This scope is a very nice option for a beginner. It has enough aperture to be acceptable. Performance will be comparable to a 5 inch Newtonian and it does not require the confusing-for-beginners collimation. The optics are not bad, especially for this price range. The mount is tolerable. The most important factor for a beginner is the revolutionary plate solving software you use with the scope. It is a real game changer for the beginner! That means that the scope costs a bit more than other comparable scopes. But the added cost is well worth it!
Do not buy the two cheapest scopes in the Starsense line (with an LT in the name). Anything with a DX in the name is going to be a great purchase. If you have the money go for the Starsense Explorer 8 inch Dobsonian. The one I reviewed here is probably the easiest and friendliest of the line for a “beginner level” price. There is a nearly identical version of this scope with “Popular Science” in the name. The differences are minor and it’s just as good in the important ways.
The prices seem to be all over the map on these scopes so shop carefully. I got this one at Walmart (online) for about $300. But it’s still a pretty good value at the full retail price. If you see the “Popular Science” version for a lower price, buy it instead.
I am a retired Astronomy Professor. I do not make any money or benefit in any way from my recommendations. Unlike many Youtube reviewers, I am not an Amazon affiliate. I make nothing when you make a purchase. I purchased these scopes with my own money. Nothing was given to me.
Starsense Explorer DX102 AZ:
https://www.amazon.com/Celestron-StarSense-Smartphone-App-Enabled-Compatible/dp/B083JP3QYJ/
Helpful Starsense DX tutorials and reviews:
Astroblender: https://youtu.be/LY929ih9-7Q
LearnToStargaze: https://youtu.be/xhn9bBrYN1M
https://youtu.be/BlzKZ28P7sY
How to Select a Beginner Telescope:
https://youtu.be/0SIjhcePcNM
This is how I do Deep Sky Astronomy in my light polluted back yard:
https://youtu.be/a9wHikROMGo
My Classic Telescope Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtDW0-sHft3ySqQXKXqRkbg
Other Links:
Unbiased and well-qualified telescope reviews:
https://telescopicwatch.com/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tY-QybUExzo
Here’s A simple tripod base you can build for a table top Dobsonian:
https://youtu.be/HsGD9mU8cR0
https://www.eyesonthesky.com/tutorials/diy/2x4-tripod/
Great Youtube Channel for Beginners: https://www.youtube.com/@LearnToStargaze
A great Youtube channel with non-sponsored independent advice: https://www.youtube.com/@AstroBlender