ATM Dumb questions

[mkoloski@orednet.org (Michael Koloski)]

Thanks for all the great info on this list.  As a
new atm I am a little reluctant to ask questions
that might seem trivial to the very experienced on
the list.  But howsa fella to learn....

1.  I have seen advertisements for "telerads" and
posts on how to flash them.  But what is a telrad?
How is it different from a regular finderscope?
How come it's so cheap.  (I equate inexpensive with
"cheap")

2.  Living in Eastern Oregon, I am surrounded by
irrigation pipe (some sort of light aluminum or alloy)
of all diameters.  Any experience with using such
pipe for telescope tubes?

3.  The 2" versus 1.25" eyepiece.  What are the 
relative merits?  Does it depend on the scope.  When
is the extra cost offset by the enhanced (I am assuming)
performance.  What's best for aging (over 50) eyes?

Mel, if these type of questions are best handled outside
the list don't be bashful.  Let me know.  Mike

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