Nancy, the Orion XT8 is an awesome telescope especially for someone new to astronomy. I have the XT10 (10") version and even though I have other more expensive telescopes and mounts, it's what I use most of the time. The tube and the base it sits on are really light. As a 50 year old man, I can carry the base for my XT10 in one hand while carrying the tube over my shoulder. At home, I have mine sitting in my garage on a sheet of plywood that sits on a dolly and I can roll it out without any set up time. For most of the places where I set up my telescope for observing, it isn't usually any distance away from the car at all. In short, I couldn't recommend a better buy that can provide a lifetime of enjoyment to the owner! Along with the telescope, I'd recommend also buying a paper Sky Atlas such as the "Jumbo Pocket Sky Atlas". Stargazing is sort of like going on a driving adventure...you might know where you are going and some key points along the way but a good road map will also tell you about the attractions that you might have otherwise missed along the way!

"This looks like an awesome organization - I'm hoping you can help me!  I am purchasing a telescope for my son who lives in Westminster for Christmas.  I need some suggestions as to what would be a quality purchase.  I am looking at the Orion Skyquest XT8.  He is new to star gazing and although probably knows more than I do he is a beginner.  My questions revolve around potability.  Is this scope - if a good one - too heavy to take to the sites that are recommended on this site and others?  Is it difficult to set up?  I assume you drive to most of these places and then walk to where you set up - how far of a walk would it be to most?"