“What are the best telescopes for beginners?” is a question that has sparked the curiosity of stargazers for centuries. From ancient civilizations who mapped the stars and identified constellations, to modern astronomers who probe the farthest reaches of the universe with advanced telescopes, the night sky has always been a source of wonder and scientific discovery.
For those new to astronomy, the vastness of the cosmos can be overwhelming. The universe is filled with an almost infinite number of stars, galaxies, and astronomical phenomena. Yet, even the most complex astronomical explorations begin with a single, simple act: looking up.
This is where a good beginner’s telescope comes in. A telescope opens up the universe, offering a closer look at the moon’s craters, the rings of Saturn, or the glowing nebula where new stars are born. But with so many options available, choosing your first telescope can be a daunting task.
That’s why we’ve created this guide. We want to help you navigate the world of telescopes and find the perfect one for your stargazing journey. Whether you’re a parent looking to inspire a love of science in your child, or an adult ready to take your first step into the world of amateur astronomy, this guide is for you.
So, let’s delve deeper into what are the best telescopes for beginners.
What Makes a Good Beginner’s Telescope?
Choosing the right telescope is crucial for a beginner’s journey into astronomy. A good beginner’s telescope should be user-friendly, offer value for money, and have quality optics. Here’s a more detailed look at these key features:
- Ease of Setup: As a beginner, you want a telescope that won’t take hours to assemble. Look for a telescope that comes with clear instructions and requires minimal tools for assembly. A telescope that is easy to set up and disassemble will make your stargazing experience much more enjoyable. Additionally, a portable design can be beneficial if you plan on taking your telescope to different viewing locations.
- Value for Money: Astronomy can be an expensive hobby, but your first telescope doesn’t have to break the bank. Look for a telescope that offers good optical quality and features for its price. Some telescopes come with added extras like star maps, astronomy software, or even a carrying case. These can provide excellent value for beginners.
- Quality of Optics: The quality of the optics determines how clear and bright the images you see will be. A larger aperture will gather more light and allow you to see fainter objects. However, the quality of the lens or mirror is also important. Look for a telescope with coated optics to reduce glare and ensure clearer images.
- User-Friendly Features: As a beginner, you’ll appreciate features that make the telescope easier to use. This could include a computerized mount that can automatically locate celestial objects, or a comfortable eyepiece that reduces eye strain.
- Durability: Your first telescope should be able to withstand the occasional bump or knock. Look for a telescope with a sturdy mount and high-quality materials.
Remember, the best telescope for beginners will depend on your individual needs and circumstances. Take the time to research and consider your options before making a purchase.
What are The Best Telescopes for Beginners: Top 10 Choices
There are many telescopes on the market, but not all are suitable for beginners. Here are the 10 best telescopes for beginners and that will be perfect for starting your astronomy journey:
1. Celestron NexStar 5SE
Our Rating: 5/5⭐
The Celestron NexStar 5SE is one of the best telescopes for beginners, earning a stellar rating of 5 out of 5 stars. It stands out for its high reliability, affordability, and travel-friendly design. The telescope is hard to beat in its size and price class, making it an excellent choice for those starting their astronomy journey.
Key Specifications:
- Type: Schmidt-Cassegrain
- Aperture: 4.9″ (125 mm)
- Focal Length: 1250 mm
- Focal Ratio: f/10
- Dimensions & Weight: 81.3 x 68.6 x 33 cm; 7.98 kg
- Included Eyepieces: 25 mm 1.25″
One of its key features is the SkyAlign system, a beginner-friendly system that simplifies the process of aligning the telescope, making it easier for novices to get started with stargazing. This telescope’s classic design is a marriage of exceptional optics and innovative computer technology. The NexStar 5SE’s five-inch primary mirror is a testament to its robust light-gathering capability. It allows observers to journey through the marvels of our solar system. But its prowess doesn’t stop there. It brings alive the depths of space, teeming with galaxies, star clusters, and nebulae, through its lens while ensuring a stable and clear view, thanks to its precise computerized GoTo tracking system. This makes the Celestron NexStar 5SE a top pick among the best telescopes for beginners.
2. Celestron Inspire 100AZ
Our Rating: 4.8/5⭐
The Celestron Inspire 100AZ is a standout among the best telescopes for beginners. This 4-inch refractor telescope is affordable and comes with a large aperture, a built-in red light, and a novel solution for smartphone astrophotography.
Key Specifications:
- Optical Design: Refractor
- Aperture: 3.94-inch/100 mm
- Focal Length: 25.98-inch/660 mm
- Focal Ratio: f/6.5
- Eyepiece Magnification: 20 mm 1.25″ Kellner – 35x; 10 mm 1.25″ Kellner – 70x
- Mount Type: Alt-azimuth
- Total Kit Weight: 20 lbs./9.07 kg
It’s designed to be used at home by beginners for planets, the moon, and deep sky objects. The telescope is perched on a simple altazimuth mount that moves side to side and up and down, with a panhandle to find the exact position you want and to lock it in position. The main reason to buy this telescope over others is for its unique lens cap-smartphone mount. It’s a simple, clever design that sees the lens cap fitted with elastic straps and to secure a smartphone in position so that its camera is over a small hole. Beyond this novelty is a good value telescope that gives good views of the moon, planets, and the deep sky. This makes the Celestron Inspire 100AZ a top pick when considering what are the best telescopes for beginners.
3. Sky-Watcher Heritage-130P FlexTube
Our Rating: 4.7/5⭐
The Sky-Watcher Heritage-130P FlexTube is a remarkable choice among the top telescopes for beginners. Its compact design allows for easy portability, making it an ideal companion for any stargazing adventure.
Key Specifications:
- Optical Design: Newtonian reflector
- Aperture: 130 mm
- Focal Length: 650 mm
- Focal Ratio: F5
- Eyepieces Supplied (1.25″): 10 mm & 25 mm
- Magnifications (with eyepieces supplied): x26 & x65
- Highest Practical Power (Potential): x260
- Weight: 6.2kg/13.6 lbs
Despite its small size, it packs a powerful punch, offering excellent value for its price range. The telescope comes equipped with a red dot finder for effortless object location and “Super” Plossl eyepieces that provide varied magnification. Its performance is impressive, making it a great investment for beginners and a convenient secondary instrument for seasoned astronomers. This makes the Sky-Watcher Heritage-130P FlexTube a top contender in the realm of best telescopes for beginners.
4. Unistellar eQuinox 2
Our Rating: 4.6/5⭐
The Unistellar eQuinox 2 is a standout among the best telescopes for beginners. Its robust mount and impressive 114mm aperture ensure superior light gathering capabilities.
Key Specifications:
- Optical Design: Smart Digital Reflector Telescope
- Aperture: 114 mm
- Focal Length: 450 mm
- Image Resolution: 6.2 Mpx
- Field of View: 34 Arcmin x 47 Arcmin
- Mount Type: Motorized Alt-Az Mount with extreme tracking accuracy thanks to Automated Celestial Tracking with Feedback
- Weight: 9 kg (19.8 lbs) including tripod
While some components could benefit from enhancement, its overall performance and affordability make it a popular choice. The German equatorial mount allows for smooth celestial tracking, enhancing the stargazing experience. The optical quality of the primary mirror, along with the supplied eyepieces and Barlow lens, could be better. Nonetheless, it’s still a valuable tool for budding astronomers.
5. Tasco 60mm Refractor Telescope
Our Rating: 4.4/5⭐
The Tasco 60mm Refractor Telescope is a worthy contender among the top telescopes for beginners. It’s lauded for its straightforward assembly process and user-friendly design, making it an ideal choice for those new to astronomy.
Key Specifications:
- Optical Design: Refractor
- Aperture: 60 mm (2.36″)
- Focal Length: 700 mm
- Eyepieces: H25 mm (Low Power), H12.5 mm (Medium Power)
Despite its budget-friendly price tag, it boasts a sturdy mount and a smooth focuser for easy viewing. However, users should be aware that achieving polar alignment can be a bit tricky due to the lock screws. Nonetheless, it’s a solid option for beginners seeking an affordable and easy-to-use telescope.
6. Celestron PowerSeeker 127EQ
Our Rating: 4.4/5⭐
The Celestron PowerSeeker 127EQ is a commendable option when looking for the best telescope for beginners. It features a robust mount and a 127mm aperture for excellent light gathering capabilities.
Key Specifications:
- Optical Design: Newtonian Reflector
- Aperture: 127 mm (5 inches)
- Focal Length: 1000 mm (39 inches)
- Focal Ratio: f/7.87
- Eyepieces: 20 mm and 4 mm
- Mount Type: German Equatorial
- Weight: 13 kg (28.66 lbs)
- Highest Useful Magnification: 250x
However, some users have found that the quality of certain components could be improved. Despite this, it remains a popular choice for beginners due to its affordability and performance. The telescope is equipped with a German equatorial mount, which allows for smooth tracking of celestial objects. However, the optical quality of the primary mirror and the supplied eyepieces and Barlow lens could be better. Nonetheless, it’s still a valuable tool for budding astronomers.
7. Meade Infinity 102
Our Rating: 4.2/5⭐
The Meade Infinity 102 is a notable entry when considering the best telescope for beginners. This model, which is the largest aperture telescope in Meade Instruments’ Infinity line of refractors, is recognized for its superior components and cost-effectiveness.
Key Specifications:
- Optical Design: Achromatic refractor
- Aperture: 4″ (102 mm)
- Focal Length: 600 mm
- Focal Ratio: f/5.9
- Dimensions & Weight: 86.4 x 86.4 x 134.6 cm; 5.53 kg
- Included Eyepieces: 3 x 1.25″ MA eyepieces at 26 mm, 9 mm and 6.3 mm
It delivers impressively sharp and clear images, particularly of brighter celestial bodies such as the moon, planets, and stars. It also effectively captures star clusters and brighter nebulae, thanks to its wide field of view and high contrast levels. While it’s an excellent choice, it’s important to note that it may not be the perfect fit for everyone. There are several key factors to consider when choosing the best telescope for your needs. Despite these considerations, the Meade Infinity 102 remains a valuable tool for astronomy enthusiasts.
8. Orion StarBlast 4.5 Astro Reflector Telescope
Our Rating: 4.2/5⭐
The Orion StarBlast 4.5 Astro Reflector Telescope is a compact yet powerful telescope that’s perfect for both high-power and wide-field viewing.
Key Specifications:
- Optical Design: Newtonian reflector
- Mount Type: Alt-azimuth
- Aperture: 4.5″ (114 mm)
- Focal Length: 17.7″ (450 mm)
- Focal Ratio: f/4
- Eyepieces Included: 17 mm, 6 mm
- Magnification (with supplied eyepieces): 26.5x, 75x
- Maximum Useful Magnification: 225x
- Weight: 13 lbs (5.9 kg)
Its 4.5″ primary mirror delivers sharp, wide-field views of deep-sky objects, as well as high-resolution views of the moon, planets, and double stars. The telescope features a user-friendly Dobsonian-style tabletop mount, making it easy to set up and use. Despite its small size, it strikes an ideal balance between portability, performance, and cost. However, to fully utilize the StarBlast’s capabilities, additional investment in quality eyepieces may be necessary. With the right upgrades, this telescope can provide excellent viewing quality for the moon, planets, and even deep-sky objects.
9. Gskyer AZ70400 70mm Telescope
Our Rating: 4.1/5⭐
The Gskyer Telescope AZ 70400 is a commendable option when exploring what are the best telescopes for beginners. This “point-and-shoot” model is both functional and reasonably priced.
Key Specifications:
- Optical Design: Refractor
- Aperture: 70 mm (2.75″)
- Focal Length: 400 mm (15.75″)
- Focal Ratio: f/5.7
- Eyepieces Included: 25 mm, 10 mm
- Assembled Weight: 2 Kg (4.2 lb)
- Maximum Magnification: 120x
While it may not offer the most impressive celestial views due to its compact size and specifications, it serves as an excellent travel telescope or a starter telescope for children. Its competitive edge lies in its affordability, even among other 70mm category telescopes. The optical quality is satisfactory, providing sharp images with good contrast. It comes fully equipped with all necessary accessories, including a smartphone adapter and a carry bag, adding to its value. As long as one understands its limitations and appreciates its functionality, it can be a satisfying choice for a travel or children’s telescope.
10. Orion SkyQuest XT6
Our Rating: 4/5⭐
The Orion SkyQuest XT6 Classic Dobsonian Telescope is a top pick among the best telescopes for beginners. It features a Newtonian reflector design with a 152mm aperture and a 1200mm focal length. Despite its simple point-and-view navigation, it offers excellent light grasp and detailed views of celestial objects.
Key Specifications:
- Optical Design: Newtonian Reflector
- Aperture: 152 mm (6 inches)
- Focal Length: 1200 mm (47.24 inches)
- Focal Ratio: f/7.9
- Mount Type: Dobsonian
- Weight: 13.6 kg (30 lbs)
- Highest Useful Magnification: 300x
Its robust construction and easy-to-use Dobsonian mount make it ideal for beginners.
Please note that the best telescope for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. Always consider factors such as ease of use, portability, and the type of celestial objects you wish to view.
How to Use a Telescope
Once you’ve chosen your telescope from the list of the best telescopes for beginners, it’s time to learn how to use it. Here are some basic steps:
- Set Up: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to assemble your telescope. This usually involves attaching the optical tube to the mount, and then attaching the eyepiece. The best telescopes for beginners often come with user-friendly instructions and require minimal assembly.
- Alignment: Align your telescope with a known star or planet. This will help your telescope track other celestial objects accurately. Some of the best telescopes for beginners come with computerized or manual alignment systems that make this process easier.
- Observation: Use your telescope’s eyepiece to observe the night sky. Start with larger, brighter objects like the moon or planets. As you get more comfortable, you can start exploring fainter objects like distant galaxies and nebulae.
- Adjustment: Learn how to adjust your telescope’s focus to get the clearest image. This might involve turning a knob or dial on the telescope. Remember, patience is key here as small adjustments can make a big difference.
- Care and Maintenance: Keep your telescope in good condition by storing it in a cool, dry place when not in use. Clean the lenses carefully as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Regular maintenance will ensure your telescope lasts and performs well for years.
Remember, the key to becoming proficient with your telescope is practice. Don’t be discouraged if you struggle at first. With time, you’ll be able to navigate the night sky with ease.
Conclusion
Choosing the right telescope can open up a whole new world of discovery. Whether you’re a parent introducing your child to the wonders of the universe or an adult embarking on a new hobby, the Unistellar eQuinox 2, Celestron NexStar 5SE or any other telescope from our list are excellent telescopes for beginners. So why wait? Start your astronomy journey today and explore the cosmos with one of our recommended beginner telescopes.
Remember, the universe is vast and there’s always something new to discover. So keep looking up, and happy stargazing! 🌟