Telescopes

A good starting point is the aperture, the larger the aperture, the more light your telescope can gather, improving detail on planets, nebulae, and galaxies. Beginner astronomy telescopes often use 70–90 mm refractors or 114–130 mm reflectors for a balanced mix of ease-of-use and performance.

Next, decide on the type: a refractor telescope with a long, slim optical tube is typically maintenance-free and great for sharp lunar and planetary views; a reflector telescope usually offers more aperture at a lower price and is excellent for deep-sky targets; a compound or catadioptric model provides versatility and compactness for both backyard stargazing and travel.

Mounts and tripods matter, too. A sturdy equatorial or alt-azimuth mount reduces shake during observation and makes tracking celestial objects easier, especially with higher magnifications. For portability, look for lightweight portable telescope kits that include a sturdy tripod, quick-alignment finder, and a couple of eyepieces.

Consider optics compatibility: eyepieces, Barlow lenses for increased magnification, and smartphone or camera adapters for basic astrophotography. Budget wisely, but remember that accessories often improve the user experience far more than a small price difference in the main scope.

Refractor telescopes are favored for crisp, high-contrast images ideal for planetary viewing, while reflector telescopes offer more aperture per pound and excellent value for deep-sky objects. Compound or Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes blend the best of both worlds with compact designs and versatile optics, great for mixed night-sky observing and entry-level astrophotography.

For families and beginners, a small kid telescope or beginner astronomy set can be a gentle entry point, while more advanced hobbyists may look at 8 inch or 6 inch telescopes for deeper detail and longer observing sessions. Don’t forget solar solarspecific setups or solar filters if you ever plan to observe the Sun safely.

Find a dark, sheltered spot away from streetlights. Set up your astronomy telescope on solid ground and level the tripod. Attach a finder scope to help locate bright targets, then switch to a wide-angle eyepiece for initial scanning. Gradually move to higher magnifications, but remember that a larger magnification often reveals more faint detail only when stability and seeing conditions are good.

Begin with the Moon or bright planets, then sweep the Milky Way for star clusters and nebulae. Keep a star chart or astronomy app handy to recognize constellations and guide your telescope to interesting deep-sky objects. Regular practice improves alignment, tracking, and enjoyment of stargazing sessions.

Yes, many entry-level setups support basic astrophotography. For long-exposure night photos of the Moon, planets, or brighter deep-sky targets, a sturdy mount and a camera or smartphone adapter are essential. An equatorial mount helps with smooth tracking, reducing star trails. Beginners often start with piggyback setups or piggybacking a small DSLR onto a dedicated telescope, then progress to stacking multiple images to improve signal-to-noise and reveal faint detail.

If you’re exploring imaging on Wowcher, look for bundles including camera adapters, additional eyepieces, and protective cases, the easiest way to expand your astro photography capability without breaking the bank.

Eyepieces are the quickest way to change magnification. A wide-field telescope setup benefits from lower magnification eyepieces to frame deep-sky objects. A Barlow lens can double or triple magnification without changing eyepieces. A sturdy finder scope helps with initial locating. A good mount and tripod are critical for stability, while dew shields prevent moisture accumulation on glass surfaces in cool nights.

Filters like light-pollution filters or color filters can enhance contrast for planets and nebulae. Portable power solutions, such as rechargeable batteries, keep you observing away from outlets. For portability and protection, consider a dedicated transport case and protective lens caps. With Wowcher deals, you can assemble a complete kit with all the essentials in one budget-friendly package.

For beginners, look for entry-level refractor or small reflector kits with a few eyepieces, a sturdy mount, and a basic education guide. Under a budget, a compact 70–90 mm refractor or a 114–130 mm reflector is often the sweet spot, offering good planetary detail and beginner-friendly setup. Bundles featuring an extra eyepiece set, anti-glare filters, and a protective case deliver the best value for budding astronomers looking to grow their collection over time.

Whether you’re shopping for a child’s first telescope, a weekend stargazer, or an aspiring astrophotographer, Wowcher makes it easy to compare telescopes, astronomy accessories, and bundles with clear savings, so you can start exploring the night sky today.