Astronomical Binoculars

I think of the Nikon Action as the starter Astronomical binocular. It's fairly light, inexpensive and the rubber armor should be enough protection from minor bumps.This should make for good practice until you become proficient at using binoculars for skywatching.

PRODUCT FEATURES: Bright, Multicoated Optics; Aspherical eyepiece lens elements; Ergonomic body design; BaK4 High Index Prisms; Rubber armored; Tripod Adaptable.
(from the manufacturer)

Product Description
The Galileo C-72140 features 40mm objective lenses and brings images 7 to 21 times closer to you than the naked eye. The C-72140 features a zoom design allowing you to survey the entire landscape or zoom in on a particular object simply by pushing a lever located conveniently at your finger tips. The prisms are positioned in a Porro prism design affording them increased depth perception over other binocular designs. Additionally the C-72140 features fully coated optics for improved glare reduction, water resistant comfort grip rubber armoring, full range center focus and binocular tripod socket. Included with the Galileo C-72140 is the Galileo deluxe padded zippercarrying case, comfortable Neoprene neck strap, lens cloth and protective eye caps. Designed for years of use all Galileo binoculars come with a limited lifetime warranty which covers the binoculars against defects in material or workmanship for the life of the purchaser.

If your observation sites have a lot of bodies of water nearby, you might want to consider this waterproof model. Dropping regular binoculars in the water can have disastrous consequences. The Orion eliminates that problem. It will stand immersions for a short time, certainly enough time to fish it out.

Image Stabilization! The Canon 10x50 reduces the shakiness produced at higher magnifications. Your arms and eyes won't get as tired trying to keep the astronomy binoculars stable. That means more time to enjoy actually seeing the heavens.