For starters: Let's say you're interested in buying a telescope, or at least flirting with the idea. Your dilemma, however, is that you know a lot less about telescopes than Galileo. Before buying anything -- breathe in, breathe out and ask yourself these five common-sense questions.

The jargon: Buying a telescope may seem scary. Don't think of yourself as being lost in a bramble of jargon. Instead, imagine you're cutting a path through a jungle with a machete (i.e., your knowledge acquired here). In the clearing ahead, lies your quarry -- a really cool telescope.

Shiny mirrors, pretty lenses: To paraphrase George Orwell, all telescopes are equal, but some telescopes are more equal than others. Basically, it all boils down to what you do with glass. The telescope that's right for you, like so many of life's choices, is the compromise you can live with.

The toys: Perhaps you don't need a photometer or spectroscope yet, but honestly -- don't you want a few accessories? Here is an introduction to the must-haves, the sooner-or-laters and the (guilty-pleasure) luxury items.

Ready to buy: For those ready to buy, here is a list of telescope dealers and manufacturers around the United States. Many have active websites.