mag of a reflector vs a refractor

in an astronomy mag i just got it describes the objects that can be seen with a small scope, reflector of less than 200mm or a refractor of less than 90, and objects that need a large scope of size 200+ for reflector or 90mm + for a refractor. does this mean, that all else being equal, a 90mm refractor is similiar in resolving power to a 200mm reflector?

Not a chance. Resolution is directly linked to light gathering capability of the scope. A good quality 90mm refractor will collect as much light as say a 100mm reflector (This allows for the amount of light lost due to the cnetral onstruction). A 200mm reflector is in a whole different ballgame.

Regards,

Michael is right on the money. It's aperture that counts. Good quality refractors do allow a bit more light to pass than a similar aperture reflector, but it's not a big enough to make much difference. Saying that you could buy a large aperture reflector for the same money as a small high quality refractor.

If you are looking for a good all purpose scope with good light gathering power then a reflector wins every time.

Anyone who tries to claim that a 90mm refractor will gather as much light as a 200mm reflector, quite frankly, is talking utter rubbish.

cool. its in the sky at night magazine. just wanted to ask as i thought it was all about light gathering capabilities and that relates to apature size, and what the sky at night magazine confused me. thanks.

*moved to Observing Equipment* :x