For those who love to go out and view the stars, planets, and galaxies, a good telescope is the perfect thing to have on hand. There are a variety of different telescopes to choose from, including those designed for kids and professionals, and even those that offer deep space viewing capabilities. These telescopes are great for viewing astronomy and astrophotography, and will let you see things that you may otherwise be unable to.
If you are looking for the best telescope for your needs, there are several factors to consider. In order to make an informed choice, it’s important to evaluate your budget, the size of your living space, and the type of astronomical viewing you plan to do.
Celestron AstroFi 130 – A Wi-Fi Telescope For Beginners
Best for deep space
Celestron AstroFi 130 is a new telescope that uses wi-fi technology for a more comfortable and easier experience. Its advanced features include fully coated optics and wide fields of view. This model is a perfect choice for observing deep space objects. You can even control your Celestron AstroFi 130 from a smartphone. The telescope is also designed for beginners.
The 130mm aperture provides outstanding resolution and allows for observation of open clusters and many DSOs. It also has a focal ratio of f/5, giving you a bright and clear view. The optical tube is equipped with a parabolic mirror, StarPointer finder scope and Kellner 10mm eyepieces. It also comes with an accessory tray and an Astro Fi mount.
While the Astro Fi 130 isn’t the highest quality scope available, its design and construction make it a good value. As a “grab and go” scope, it’s easy to take with you on your trips. A sturdy tripod and adjustable legs help keep the unit steady when you’re observing.
With the AstroFi 130, you can control the telescope using the free Celestron SkyPortal app. Once you connect the device to the SkyPortal, you can tap on the sky and have a completely wireless observing session. Your mobile device can then capture images and videos of celestial objects. During the observing session, the app will automatically triangulate the position of the telescope. Afterward, it will slew to the desired night sky target.
Since you can use the AstroFi 130 with any smartphone, you won’t have to worry about hand controls. It’s also easy to setup. The telescope is designed for children age 13 and up. In addition, it doesn’t require power. There is an AUX port for optional hand controls.
Designed to work with both iOS and Android devices, the Celestron SkyPortal app is very easy to use. Once you have connected the device, you can browse through hundreds of thousands of objects in its catalog. You can tap on any of the objects and it will give you background information about the object. Even better, it recommends objects to view on your first night out.
In addition to the SkyPortal app, the Celestron AstroFi 130 includes two 1.25″ eyepieces and a red dot finder. If you have a tablet, you can also use it to control the telescope. However, some users may find that the touchpad on the tablet isn’t quite as accurate as the touchpad on the telescope.
The Celestron AstroFi 130 is the first initiation telescope to feature wi-fi technology. Unlike GoTo telescopes, which require you to manually center your target in the eyepiece, the Celestron AstroFi 130 telescope automatically slews to the selected object. Although the telescope isn’t very expensive, you might want to upgrade it with additional accessories if you’re looking for more features.
If you’re looking for a telescope with a great design, a fast focal length and a fair amount of portability, the Astro Fi 130 is the perfect choice.
Orion SkyScanner BL135mm Dobsonian Reflector Telescope
Powerful and clear views of the moon and planets
Orion SkyScanner BL135mm Dobsonian Reflector Telescope is a powerful telescope that has an advanced optical system. It features a 135mm f/8.1 Newtonian reflector that collects more light than many typical beginner telescopes. The optical tube has a detachable design for easy transport and includes a 3x Barlow lens. This telescope is a great choice for astronomy enthusiasts who want to see nebulae and deep sky objects. A red dot finder is also included.
The Orion SkyScanner BL135mm is a dependable telescope that comes with a 174-page Telescope Observer’s Guide. This guide includes full page descriptions of each celestial object. In addition, it includes a free moon map. You can use the red dot finder with the telescope, but it is a bit difficult to align. If you plan to see nebulae and planetary nebulae, you should consider purchasing an ultra high contrast (UHC) nebula filter. These will help increase the contrast of nebulae against the background sky.
Although this telescope is built to meet the needs of experienced astronomers, it is still very beginner-friendly. It is lightweight, easily assembled, and requires no complicated gears. It can be used from a sitting or standing position. Also, it is relatively compact, measuring 23 lbs and 10 inches. With its high aperture, it can offer a good view of deep-sky objects, even in dark areas. For a more powerful view, you can use the StarBlast 4.5″ tabletop dobsonian.
The SkyScanner BL135 can offer good views of the moon. The red dot finder is not as high quality as the ones in some high-end telescopes. However, the eyepieces provided with the telescope are interchangeable. You can choose from a low-power 44x magnification and a 3x Barlow lens. They are both ideal for getting in close to the target.
The BL135 is designed with a spherical primary mirror. This allows the primary to be collimated without tools, but it is more prone to misalignment. As a result, the BL135 needs a very large secondary mirror. The secondary mirror is 38mm, bigger than the secondary mirrors on most 6″ f/8 reflectors.
Despite its price, this telescope has a good reputation. In fact, KSON has made identical telescopes for Galileo in the past. Compared to some other Dobsonians, the mount on the SkyScanner BL135 is a little heavy, although it is made with a sturdy design. Some of the bases are made from particle wood glued together, which can warp over time. There are also several altitude bearings, which are plastic, that are used to adjust friction.
The SkyScanner BL135mm also comes with a free MoonMap 260, an additional 174-page guide, and an adjustable carry handle. All of these accessories are provided to make your observing experience more enjoyable. One thing that may disappoint beginners is the fact that the red dot finder is small, but hard to align. Another issue with the red dot finder is the fact that the lens is a plastic one. That’s the same as the lens on some low-quality beginner telescopes.
Celestron Astro Fi 102 Telescope Review
Satisfying images from a very lightweight and portable go-to mount scope
The Celestron Astro Fi 102 is a telescope that is perfect for beginners to astronomy. It features a Maksutov-Cassegrain optical tube with fully coated optics, which enables you to observe deep space objects with ease. Also, you can use the telescope’s built-in Wi-Fi to track celestial objects and get information about them.
Aside from the built-in Wi-Fi, Celestron also uses award-winning SkyAlign technology to make observing preparations as easy as a click of a button. This technology allows the telescope to automatically center the three brightest objects in the eyepiece. You can then use your smartphone or tablet to control the telescope and follow the movement of the celestial object. For example, you can follow the phases of Mercury or see the ringed moons of Jupiter.
If you are looking for a portable, motorized telescope that’s easy to setup, the Celestron Astro Fi 102 is for you. With its compact design and lightweight body, it’s easy to move from place to place. Moreover, its long focal length ensures that you can see all the way to 200x magnification. That makes it ideal for observing craters on the moon, the ice caps of Mars, and more.
While the Astro Fi 102 is affordable and portable, it has a few flaws that keep it from being a great buy. First, the 102mm Maksutov-Cassegrain’s small aperture limits the resolution of larger nebulae and star clusters in its field of view. But, when everything’s working properly, you can have a lot of fun with the Celestron AstroFi 102.
Second, the telescope’s price is a concern. Although the Astro Fi 102 is priced less than some of the most expensive telescopes available, the cost does not reflect its quality. On the other hand, it does include the StarPointer red dot finder and 25mm and 32mm Kellner eyepieces. These are a bit cheap, but they will work at f/13.
Finally, the AstroFi 102’s slew rate is good. However, there is a small image shift when the telescope is focused. This is a problem that most users have encountered. Luckily, this is a common occurrence when focusing with a telescope.
As for the quality of the optics, the Celestron Astro Fi 102 does a decent job of resolving planetary nebulae and dust lanes in M82. You can also resolve Jupiter’s Great Red Spot and the cloud belts of its moons. Moreover, its slew rate is good enough to view the phases of Mercury. And, since you can sync the telescope to your smart device, you can easily view the planets in your own backyard.
Unlike most telescopes, the Celestron Astro Fi combines a high-powered telescope with an app. This app is a free download that allows you to wirelessly access the celestial objects you want to observe, which eliminates the need to manually adjust the focus. In addition, you can track the stars, slew the telescope, and get information about the objects in the sky, including their position.
Celestron 21061 AstroMaster 70AZ Refractor Telescope Review
The Celestron 21061 AstroMaster 70AZ Refractor telescope has a simple yet powerful design. It is perfect for beginners. This telescope provides bright, clear images of the night sky. You can also use it for birdwatching by day.
When you buy this telescope, you’ll receive a telescope tube, a sturdy tripod, two eyepieces, and a Starpointer finderscope. All of these accessories are easy to use, and will help you start your astronomy career.
The AstroMaster 70AZ telescope comes with a 900 mm tube, a 1.25″ rack and pinion focuser, and a red dot reflex sight. These components combine to create a focal ratio of f/13. The AstroMaster 70AZ also has a star pointer permanently mounted on the optical tube.
Aside from the optics, the AstroMaster 70AZ includes a clutch, which locks the scope in position. An Alt-Az control also helps you to position the target.
Another advantage of this telescope is its compact design. Its 35-inch tube has a length of 900 mm, which makes it perfect for observing objects from a standing position. Also, the L-shaped erect image diagonal makes it easier to see targets from zenith.
However, the AstroMaster 70AZ suffers from droops, overreach, and recoil. Additionally, it can’t see many deep-sky objects. Moreover, it can’t balance itself well with heavy objects.
Despite the downsides, the Celestron 21061 AstroMaster 70AZ is an excellent option for beginners. It’s also a good value for families. In addition, it offers a wide range of accessories.
Celestron NexStar 8SE Telescope Review
Best telescope for astrophotography
The Celestron NexStar 8SE is a high-magnification telescope that is ideal for deep sky astronomy. It is a Schmidt-Cassegrain and features an 8-inch aperture. This makes it an excellent telescope for stargazing, planet photography, and astrophotography. If you are looking for a telescope that is easy to set up and take down, the NexStar 8SE is a great choice.
The Celestron NexStar 8SE features a GoTo mount, which makes it easier to find and track celestial objects. Once you have the scope set up, it will automatically pan, tilt, and slew toward the object. All you have to do is input the date, time, and location of the object and the telescope will find it.
Using the SkyAlign alignment procedure, the telescope can be easily aligned. During the alignment, the hand control guides the user through the process. You can also select three bright objects to align with. Your telescope will then be programmed to the selected objects, and you can begin observing in minutes.
With its long focal length, the Celestron NexStar 8SE is capable of providing high-quality astrophotography photos. Optical lenses are backed by a StarBright XLT coating. These optical elements do not have chromatic aberrations or diffraction spikes, resulting in very clear images.
The Celestron NexStar SE has a database of 40,000 objects to choose from, which is great for identifying and tracking celestial objects. You can even generate a list of visible objects, which is helpful for locating objects at night. Alternatively, you can just dial in the number of the object, and the telescope will slew to it for you.
Lastly, the NexStar 8SE can be used with a camera adapter. This allows you to use a DSLR or other type of camera to photograph deep-sky objects. To add a DSLR to the telescope, you will need a Celestron C90 T-adapter. You will also need a separate Powerpack. There are a variety of options available, so you can choose one that will fit your budget and your needs.
Whether you are a beginner or an advanced astronomer, the Celestron NexStar 8SE Telescope is an excellent option. It has a sturdy construction, a large optical tube, and a motorized mount. It provides excellent light gathering and tracking capabilities, making it perfect for viewing the moon, planets, and deep space objects.
In addition to the optical tube, the Celestron NexStar 8SE comes with a 25mm Plossl eyepiece and StarPointer red dot finder. When you purchase the Celestron NexStar 8SE, you can also get a telescope carrying case for convenient storage and transport. While it is not the cheapest telescope, the NexStar 8SE is a solid choice for beginning astronomers and astrophotographers alike.
If you are an intermediate or advanced astronomer, you might want to add a Barlow lens or other accessories. The Celestron NexStar 8SE is not a cheap telescope, but its excellent optics, compact design, and easy-to-use features make it a great choice for anyone who wants to spend a lot of time observing the night sky.
Sky-Watcher 10″ Collapsible Dobsonian Telescope
The Sky-Watcher 10″ Collapsible Dobsonian Telescope provides an excellent large aperture scope that you can store and transport. It features a collapsible tube design, a tripod and a computerized GoTo mount. A complete set of accessories is included, including a 25mm eyepiece and 4-element Plossl 25mm eyepieces. This telescope is designed to provide you with years of trouble-free observing enjoyment.
This telescope is designed for both beginners and experienced astronomers. Beginners can use the Dobsonian as a visual observation tool while more experienced astronomers can take advantage of the high light gathering power of this telescope.
Using a 10″ Dobsonian will allow you to see planetary nebulae and other showpiece objects in their finest structure. These objects have a lot of granularity and are well resolved at high power.
This telescope is available in a variety of models. You can purchase the standard model, which comes with a 9 x 50 finderscope, or an upgraded pro model with a dual speed Crayford-style focuser. Both of these telescopes come with Teflon bearings for smooth movement.
Unlike other Dobsonians, this model is able to collapse to a compact size. It is easy to carry because of its rockerbox handle.
The Sky-Watcher 10-inch Dobsonian Telescope is a versatile and convenient instrument that is ideal for both visual and solar system observing. For dark sky sites, you can use this telescope to view deep space objects.
Celestron StarSense Explorer LT 114 AZ Review
An affordable scope with high quality optics for backyard moon and planet gazing
The Celestron StarSense Explorer LT 114 AZ is an entry-level telescope that uses patent-pending StarSense technology to analyze the night sky. It then combines information from the telescope’s smartphone camera and the telescope’s optics to accurately locate and position celestial objects. This app-enabled system is designed to help users identify the star patterns they see with the telescope and is ideal for beginners to astronomy.
This StarSense Explorer LT 114 AZ features a Newtonian reflector and an Alt-Azimuth mount. These optical systems allow you to safely and easily maneuver the telescope. However, it lacks slow-motion controls.
The telescope’s optics are basic but capable of seeing hundreds of stars and deep sky objects. As with many Celestron telescopes, it is also equipped with StarSense technology. This allows the device to automatically calculate the star’s position in real-time. In addition, the app can generate a list of celestial objects you may wish to observe. For instance, if you’re looking at Jupiter, the Great Red Spot will be difficult to locate with the LT 114 AZ’s compromised optics.
The scope’s optics are made of glass and come with a two-inch Barlow lens that doubles the magnification of the eyepiece. However, this doesn’t mean you’ll be able to view the details in globular star clusters or galaxies. Also, the LT 114 AZ’s low aperture and low focal ratio limit the scope’s versatility. If you’re looking for a telescope that can show the polar ice caps of Mars, you’re better off with another scope.
The StarSense LT 114 AZ comes with a basic red dot finder and a plastic 1.25″ rack and pinion focuser. The scope’s focal length is 4.5 inches and its aperture is 114mm. With these measurements, the LT 114 AZ is advertised as a f/8.8 Newtonian reflector. Unfortunately, this description is inaccurate. Although it is a fairly long telescope, its optical tube is not more than a meter long.
Because the telescope is so short, it can’t support a Dobsonian mount. Consequently, it is difficult to aim the LT 114 AZ properly. Luckily, it is possible to adjust the focuser until you see a green bullseye. But if you’re unsure of your alignment, it’s best to do this manually.
While the LT 114 AZ’s StarSense app is useful, the overall experience is difficult to achieve. There aren’t any slow-motion controls and the telescope has a fairly basic design. Even so, it’s easy to learn how to use the scope. You can find a tutorial online. Once you’ve learned how to do so, you’ll be able to use the StarSense Explorer LT 114 AZ to its full potential.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced astronomer, the Celestron StarSense Explorer LT 116 AZ is an excellent tool to discover the stars and planets of the night sky. However, the poor build quality, inaccuracy, and low magnification may prevent you from achieving the results you desire. Thankfully, the app and smartphone dock can be used to assist you.
Celestron NexStar 5SE
If you’re looking for a telescope to explore the night sky, the Celestron NexStar 5SE Computerized Telescope is a good option. The telescope offers an amazing array of features to help you navigate the stars and planets.
This telescope is suitable for novice and experienced astronomers. Its motorized GoTo mount allows you to easily maneuver the Celestron NexStar 5SE to find the celestial objects that interest you.
The Celestron NexStar 5SE telescope is a Schmidt-Cassegrain design. It can resolve bright star clusters, nebulae, and galaxies. Moreover, it can show deep-sky objects such as the rings of Saturn and the Great Red Spot of Jupiter. Also, it offers a 44-foot narrow field view.
Celestron NexStar telescopes use SkyAlign technology. It automatically tracks thousands of objects in the night sky. For the convenience of the users, this telescope comes with a database of over 40,000 celestial objects. You can easily align the Celestron NexStar 5SE with the telescope’s database.
The Celestron NexStar telescope also has hand control. The telescope can be used with an equatorial mount. Despite its small aperture, it is able to show fainter, diffuse objects.
The Celestron NexStar 5SE is well received by users. Although it is priced high, it is still considered an excellent option. However, there are some issues that have been noticed.
The NexStar SE line features four different models, all of which have orange tubes. Each has an aperture of five inches.
Celestron PowerSeeker 127 EQ Telescope Review
It’s not for everyone, but is an inexpensive means of skywatching
The Celestron PowerSeeker 127 EQ telescope is an excellent choice for family astronomers. With its 127mm aperture and equatorial mount, the scope provides a wide field of view, as well as plenty of light gathering power. This is a telescope that offers a high level of optical performance at a great price.
As an entry-level telescope, the 127 EQ is an ideal choice for beginners. It is ideal for observing the Moon, planets, and star clusters. For this reason, it is recommended for children, aspiring astronomers, and anyone who is new to the hobby.
When it comes to optics, the 127 EQ utilizes a spherical primary mirror. This design creates an upright image, and produces prisms to help reduce blurring. However, spherical mirrors are more susceptible to optical aberrations than traditional Newtonian reflectors.
The Power Seeker 127 EQ telescope also has a large 127mm aperture, a high transmission coating, and coated glass optical components. These make for a smooth, well-defined image that can be easily captured.
Another advantage of the 127 EQ is its compact size. While many telescopes have a relatively large tube, the 127 EQ has a smaller diameter, which makes it easier to move around the sky.
An equatorial mount is used with the 127 EQ, which makes it easy to position the telescope in the sky. The equatorial mount provides a sturdy and reliable platform for viewing the night sky.
Moreover, the 127 EQ is equipped with a 4mm high-power eyepiece, a 20mm erecting eyepiece, a three-barlow lens, and a lightweight aluminum tripod. Combined with the included Sky – Level 1 software, the PowerSeeker 127 EQ Telescope is a complete beginner’s telescope kit.
SVBONY 501P 70 Compact Telescope Review
A good option for lunar and solar observations
The Svbony 501P 70 is a small, lightweight and inexpensive telescope that is good for traveling. It produces average images of the Moon and planets and is best used for backyard astronomy. This little telescope is not for everyone, however. In addition, it is not the most impressive telescope. If you are looking for a high quality, portable and easy to use telescope, look elsewhere.
There are many other compact telescopes available that do a better job for less money. For example, the Orion Starblast 62 Compact Telescope offers excellent views. Similarly, the Sky-Watcher Heritage 100P Tabletop Dobsonian is also light and offers excellent optical performance. However, these two telescopes are not suited for use on a tripod.
Although the Svbony 501P 70 is not a bad bargain, the quality of its optics is questionable. While it has a small star finder mirror on the top of the telescope, it does not offer any of the features you would expect from a more expensive telescope.
The SVBONY 501P 70/400 is a refractor telescope with an extremely large image diagonal. Combined with a 20mm eyepiece, it offers a maximum magnification of 20x. A 5×24 finderscope is also included.
Skywatcher 127mm
The perfect mix of great tech and brilliant optics
Skywatcher’s 127mm Skymax Maksutov-Cassegrain OTA has high contrast images that are ideal for visual astronomy. This telescope also features a high-transmission multi-coatings on all optical surfaces. In addition to offering premium imaging power, this model is lightweight and easy to transport. It is designed to provide high contrast, high resolution images of the solar system. The Skywatcher 127mm Maksutov-Cassegrain is perfect for terrestrial daytime observations, as well as for double-star viewing.
The primary mirror is aluminum-coated. A silver secondary mirror with a multi-coated corrector plate and a curved corrector plate make up the Skymax-127’s optical design. It can be used with an f/6.3 reducer. An f/6.3 reducer reduces the focal length by a factor of 0.63.
The 127mm Sky-Watcher Optical System is designed to show the details of dozens of globular clusters, as well as planetary nebulae, star fields, and galaxies. Because of its long focal length, the Skymax-127 is a great choice for deep-sky objects, as well as for double-star views.
This 127mm Sky-Watcher telescope can handle a payload of up to 11 pounds. This makes it a popular choice for visual astronomers who need a portable, lightweight telescope. Unlike some of the more popular Maksutov-Cassegrain models, the Skymax-127 has a more compact central obstruction.
When using the Skymax-127, it is important to consider the stray light problem. While it can be mitigated by wrapping the tube in a reflective insulator, a dew shield can help keep stray light from entering the tube. For Skymax-127’s best performance, an eyepiece with a large field diaphragm is recommended. You should look for a 6-8mm eyepiece for daytime observations and a 10-12mm eyepiece for nighttime viewing. If you plan to use a wide-angle eyepiece, opt for a 25-32mm Plossl.
Another consideration is the focal length of the Skymax-127’s primary lens. Since it is undersized compared to the Schmidt-Cassegrain, it is not recommended to mount it on a SW altazimuth mount. However, you can easily mount it on a tabletop single-arm mount such as the Sky-Watcher AZ-GTi Multi-Purpose Mount or TeleVue’s Skymax-127 Virtuoso GTi.
For a wide variety of mounting options, the Skymax-127 features a Vixen-style dovetail plate. This type of dovetail plate allows you to attach it to a number of mounts, including SW, CG4, and SW-Az.
Sky-Watcher’s 127mm Skymax Maksutov-Cassegrain telescope offers premium imaging power and a low price. It comes with a 1.25″ diagonal, a 25mm and 10mm eyepiece, and a AZ-GTi Multi-Purpose mount. This telescope is also compatible with the SynScan App, which can be downloaded for Android and iOS devices. The app allows users to browse the database of over 10,000 celestial objects and to control the telescope. Alternatively, the user can take advantage of the AZ-GTi’s built-in WiFi module. This makes it easy to explore the universe from anywhere.
With its longer focal length and greater quality control, the Skymax-127 has the potential to perform well on planets with F12 optics. On the other hand, it lacks resolving power for open star clusters and most galaxies.
Celestron NexStar 6SE Computerized Telescope
Best professional
The Celestron NexStar 6SE Computerized Telescope is an excellent option for astrophotography. It is designed for ease of use and offers the kind of optical performance to help you take a lifetime of observations.
This telescope is a popular choice for beginners and experienced amateur astronomers alike. Its 6-inch aperture allows it to view a wide range of deep-sky objects, from open star clusters to globular star clusters. It can also be used to observe Saturn’s rings and cloud bands on Jupiter. Although its magnification isn’t as high as other telescopes in this price range, it provides a great balance between aperture and portability.
With its impressive optical coating and reliable GoTo mount, the NexStar 6SE delivers crisp detail and color accuracy. It is ideal for observing the Moon, planets and bright stars. Among its many features, it includes SkyAlign, a revolutionary technology that gets your telescope ready to observe in minutes.
The telescope comes with a hand control that guides you through the process of using SkyAlign. The controller stores user-input objects and automatically locates more than 40 thousand celestial objects in the database. As a result, you can easily align your telescope on any subject. You can even enter the name, date and location of three bright stars.
In addition to the telescope itself, the package includes an alt-azimuth mount and a Starpointer red dot finder. An optional SkySync GPS Accessory can download data from orbiting GPS satellites. A dew shield is also recommended to protect the instrument and extend its life.
Celestron telescopes are known for their iconic orange tube design. These telescopes have an average 6-inch aperture, a useful focal length, and a fully automated GoTo mount. They are also built to last, with a long lifetime and easy maintenance. However, the batteries in the SE line are expensive and often run out in about two to three hours. If you don’t want to spend money on batteries, you can opt to use a rechargeable battery.
The Celestron NexStar 6SE is the perfect choice for a beginner. It offers a high-quality build, a reliable GoTo mount and a comprehensive database of more than 40,000 celestial objects. All this in a compact, portable package. It also has a lightweight, collapsible tripod, and a 25mm Plossl eyepiece.
The Celestron NexStar 6SE has a high-quality, sturdy build and a long lifetime. However, it is not as light as other telescopes in this price range, and it will require assistance when you are transporting it. While its portability is a plus, the Celestron 6SE may not be the most suitable choice for astrophotography. Unless you are comfortable with APO triplet reflectors, you may want to consider one of the smaller consumer-grade telescopes instead.
Despite its limited field of view, the NexStar 6SE’s optics provide a great amount of brightness and clarity. You can easily see deep-sky objects such as the Pleiades, M67, and M22. Additionally, you can resolve bright globular star clusters and Saturn’s Division.
Celestron Omni XLT 102 Telescope Review
Best Telescope for Viewing Planets and Galaxies
Celestron Omni XLT 102 is a versatile and durable astronomical refractor that can deliver high quality views of the planets, moon, and deep space objects. This telescope offers excellent optical quality, a good focal ratio, and a great equatorial mount. It is also a very affordable and portable instrument, so you can take it anywhere with you.
The Omni XLT 102 has an all metal design, making it highly stable. While it is not a polar scope, its equatorial mount is strong enough to hold all the equipment needed to do astrophotography. Also, the CG-4 mount is well built and offers precise slow motion manual controls. Moreover, the XLT 102 is compatible with a variety of polar and motor upgrades.
The XLT 102 comes with a 25mm 1.25-inch Plossl eyepiece, a red dot finder, a 6×30 straight through inverted image finder, a 1.25″ star diagonal, and a white front cell. Additionally, the Celestron Omni XLT 102 includes free Starry Night software with a database of more than 36,000 celestial objects.
Despite the relatively low aperture, the Omni XLT 102 has a good focal ratio, making it ideal for deep space objects. Nevertheless, it is not a perfect observing tool for faint nebulae and galaxies. Even so, this telescope will reveal beautiful and vivid planets and deep sky objects, and is capable of reaching higher magnifications than many fast focal ratio refractors. You should consider purchasing a good set of filters for the Omni XLT 102 to improve its image quality and reduce chromatic aberrations.
As an entry level GoTo telescope, the Celestron Omni XLT is a good choice for beginners and intermediate amateur astronomers. However, the XLT 102 does have some visual flaws, including a poor quality finder and minor visual discrepancies. Moreover, the chromatic aberrations on the scope can confuse beginner astronomers. If you are willing to invest in a good filter, however, you will be able to enjoy sharper and crisper views of deep space objects.
Unlike most telescopes, the Omni XLT 102 has an all-metal equatorial mount. This type of mount is designed to be a stable, vibration-limiting mount. In addition, it has ball bearings on both the axes. Besides the equatorial mount, the XLT 102 also features a sturdy full-height steel tripod. Despite its relatively large size, the optical tube weighs 9.5 pounds.
Considering its affordability, the Celestron Omni XLT can be a good choice for anyone who wants a versatile and portable telescope. Though not the ideal device for astrophotography, it is a great device for observing bright solar system objects. Aside from the mount and optical tube, the Omni XLT 102 also has a sturdy full-height steel tripod, a red dot finder, and a green laser. Although the optics are not as high quality as some higher-end models, the Celestron Omni XLT makes an impressive telescope for beginners and intermediate amateur astronomers. With its compact design, versatile features, and a decent price, the Omni XLT 102 is one of the best $400-$500 telescope systems on the market today.
Celestron Inspire 100AZ Refractor Telescope Review
A good starter telescope for budding astrophotographers
The Celestron Inspire 100AZ Refractor Telescope is the ultimate telescope for beginner and intermediate astronomers. This 4 inch/100mm refractor telescope provides the perfect entry level instrument for astrophotography. It comes equipped with StarPointer Pro finderscope, erect image star diagonal, and a red LED flashlight. It also includes an integrated smartphone adapter, which means you can use your smartphone to capture astroimages.
While the 100AZ is a great telescope, it does have some design faults. For example, the lens is a bit thick, which does not help in the case of outer space objects, which tend to have little UV light. But other than these minor flaws, the Inspire 100AZ is a good beginner telescope.
Another feature that may help you to learn to focus is the focus micrometer. It has a numbered scale that shows you where the focuser is at any time. This allows you to quickly return to the point of focus.
The Inspire 100AZ’s lens is designed with an achromatic doublet objective lens. That means it is able to achieve a large field of view for deeper sky objects. However, the low focal ratio of f/6 does result in color defects around bright images. To remedy this, the lens is coated with a thin coating. Additionally, the surface of the lens has a coating that minimizes reflections.
The Inspire 100AZ comes with a pair of 10mm and 20mm eyepieces. These Kellner lenses are suitable for a wide variety of observations. The 20mm has a generous eye relief, so it is comfortable to use with glasses. Likewise, the 10mm has enough eye relief for people who wear prescription glasses.
The telescope’s tripod is very short, but it works as a mount. It can be used to scan the sky, but you will not be able to see celestial objects beyond 45 degrees. As a result, this is not ideal for observing the stars. You can attach a solar filter, though, to point your telescope at the Sun.
The telescope’s achromatic doublet lens is able to achieve a good image at a relatively low power. This allows you to get a good view of planets and stars in the Solar System. At the highest magnification, you will be able to get up to 200x magnification.
The lens cap for the Inspire 100AZ has elastic bands that can hold a smartphone. However, the telescope is not compatible with large smartphones. Fortunately, you can borrow a friend’s phone and use that. Or, you can set your device against the rubberized friction surface on the outside of the lens cap.
Lastly, the Inspire 100AZ is a very easy telescope to use. It has a hand control that makes it easy to move the telescope in small movements. Also, it has a built-in red LED flashlight that can be removed. It also has an accessory tray that illuminates in the dark. Moreover, it comes with a red dot finder, so you can easily align with the Solar System objects.
SVBONY SV503 Telescope Review
A useful addition for anyone interested in deep-sky viewing or photography
The Svbony SV503 Telescope is a compact and versatile telescope. It is perfect for backyard use. Its high-end design provides crystal clear images and is suitable for both terrestrial and astrophotography observing. Besides, this telescope comes with several accessories that will enhance your experience.
The SV503 OTA is equipped with a multi-coated optical surface and extra-low dispersion glass that reduces chromatic aberrations, providing great views. Moreover, the fine-grained paint and gold-accented accents add to its classy look. This telescope is also fitted with a knurled focuser knob that can be rotated around the optical axis of the telescope. Although this mechanism is useful for certain mounts, it requires a bit of tightening to ensure proper rotation.
The SVBONY SV503 70F6 ED telescope is extremely lightweight and compact. While it can be used for both Astrophotography and spotting, the scope is also ideal for Quark-type chromospheric filters. Additionally, its compact size makes it highly portable. Among other features, this telescope features a rotating focus head that allows you to control the focus, a sliding dew shield that prevents sprinkling, a dual hinged mounting rings, and an adjustable slide ring to adjust the scope’s focal length.
Another feature that makes the SV503 an excellent choice is its dual-speed focuser. Using this focuser is a great way to increase the speed of the optics and achieve wide field viewing. Moreover, it is a versatile device that can be used with Barlow lenses. In addition, this model is capable of producing clear images and delivering impressive color balance. Even the focuser knob is comfortable to operate, even at very high magnifications.
In the box, you will find the SV503 Telescope OTA, a carrying bag, a SV193 Field Flattener, a plastic carry bag, and a cardboard box. These are all provided in protective material, and the SV503 OTA is also packed in a durable tube that is designed to last. The tube is packed in a plastic bag to protect the instrument while it is in transit.
For astronomy enthusiasts, this SVBONY SV503 ED80 f/7 Telescope is a perfect starter instrument. It comes with SMC coated optics and a fully-rotating focus head. Furthermore, the scope’s telescoping drawtube housing can provide an additional 35 mm of back-travel. To further enhance your astrophotography, you can attach a camera or a laser pointer. Lastly, you can purchase a Svbony SV193 Field Flattener to flatten images and to allow for astrophotography of deep space objects.
SVBONY has been offering quality products at reasonable prices for a long time. In fact, this company has a good reputation and its customer service is top-notch. Aside from its telescopes, it also offers a variety of other accessories, including a monocular and binoculars. You can order these items from SVBONY’s website or from eBay. If you’re planning to buy one, take advantage of the Prime Day discount. All these items are available on Amazon Prime Day, a day devoted to offering special discounts and deals.
best telescope for kids
If you’re looking for a good telescope for kids, there are a few features to consider. These include magnification, aperture size, and ease of use. The best telescope for kids will get your child’s eyes off the screen and into the sky.
A telescope is a powerful tool that shows you the stars and planets. It can also be used to learn about the moon and other astronomical objects. With an easy-to-use model, you can teach your kids about the night sky.
The best telescope for kids should be able to show your child the moon, the sun, Venus, and the stars. You can also use a scope for bird watching and other activities. However, you should not purchase a telescope with magnification too low. Those models can be difficult to maneuver and may be difficult for kids with smaller hands to hold.
For a more robust view, a Dobsonian scope is the way to go. They come with a collimating mirror and are easy to use. Some models even have controls for tracking and positioning.
Another great feature of the best telescope for kids is the eyepiece. Not only does it have a magnification range, but it can also be manually adjusted to slow motion. This can be a cool new way to engage your children’s imagination.
While most of the best telescope for kids will have a variety of other features, the one you choose should be a simple, functional telescope. Look for high-transmission coatings to ensure the most clear, vibrant images.
best monocular telescope
If you are searching for the best monocular telescope, there are a few things to consider before you buy. These include power, magnification, and the ability to use it in low light conditions. Also, take a look at the design and materials used to construct the device.
The best quality optics can produce clear and accurate images in even the darkest of conditions. To ensure the highest quality image, look for a monocular with a full multi-coated lens. This will increase resolution and transmit more light, while reducing light reflection.
Higher power models will allow you to see more details, while smaller monoculars are compact enough to fit in a pocket. Some high powered models have a camera built into them, so you can get good images in dark areas.
Monoculars with a wide field of view can make it easier to spot objects. However, these types of devices are not for everyone. They can be cumbersome, expensive, and more difficult to operate.
A good monocular has a tripod mount, which stabilizes the device and prevents it from moving. For those with high powered monoculars, this is especially important.
High definition monoculars feature a large objective lens. These can be expensive, but they provide a crisp and clear picture.
A monocular with a long eye relief is also a nice touch. Although it is not mandatory, it makes a big difference for most users.
best telescope for professionals
The best telescope for professionals depends on the user’s needs. Some are designed to work with a camera, while others are meant to track the night sky and identify stars. A good choice is one that has a decently large aperture. Another factor is the mount. An equatorial mount makes it easier to take long-exposure images of the night sky.
A reflector telescope is better for viewing dim nebulae and galaxies. They gather more light, which ensures a clear image. These types of telescopes are also best for photographing the Moon and planets.
While some astronomical telescopes require finderscopes, the eVscope 2 requires no eyepieces. Its image-enhanced options are accessible through a smart device app. This telescope includes MoonMap 260 to aid observations.
With a 26mm Plossl wide-angle eyepiece, you can see deep space objects. You can also use the hand control included with the telescope to lock onto your target.
The Orion XT8 is a good entry-level telescope. It features a two-inch Crayford focuser and EZ Finder reflex sight.
Best Telescopes For Beginners
A telescope is a great beginner’s astronomy tool. It’s easy to get excited about buying one, but it’s important to select the right one. There are many options available, and a good beginner’s telescope can be purchased for less than a hundred dollars.
The best telescopes for beginners are simple and lightweight, and will help you learn more about the night sky and its constellations. They also let you enjoy time outdoors. These telescopes will let you see the moon, stars, planets, and more.
If you’re looking for a telescope that will give you the best views of the night sky, consider purchasing a telescope that has an 80mm objective lens. This lens will allow you to frame larger nebulae and galaxies. You’ll also be able to take photos of astrophotography targets.
Another popular telescope option for beginners is the SVBONY 501P 70. This telescope includes a 5×24 finderscope and an optical tube. The SVBONY telescope is small and easy to carry, so you can bring it along with you wherever you go.
Great Alternatives
best telescope for astrophotography
When it comes to choosing the best telescope for astrophotography, there are several factors to consider. Among these, are focal length, aperture, and mount. In addition, you’ll need the right camera. Ultimately, you’ll want to get a good telescope that can help you take clear, detailed images of the sky.
The best telescope for astrophotography will have a long focal length and a wide field of view. This allows you to capture the fine detail of stars and planets without losing their brightness. You’ll also have the ability to capture high-quality pictures of brighter star clusters and pinpoint stars.
If you’re on a budget, a cheaper scope will provide you with great astrophotography capabilities. However, you may not be satisfied with its image quality.
For better results, choose a larger aperture. A larger aperture will collect more light, which can result in higher magnification and more accurate images. Depending on your needs, you can choose between a reflector or a refractor.
If you’re interested in astrophotography for deep-sky objects, you’ll need an equatorial mount. Equatorial mounts use a pan and tilt mechanism to track the motion of the sky. They also allow you to track planets and other celestial objects.
You should also make sure that the mount has an auto guider port. Some models will automatically detect and center celestial objects as you look through them. These can be a big plus, especially for beginners.
best telescope for viewing planets and galaxies
For those looking to see planets and galaxies, a telescope is an essential tool. The best telescopes for viewing these celestial objects focus on optical resolution. A good telescope also has a higher magnification, as this helps increase the contrast between the background and the galaxy. It is also a good idea to consider a Barlow lens, which can be used to boost the magnification.
If you are a beginner to astronomy, you may find that a refractor is the best option for you. This type of telescope has a longer focal length, and will produce clearer images.
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Another type of telescope you may want to consider is a Dobsonian telescope. These telescopes use a pure reflector design, which eliminates color fringing. They have wide apertures and a long focal length, which allows them to view brighter planets and deep sky objects.
You will also want to consider an equatorial mount for your telescope. These types of mounts are easy to use and allow you to track and view stars.
You should also consider a red dot finder, which is a small device that projects a red dot onto the sky. Using a red dot finder can help you locate stars and planets.
Another feature you might want to check is the panning handle, which is a control to orient the telescope to the right direction. This can be useful for tracking star clusters and other celestial objects.
best deep space telescope
A deep space telescope is an investment that will provide you with a lifetime of stargazing. However, choosing the right one can be difficult. There are many different factors that you should take into consideration when purchasing a telescope.
One of the most important features to look for in a deep space telescope is its size. The bigger the aperture, the farther the scope can see. Also, the bigger the aperture, the more light it will collect.
While the size of the aperture is important, you also need to consider the focal length. Shorter telescopes have a wide field of view, whereas longer scopes will have a more narrow one. This will affect the clarity of your image.
Lastly, you should take into account the magnification. Higher magnification means a clearer image, but it can also be more difficult to see through. You don’t want to get a big telescope, especially if you don’t know how to use it.
Finally, you’ll need to choose a mounting system. Your best bet is a sturdy non-motorized Dobsonian base mount. These telescopes are great for reflectors that have a large primary aperture.
Whether you’re looking for a beginner or advanced telescope, there are a number of good options to choose from. A Dobsonian is an excellent choice because it is easy to use and portable. It is also an affordable option.