Please help me find a telescope for my 9 year old son

It's all he wants for Christmas.

He is doing an introduction to astronomy course at the moment.

What is a good model for a beginner and what specs should I be looking at?

Really don't want to spend a whole lot more than 200 euro.

Really appreciate your help.

Have also ordered this book per recommendation of his astronomy instructor.

Any other thoughts?

Thanks for taking pity on a poor ignorant mum!

Kerry - since he is just starting, perhaps a good pair of binoculars would be the best. Easily within your budget and if he gets bored of astronomy, no big deal - you can use them at the races

Beware though - there are binoculars and there are binoculars... I'm sure the binocular users here would offer you specific advice.

If he's dead set on a telescope, to be honest you won't get much for 200 euro - at least not new. But you might get a good secondhand bargain.

Hope this helps...

Dave

However, he's very very keen.

Also extremely bright.

I would absolutely have to stay under 300 euro.

He's adamant about telescope instead of binoculars.

I saw one for £179. Will get link....

Here: www.scopesnskies.com/prod/meade/starter-scope/refractor/70.html

Kerry - that's a nice starter 'scope and a pretty good deal. There are a good few folks here that have exactly that scope so there'd be plenty of help here if he gets stuck.

You should also consider signing him up for the nearest club to you. That can be handy too.

Cheers
Dave