5", then an 8" skywatcher which was a beast. Now just have a little 5" tabletop dobsonian. I still like a bit of casual stargazing with a spotter as its easier to bring camping or to local lookouts etc