If money was no object … Okay, for me and for most folks, money will always be an object or, more to the point, an obstacle when it comes to buying our dream car, our dream digital camera, our dream binocular and so on. So, really, if I won the lottery and had the money, what would I buy in an astronomical binocular, for instance?
For my dream astronomy binocular, I would opt for a giant binocular, mounted on an astronomy binocular tripod or even a larger giant binocular, mounted on a pedestal. With such a giant binocular, I could view wide expanses of the heavens in total comfort and get picture window like views of the universe. I’m not so much interested in magnification as I am in image brightness, because most of astronomy is about seeing faint objects and to see faint objects, you need those larger optical systems. Indeed, there have been as many comets discovered by amateur astronomers using giant binoculars as amateur astronomers using telescopes.
For my tripod-mounted astronomy binocular, I would have to choose a Kowa Highlander. This would still be portable enough to carry outside on my patio. At, 38x or 50x with the optional eyepieces, the views would be stunning in this premium giant binocular. If had the room for a permanent shed, though, I would have to go with a huge Fujinon 25x150 binocular telescope. Now that is one big binocular.
Okay, Bill, if you are reading this, just remember this is all a fantasy. I am not planning to sell the car and surprise you when you get home, one night.