Look for the telescope's specifications near its focuser, at the front of the tube, or on the box. The most important characteristic of a telescope is its aperture - the diameter of its light-gathering lens or mirror, often called the objective. Aperture: A Telescope's Most Important Feature But don't overlook portability and convenience - the best scope for you is the one you'll actually use. And all other things being equal, big scopes show more and are easier to use than small ones, as we'll see below. The telescope you want has two essentials: high-quality optics and a steady, smoothly working mount. Armed with these few basic types of telescopes, you'll have a good idea what to look for (and what to avoid) when scouring the marketplace for your new scope. So here is a guide to help you make sense of the 'universe' of telescope models available today.

Many (arguably most) good starter scopes cost $400 or more, though some superb choices are available for under $250. Instead, you should choose a telescope based on your observing interests, lifestyle, and budget. It can be a portal to the universe and provide a lifetime of enjoyment.īut there's no one 'perfect' telescope - just as there's no such thing as a perfect car. With a little guidance, you can pick a high-quality telescope that can last a lifetime.Ī telescope is a popular gift, especially so during the holidays.

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