Best telescope for viewing planets

Looking to buy your first telescope but don't know where to start?

Looking for a telescope that will give you amazing views of the planets? We've put together a list of some of the best on the market. Generally speaking, telescopes for seeing planets requires a telescope with a long focal length, so you can fit your target in a smaller field of view and get a detailed close-up. A longer focal length in a telescope usually means a higher focal ratio, which can be worked out by dividing the focal length by the aperture in mm. Put simply, look for a high focal ratio if you want to see the planets of the Solar System.

Best telescope for viewing planets

Note: This post contains affiliate links. When you buy a product through the links on this page, we may earn a commission. Are you ready to explore the distant galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters that speckle the cosmos, all from the comfort of your home? Look no further. When making the leap into deep-space observing, choosing the right telescope is key. Here are a few of the most important factors to consider:. Related: The best telescopes for beginners The best splurge-worthy telescopes. Selecting the right telescope for viewing objects in deep space requires balancing technical specifications and personal preferences. But understanding the key factors above will guide you to a telescope that not only fits your observational needs, but also enhances your stargazing journey. Our team of experts at Astronomy magazine has decades of hands-on experience with a wide range of telescopes, and we stay up-to-date with the latest technological trends and advancements. Maintaining your telescope is crucial for ensuring its longevity and performance when viewing deep-space objects. Below are some of the key things to keep in mind. By following the simple steps above, you can keep your telescope in peak condition for years to come, ensuring each stargazing session is as awe-inspiring as your first. Simply put, a well-maintained telescope not only performs better, it also better holds up against time. Remember, the key to successfully observing objects in deep space lies in finding the telescope that aligns with your skills, interests, and budget.

Read our full review of the Celestron Advanced VX 9. Specifications Optical design: Refractor.

Best overall 3. Best for planetary imaging 4. Best for portability 5. Best for beginners 6. Best combination package 7. Best for precision 8. Best for functionality 9.

You are in the right place. The best telescope for viewing planets and galaxies comes with at least a mm aperture astronomical sweet spot and a 1,mm focal length preferably higher if your aperture is higher too. The telescope has an aperture of mm and a focal length of mm, providing a more wide-angle field of view. For instance, the bearings for the base are made from cheaper materials, which can sometimes make adjustments harder than usual. It comes with a 2-inch Crayford focuser, a 25mm eyepiece, an EZ Finder reflex sight, a collimation cap, and access to astronomy software, Starry Night.

Best telescope for viewing planets

Best for beginners 3. Best budget telescope 4. Best value enthusiast 5. Best premium 6. Best for planets 7.

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Weight: 6. They provide great image quality, but tend to be more compact and affordable than refractor telescopes. This gets a bit fiddly as there are no slow-motion controls, so you may have to practice to achieve precise adjustments effectively. It has a sleek, simple design with a single button on the telescope itself and a slotting mechanism with just two screws to hold it on the sturdy tripod, making this telescope one of the simplest we've ever reviewed alongside the Unistellar eVscope 2 we reviewed. Read our full review of the Istar mm. While the NexStar Evolution 9. Continue shopping. Both aperture and focal length play a role in your planetary observing. Focal length: mm. When you're looking for a telescope specifically to look at planets, there are other optical accessories you'll want to consider buying too. Cons Tracking occasionally slightly off. Although any telescope can give impressively high magnifications using short focal length eyepieces, there is a point when increasing magnification will provide a worse image rather than improve it. After the telescope automatically aligns itself by analyzing the night sky with its built-in image sensor, you can use the accompanying app to easily locate celestial objects like galaxies, star clusters, nebulas and planets. Performance Quick go to location of night sky objects.

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We also make suggestions for any additional kits that may be beneficial for the best experience possible. Mount type: Computerized fork mount. Aperture: 3. It offers a good aperture, a focal length of mm and plenty of features. The SkyMax 's long focal length is ideal for planetary and lunar viewing, but the telescope also gives good views of many deep-sky objects. Speak to people who know best, and you may even get the chance to try before you buy. Its long focal length and high-resolution optical system deliver flawless views of the planets, capturing vibrant details similar to a more expensive apochromatic refractor. A motorized Mak-Cass, this telescope has go-to functionality for a reasonable price. Celestron Astro Fi This is a great beginners' scope and mount package that will provide hours of viewing pleasure.