The best telescope for stargazing and other astronomical activities might vary from one person to another. For someone who is just getting started in space hunting tasks, choosing a telescope can be a hard thing to do.
If you are planning to begin your early sky watching, you might need to have some knowledge about the different types of telescopes. There are two classifications for that: the refractors and reflectors.
The former relies on the lenses that "reflect" light from its source, whereas the latter is the opposite. Refractors "bend" light into the eyepiece.
The reflectors are often used when viewing galaxies and other deep-space objects to give you an idea of their usage. Meanwhile, the refractors are the best telescopes when gazing for heavenly bodies and the solar system.
To help you in your viewing journey, here are the five best telescopes that you can purchase to begin.
Best Telescopes For Beginner Watchers (2021)
According to a report by Space.com, the best telescopes for newbie stargazers out there will only revolve around three brands: Celestron, Meade Instruments, and Sky-Watcher.
From their pros, cons, and specs, let's now discuss them one by one.
1. Celestron Astro Fi 102
If you are looking for a good moon and planet viewer, the Astro Fi 102's technology will help you breeze through them. The newbies could enjoy a clear observation of the night sky through this telescope.
In case you want to use its Celestron SkyPortal app, you can download it here in both Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
You can buy it here.
Specs
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7.25 kg (16 lbs.)
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10 mm and 25 mm (eyepieces)
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Can magnify for at least 15 x
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Highest magnification can reach 241x
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52.17 inches (focal length)
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4.02 inches (aperture)
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Computerized alt-azimuth single fork arm (mount type)
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Maksutov-Cassegrain (optical design)
Pros
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No required tools when assembling it
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Easily accessible through a smartphone
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Good database
Cons
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App-dependent
2. Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ
The best thing about this StarSense telescope is its capability to suggest objects that beginners would observe. Apparently, this process is easy for such a type since all you need to accomplish is to look at its eyepiece.
While it is a good starting telescope, the absence of a motor drive could make it hard for the user to utilize it. To order, proceed to the Amazon page.
Specs
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8.16 kg (18 lbs.)
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10mm and 25mm (eyepieces)
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Lowest magnification: 19x
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Highest magnification: 307x
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25.59 inches (focal length)
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5.11 inches (aperture)
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Alt-azimuth (mount type)
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Newtonian reflector (optical design)
Pros
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Easy assembly and alignment
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Recommends viable targets for observation
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Ideal Astrophotography starter
Cons
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Operating without motor drive
3. Meade Instruments Infinity 102 AZ
In navigating this Meade telescope, navigating its body is made easy. The newbies will have an easy time using it smoothly and comfortably.
The downside about this telescope is its heavy star diagonal. The user will have to adjust it first before proceeding to stargaze.
Specs
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5.44 kg (12 lbs.)
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6.3 mm, 9mm, 26mm, 2x Barlow (eyepieces)
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Lowest magnification: 15x
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Highest magnification: 204x
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25.98 inches (focal length)
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4.02 inches (aperture)
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Alt-azimuth (mount type)
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Refractor (optical design)
Pros
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Perfect for night-sky viewing
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Portable and convenient to set up
Cons
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Heavy star diagonal
4. Sky-Watcher Skyliner 200P
The Dobsonian telescope of Sky-Watcher might be unconventional for starting watchers. Since it is heavy, using it will require some extra effort to accomplish.
On top of that, those who are interested in viewing nebulae and galaxies should pick this up. Check it here.
Specs
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26.6 kg (58.64 lbs)
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10mm and 25 mm (eyepieces)
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Lowest magnification: 29x
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Highest magnification: 406x
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47.24 inches (focal length)
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7.87 inches (aperture)
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Dobsonian (mount type)
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Reflector (optical design)
Pros
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Easily spots faint galaxies
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Portable
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Durable
Cons
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Quite heavy for beginners
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Needs mirror adjustments
5. Celestron Inspire 100AZ
If you are searching for the accessory-dependent telescope, Inspire 100AZ is a good telescope to commence your space viewing. While it could clearly spot planets, the moon, and even distant galaxies, its false-color might spoil the viewing.
Click here for more details about its pricing.
Specs
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9.07 kg (20 lbs)
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10mm and 25 mm (eyepieces)
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Lowest magnification: 15x
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Highest magnification: 241x
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25.98 inches (focal length)
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3.94 inches (aperture)
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Alt-azimuth (mount type)
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Refractor (optical design)
Pros
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Several accessories to incorporate
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Convenient for assembly
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Another idea telescope for astrophotography
Cons
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False-color detection
Last month, we reported the Saturn opposition for this year. We also shared the best telescopes to use to see the rings of Saturn clearly.
You can also check last year's starscope monocular review. The telescope features a special lens that is adjustable depending on the user's eyes.
Related Article: NASA's Skywatching January 2021 Forecast PLUS Best Telescopes to Use
This article is owned by Tech Times
Written by Joseph Henry