How to choose your first telescope

Essentials

‍Choosing your first telescope can feel overwhelming, with so many options, features, and price ranges available. The good news is that you don’t need the most expensive model to start exploring the night sky. The right telescope is the one that matches your budget, interests, and level of experience.

Start with your goals

Ask yourself what you’d like to see. If your main interest is the Moon and planets, a smaller refractor telescope may be ideal. For star clusters, nebulae, and galaxies, a reflector telescope with a larger aperture will reveal more detail. Understanding your goals will narrow down your choices and help you avoid frustration later.

Aperture matters most

The aperture — the diameter of the main lens or mirror — is the most important factor in a telescope. A larger aperture collects more light, making faint objects brighter and clearer. As a rule, prioritize aperture size over magnification. A 4–6 inch (100–150 mm) telescope is a great starting point for beginners.

Types of telescopes

• Refractor: Uses lenses, low maintenance, great for the Moon and planets.

• Reflector: Uses mirrors, offers larger apertures for lower cost, ideal for deep-sky viewing.

• Compound (catadioptric): Combines lenses and mirrors, versatile but often more expensive.

Mounts & stability

A telescope is only as good as its mount. An alt-azimuth mount is simple to use, moving up-down and left-right. An equatorial mount tracks objects as they move across the sky, useful for longer viewing or astrophotography. Sturdiness is key — a shaky mount can ruin your viewing experience.

Final thoughts

‍The best telescope is the one you’ll actually use. Start with something manageable, learn the sky, and upgrade later if your passion grows. Stargazing is about exploration and enjoyment, not just equipment. With the right first telescope, you’ll open a new window to the universe and spark a lifelong journey of discovery.