3 best beginners telescopes

Beginner telescopes are designed for individuals who are new to astronomy and stargazing. They are typically easy to use, relatively affordable, and provide a good introduction to the wonders of the night sky. Here are some key points about beginner telescopes:

  1. Types of Beginner Telescopes:

    • Refractor Telescopes: These telescopes use lenses to gather and magnify light. They are known for their simple design and low maintenance.
    • Reflecting Telescopes: These telescopes use mirrors to capture and focus light. They are often more affordable for their size and offer good image quality.
    • Compound Telescopes: Also known as catadioptric telescopes, they combine lenses and mirrors to provide a compact and versatile design.
  2. Aperture Size: The size of the telescope's primary lens or mirror, known as the aperture, determines how much light the telescope can gather.A larger aperture allows for better views of faint objects in the sky.

  3. Mounts: Beginner telescopes often come with two main types of mounts:

    • Altazimuth Mount: These mounts move the telescope up and down and left and right. They are simple to use and great for beginners.
    • Equatorial Mount: Equatorial mounts are designed to track the motion of celestial objects as they appear to move across the sky due to the Earth's rotation. While they have a steeper learning curve, they are essential for astrophotography.
  4. Magnification: While many beginners focus on high magnification, it's important to note that more magnification doesn't always mean better views. The atmosphere can limit high magnification, so it's often best to start with lower magnification and gradually increase it as needed.

  5. Portability: Consider how easily the telescope can be transported, especially if you plan to take it to different locations for stargazing.

  6. Accessories: Many beginner telescopes come with accessories such as eyepieces, finderscopes, and tripod stands. These can enhance the overall stargazing experience.

  7. Budget: Beginner telescopes are available at various price points. It's important to set a budget and find a telescope that offers good value for your investment.

  8. Maintenance: Telescopes require some maintenance, such as cleaning optics and collimating mirrors (aligning them properly). Look for a telescope that is easy to maintain.

  9. Resources: There are numerous books, online courses, and astronomy apps available to help beginners learn about the night sky, constellations, and how to use their telescope effectively.

In conclusion, beginner telescopes are a great way to explore the universe and develop an interest in astronomy. When choosing a telescope, consider factors like the type of telescope, aperture size, mount type, and your budget to ensure you get the best telescope for your needs and interests.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best beginners telescopes on the market
  

Gskyer Telescope, 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refracting Telescope for Kids Beginners - Travel Telescope with Carry Bag, Phone Adapter and Wireless Remote

Gskyer

Based on 16 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Gskyer 70mm Astronomical Refractor Telescope 



This 70x400mm refractor telescope can be a good observation of celestial bodies and terrestrial objects - best for viewing lunar and planetary. Featuring all coated glass optical components, the travel scope provides clean, crisp views. Developed with the traveler in mind, this travel scope features a compact and portable design perfect for the on-the-go sky gazer. 



Specification: 



● Type: Refractor 

● Objective Lens: 70mm(2.75") 

● Focal Length: 400mm(f/5.7) 

● Mount: Altazimuth 

● Eyepiece: Low: 25mm(16X), High:10mm(40X) 

● Barlow lens: 3X 

● Max Magnification: 120X 

● Finderscope: 5×24 with cross-hair lines 

● Zenith Mirrors: 48°Erecting BAK4 prism 

● Tripod: 65cm(31.5") height adjustable Aluminum tripod 





Warm Tips: 



●If it shows a blurred picture, please adjust focus using focus wheel. 

●When observing an outdoor target with an astronomical telescope indoors, do not close the window to avoid the deformation of the image caused by the reflection of the window glass. 

●Use a telescope outdoors, please wait for the temperature of the product is the same as the outdoor temperature, the performance will be better. 

●Avoid accidentally taking the telescope into a larger temperature difference environment because the moisture in the air will condense on the objective. 

●NEVER aim your telescope at the sun or even close to the sun!

  • Quality Optics: 400mm(f/5.7) focal length and 70mm aperture, fully coated optics glass lens with high transmission coatings creates stunning images and protect your eyes. Perfect telescope for astronomers to explore stars and moon.
  • Magnification: Come with two replaceable eyepieces and one 3x Barlow lens.3x Barlow lens trebles the magnifying power of each eyepiece. 5x24 finder scope with mounting bracket and cross-hair lines inside make locating objects easily.
  • Wireless Remote: Free includes one smart phone adapter and one Wireless camera remote to explore the nature of the world easily through the screen and take amazing celestial images.
  • Adjustable Tripod: This telescope allows for many different viewing positions with a adjustable aluminum alloy tripod and a carry bag, the telescope and tripod can fit inside the bag for easy traveling and storage.
  • Satisfaction: lifetime maintenance. If you have any question about product and service, please feel free to contact us, we will do our best to help you in 24 hours.

User questions & answers

Question: I cannot see thru the telescope even after taking all caps off it is stil blank image
Answer: We are having the same issue. It’s been properly set up but even after allowing it to come to temperatures outside, there is nothing we’re seeing. We’ve adjusted magnification, tried different lens, still blank. And yes, all the caps are off too. I have a curious, yet disappointment kiddo on my hands. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks
Question: I can’t get the the telescope to lock in place when we find something to look at, how is this done
Answer: You have to use the little knob that looks like a T and also the long handle bar (you turn the handle bar right to tighten and left to loosen. They are both apart of the stand.
Question: Is this user friendly as described ? Since im a beginner is this the right fit for me
Answer: I set it up in 5 minutes. I observed the Moon, Venus and Cassini twin stars (actually quad) with in 30 minutes on 25 mm. I have never owned a telescope in my life. The instructions are pictures describing what part goes where under them. How to set up your phone is a bit of a mess but I understood and decided to address that later. I was too excited to see Venus, and then sad when it looked like a big star, lol. There is another way to set it up to see even closer images, so I’ll be experimenting. I want a bigger one now... lol 😂. I’m managing my expectations on the 3X with 10mm parts. I just want to see it all!
Question: Is this good for photographing an eagle 100 yards away
Answer: As long as the Eagle is stationary, yes. This comes with a 10mm and 25mm eyepiece. I think the 10mm would work.

Product features

Gskyer Telescope AZ70400

Stepping into the art of stargazing for the very first time can be an overwhelming experience. Overly complicated telescopes, hidden features, and confusing accessories only make the process of getting started more difficult. A balance between affordable and performance are two of the most important aspects to consider before purchasing any telescope. The Gskyer Instruments Infinity 70mm telescope manages to do exactly that – An affordable affordable for a high quality telescope.

What makes this particular model ideal for any beginner astronomer? Here’s a brief overview:

  • The visual resolution and optical capabilities are top tier for the low-end affordable.
  • Assembly is not overly complicated and beginner friendly.
  • The aperture diameter divided by the focal length calculates the magnifying power of a telescope. The Gskyer possess a 70 mm aperture and 400 mm focal length, which results in precise and high-resolution images.
  • The telescope is compact and portable.

ABOUT MAGNIFICATION

Gskyer telescope is a cost-effective one with bright image quality and high magnification power. 25 mm, and 10 mm eyepiece all offer varying levels of magnification.

Which is very suitable for kids, beginners and amateur astronomer to explore the sky, the moon, the planet. Meanwhile, you can enjoy landscapes during the day.

3X Barlow Lens

A 3x Barlow lens, 25 mm, 10 mm eyepiece and finderscope all offer varying levels of magnification. The magnification from 16x to 120x and provides clear, up-close images of birds, wildlife, distant treetops, as well as the moon, planets, and some star arrangements. It comes with everything you need to get started with astronomy.

Aluminum Alloy Tripod With Tray

Adjustable height and direction tripod with accessory tray is comfortable and convenient for observation and easy for storage.

Aluminum alloy tripod and its feet is more stable and durable for use.

The height can be adjusted from 22 inches to 46inches.

With a tray, you can put eyepieces or barlow lens.

Larter Apeture And High Power Telescope

Fully coated optics glass lens with high transmission coatings creates stunning imagess helps increase the brightness of celestial objects and provides clean, crisp views, delivering 99% total light transmission, and protect your eyes.

Smartphone Adapter & Wireless Remote

You can see the sky right on your phone and record the beauty.

Open the clip and secure the phone, then align the phone camera and adapter.

Lock the eyepiece into the threaded sleeve, and tighten the threaded sleeve to the bracket.

Press the eyepiece into the Bottom of the focuser.

Adjust focuser to get a clear image. Use the zoom function to enlarge the image.

Travel Scope AZ70400

Traveled - The body, accessories, and tripod are lightweight and fit conveniently in the provided travel bag for easy portability. for backyard exploring, outdoor adventures, camping trips, and vacations, both kids and adults will enjoy of discovery and observation fun.

Installation - Assembly typically takes anywhere from 15-30 minutes. Regardless of previous astronomical equipment experience, the step-by-step guide makes putting the telescope together quick and easy.

Simplicity and Convenience - Lenses are easily swapped, and the focused uses a standard rack-and-pinion system, allowing fine-tuning to produce a vibrant image. Wide angle and latest generation of HD Gskyer eyepiece are more comfortable to see objects without eye fatigue and dizziness.

Choosing - The affordability of the Gskyer AZ70400 telescope makes it an ideal choice for beginners seeking a telescope that meets a balance between quality and affordable.

Telescope for Kids Beginners Adults, 70mm Astronomy Refractor Telescope with Adjustable Tripod - Perfect Telescope Gift for Kids

ECOOPRO

Based on 879 reviews Check latest price
  • 360mm focal length and 70mm aperture, fully coated optical glass with high transmission coatings creates crisp images with increased brightness and clarity
  • Includes two 1.25" eyepieces (K25mm & K10mm) which you can enjoy the magnification from 51X to 128X, And 5X24 Finder Scope can locate objects faster
  • No-tools quick set up and easy find your objects, perfect telescope gift for kids and astronomy beginners
  • 70mm telescope excels at daytime birding use as well as viewing wildlife, scenery and casual nighttime observing of the Moon
  • Come with adjustable tripod , it allows for any viewing position.

User questions & answers

Question: Can this telescope used by an adult
Answer: Yes this telescope have full coated lenses
Question: How big is the tripod
Answer: You might have a defected model, I'd send it back. I couldn't figure out how to work mine but I could still see through it you know.
Question: Can this telescope be use for beginners
Answer: Eyepiece H20mm or K25mm.
Question: Is this telescope able to see the rings on saturn
Answer: No , it has n

Product features

High Power Telescope

Featuring all coated glass optical components, Lenses are composed of multi layered glass with a green coating that provides clean, crisp views, delivering 99% total light transmission

Adjustable Aluminum Tripod

360 ° rotationto design provides full range of observations. And the height of aluminum tripod can be adjusted from about 19.6-inch to 42-inch.

45 °Ddiagonal Mirror

The image of the refractor is reversed, At the same time, the viewing angle is more comfortable. The image passes through a 45-degree diagonal mirror, and the image is positive in the upper and lower direction.

5×24 Finderscope

On the left of 70mm scope, you can find a small cross star finder, with it you are more convenient to find the star or any flying birds.

MaxUSee Kids Telescope 400x40mm with Tripod & Finder Scope, Portable Telescope for Kids & Beginners, Travel Telescope with 3 Magnification Eyepieces and Moon Mirror

MaxUSee

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • Portable Telescope that easy to use and suitable for Kids & Beginners, High Quality Optics make your view brighter, clearer and delivers crisp images.
  • Focal length 400mm Refractor telescope with 5X18 finder scope makes locating objects easy and fast.
  • Includes 3 interchangeable eyepieces H6mm, H12.5mm & H20mm, comes with a Moon mirror & Compass built-in the telescope tube.
  • Easy assembly and quick start guide, Stars map & Moon map included.
  • Educational Science Telescope that brings lots of fun and joy to Children.

User questions & answers

Question: Would my 8yo son be able to see the stars and planets? Or is it only the moon
Answer: This telescope is amongst the best in the market. It is made from the best quality aluminium and has excellent image optics. The telescope gives clear images and has a strong magnification lens.
Question: Where can I get a taller tripod
Answer: Sure!
Question: Does it come with a 10 and 25 mm lens
Answer: They won’t be as clear as the moon, to view the stars, the smaller magnification lens is better to use. The maximum magnification should be used only for incredibly transparent objects such as the moon, which is relatively close to the Earth and very bright, permitting fair resolution of details at high magnification.
Question: Can you see any of the planets? If so, which ones
Answer: There are no chemicals in this kit, just plastic tubes etc., that may or may not break during your trip. If you are worried about airport security check with your local TSA.

Product features

SPECIFICATION

  • Aperture: 40mm / Focal length: 400mm
  • Finder Scope: 5X18 / Eyepiece: H6mm, H12.5mm, H20mm
  • Accessories: Moon mirror / Table-top Aluminum Tripod
  • Finder Scope Adjustment

As the telescope only offers a limited field of view, it may be fairly hard to locate the object for observation. This is why the telescope is fitted with a cross-hair finder scope for orientation purposes. We recommend performing the following adjustments in daylight.

  1. Insert the eyepiece with the lower magnification into the diagonal mirror. Observe an easily recognizable fixed object that is no more than 300 meters away. Adjust and focusing the telescope until the object is located right in the center of your field of view.
  2. Now look through the finder scope, If you can not see the fixed object, slacken the adjusting nut and move the finder scope until you can see the object. Then tighten down the adjusting nut making sure that the object remains visible in the center of the finder scope.

About Magnification

  • The magnification power of a telescope indicates how much an image is enlarged or how big and close it appears to the viewer. The focal length of the eyepiece, combined with the focal length of the telescope, determine the magnification power.
  • To calculate the power of your telescope with any particular eyepiece, simply divide the focal length of the telescope (400mm) by the focal length of the eyepiece (indicated in “mm” on the eyepiece collar). When you use the eyepiece H6mm with this telescope, the magnification will be 66X.

Moon mirror

Because there is great deal of reflected glare when the full moon is observed, the addition of the moon mirror will remove this glare and make it possible to sharpen surface details. The moon mirror is screwed into the eyepiece when you view the moon.

HOW TO USE

  • Open the tripod.
  • Place the telescope tube onto the tripod mount.
  • Insert the diagonal mirror into the focus tube.
  • Insert the eyepiece into the diagonal mirror.
  • Adjust the focus knob to view the clear image.
  • WARNING: NEVER aim your telescope at the sun or close to the sun!
  • CAUTION: Do not let children use any telescope without supervision!

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