In this buying guide, we will see how to choose a telescope. The sky is a marvel! Especially at night, when many stars are visible to the naked eye, or when the full moon holds us up with our noses. In short, who would not like to observe all this with an optical instrument capable of making us appreciate every little facet?
We are talking about the telescope! And, since there are all types and for all budgets on the market, it is good to know how to orient yourself during your purchase because there will be many factors to consider.
Let’s see together through this short guide how to choose a telescope. First of all, when choosing a telescope, we must list the main categories:
- Refractor telescopes. As far as this category is concerned, it is also possible to find very cheap models on the market. Still, I advise you not to buy them as they are absolutely not suitable for a satisfactory observation of the sky. They consist of a long tube where a front lens is placed at the end that collects and focuses the light.
- Newtonian telescopes. They are a favorite for sky lovers as they guarantee good image rendering at affordable prices. They consist of two mirrors, and the first collects the light coming from the observed body and the second mirror makes the focal plane accessible to the user.
- Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes. These are perfect models for astrophotography, and the most recent is equipped with computerized systems that allow you to point to celestial objects automatically.
- Maksutov-Cassegrain telescopes. Technically very similar to the Schmidt-Cassegrain models. They have only one difference: in this case, the correcting plate is made of a meniscus with a double spherical profile.
When choosing a telescope should also give particular importance to the mounts as they are essential. There are two main types:
- Altazimuth. They are simple and inexpensive and allow you to move the telescope only up-down and left-right.
- Equatorial. This mount allows following the celestial object with a single movement by rotating with the earth’s rotation motion. These mounts lend themselves positively to astrophotography.
This guide on how to choose a telescope is finished. You have to search for the telescope that meets your needs based on its characteristics and make your purchase.