This sturdy telescope with integrated Wi-Fi that works in conjunction with a free Celestron SkyPortal app for both iOS and Android devices – although there are some reports that the on-board Wi-Fi can be unreliable.Īiming to provide clear views of the Moon and the planets beyond, it features a large 130mm lens and promises a wide field of view. Not sold? Check out some more mid-range all-rounders in our Celestron Inspire 100AZ refractor vs Meade Polaris 114mm reflector telescope face-off.īringing star gazing bang up-to-date is the Celestron 22203 AstroFi 130 Wireless Reflecting Telescope. A well-made and sturdy option for beginners and up, this one should whet your appetite for further investigation of the Moon – and beyond!
This gives their location in relation to fixed stars, while a separate latitude adjustment aids polar alignment. The latter is for controlling the 360° slow motion tracking gears, while its maker claims the flexibility of this telescope's dual metal setting circles allows for the tracking of planets in the night sky by their RA (Right Ascension) and DEC (declination) coordinates. This aluminium-constructed option's core specification comprises a 900mm focal length and an f/6.92 aperture.Īffording a relatively speedy set up, it also comes with a large accessory tray, a fully adjustable aluminium tripod and, as the picture indicates, a multi speed handset.
It claims to be a perfect option for all levels of stargazers, whether you interest is in examining our closest planet(s) or shooting for the stars. Our pick for the best telescope overall is the SkyWatcher Explorer 130M Motorised Newtonian Reflector Telescope. However you just need to ask yourself some key questions: what do you want to be able to see, how much room do you have, and how much do you want to spend? There's so much choice, and so many accessories and extras, that you might despair of working out what's the best option for you. Trying to find the best telescope can be pretty intimidating, especially if you're new to the whole business. To throw another option into the mix, you may also want to consider which are presently the best binoculars for watching the skies – and follow our explanation of binoculars vs telescope for stargazing … all part of us helping you make an informed purchase decision, rather than costly mistake. It's also worth adding that as a general rule of thumb, buying the best telescope you can afford is a sound piece of advice too much penny pinching can lead to a product with a performance that falls short for the amateur astronomer when it should be awe-inspiring. These are all things to actively consider when weighing up the best telescope for you. Inevitably more advanced telescopes come with a larger price tag, but on the plus side should result in better results and greater flexibility, which means you won't get bored or frustrated as quickly as you might with cheaper alternatives. For example, are you happy to pick out an affordable starter scope that is suitable primarily for viewing the Moon, or will you not be satisfied until you've peered further into deep space, perhaps with the aid of a more advanced computerized scope that will actively guide you to key points of interest in the heavens? (If it's the former, we also have a dedicated guide to the best beginner telescope to help you out.) Getting started with stargazing can be pricey, so it pays to do a bit of research to figure out the best telescope to suit your needs and ability level before splashing the cash.