TheTelescope

For a beginner telescope, one should expect to pay between $100 - $400 for a decent starter scope. However, one should be aware that around this price range there are plenty of “junk” telescopes that are of poor mechanical and optical quality. Here, we have listed the top 5 beginner telescopes in terms of build quality, optics, functionality and accessories:

1. Meade 70AZ-AR Altazimuth Refractor
$79

The Meade 70AZ-AR includes an altazimuth mount with a slow motion control in vertical. The coated, color-corrected objective lens yields sharp, clear images ideally suited to the beginning astronomer or terrestrial observer: the rings of Saturn, four satellites of Jupiter, and hundreds of Moon craters are only the beginning of what can be observed through this telescope.

2. Celestron AstroMaster 114 EQ
$199

The Celestron AstroMaster is excellent beginner reflector telscope that boasts first-rate build quality, a sturdy German Equitorial Mount (GEM) and tripod for viewing. The size and footprint of the telescope is small, meaning you can easily move it in any out of your room or house for quick viewing. Lunar viewing is outstanding, with the 20mm presenting the globe of the moon filling all but the edges of the eyepiece.

3. Meade NGC-70TC 70mm Refracting Computerized Telescope
$199

Meade’s NG70 is a 70mm computerized refracting telescope that combines improved light-gathering ability that produces noticeably sharper images of both celestial and terrestrial objects, making for a much better viewing experience. All the major planets except Pluto are clearly visible. The Moon stands out in near three-dimensional detail, and dozens of external galaxies are visible; in addition to our own Milky Way. This telescope displays hundreds of nebulae, star clusters, double and multiple stars, and variable stars.

4. Celestron NexStar 60 SLT
$279

The NexStar 60 SLT is a 60mm refractor telescope that includes a fully-computerized altazimuth mount with a database of over 4,000 celestial objects. With its pre-assembled, adjustable steel tripod, the NexStar 60 SLT can be up and ready to use in a matter of minutes. Unlike other entry-level computerized telescopes, the NexStar features flash upgradeable and GPS compatibility usually only found in much pricier competitors.

5. Zhumell 8-Inch Dobsonian Reflector
$349

With a traditional Dobsonian mount, the Dobson 8″ is easy to use. The 8″ mirror provides excellent contrast and definition. Combine these features with a built-in laser collimator (to make alignment of your mirrors even easier) and you will see that the Zhumell Dobson telescopes are a true value for money. This telescope provide amateur astronomers with the aperture needed to view faint deep sky object. One can expect to see picture-perfect views of planets and stars with this telescope.