Starting your journey into astronomy can be thrilling, and finding the ideal telescope as a beginner is a part of that.
Reflector telescopes are a favourite among newcomers. They are typically more affordable than their refracting counterparts while boasting larger apertures. This means you get more for your money when it comes to viewing the moon, planets and deep sky objects.
In this post, I’ll take you through some of the best reflector telescopes for beginners. We’ll examine three specific models that balance ease of use and the ability to impress with clear views of the night sky.
Choosing Your first Reflector Telescope: Things To Bear In Mind
When it comes to telescopes, the aperture size important. The aperture is the diameter of the telescope’s primary mirror, and a larger aperture means more light can be gathered, giving clearer and more detailed views of the cosmos.
As a novice, you’ll want a telescope with an ample aperture to excite you with bright, clear images, yet not so complex or cumbersome that it becomes a barrier to frequent use.
Focal length also plays a pivotal role, and here’s why.
It’s the distance between the telescope’s primary mirror and the point where the light rays come together to form an image. A longer focal length gives higher magnification but potentially a narrower field of view.
The best reflector telescopes for beginners should strike a balance between magnification and field of view.
My First Reflector!
A stable and user-friendly mount is another feature you cannot ignore. You’ll encounter two main types: altitude-azimuth (alt-az) and equatorial.
Alt-az mounts are intuitive and straightforward, ideal for beginners who want simplicity in tracking objects across the sky.
Equatorial mounts are more complex, catering to those interested in long exposure astrophotography or who anticipate a deep dive into stargazing.
An important thing to bear in mind with reflector telescopes is that although they have advantages over refractor telescopes, they do require more maintenance.
You can discover 3 Top Refractor Telescopes for Beginners here — ideal for lunar views and easy setup.
Another more obvious thing to consider is how much you want to spend on your telescope! Your budget is as personal as your interest in astronomy.
It’s tempting to opt for the least expensive model when starting out. However, investing in a telescope with better build quality and a good support system is invaluable in the long run.
Look for reviews, warranty information, and the manufacturer’s reputation to guide your purchase.
Reflector Telescopes For Beginners – Top Picks
Celestron 31042 Astromaster 114EQ Telescope
National Geographic 76/700 Reflector Telescope EQ
Celestron 21045 Powerseeker 114EQ Telescope
Celestron Astromaster 114EQ Telescope
The Astromaster from Celestron is a smart choice for enthusiastic beginners and seasoned amateurs alike looking to expand their sky-watching experience.
The balance between capability and simplicity is enough to excite an experienced user but doesn’t overwhelm someone newer to the hobby.
- POWERFUL REFLECTOR TELESCOPE: The Celestron AstroMaster 114EQ Newtonian telescope is a powerful and user-friendly reflector telescope. It features fully-coated glass optics, a sturdy and lightweight frame, two eyepieces, a StarPointer red dot finderscope and an adjustable tripod
- HIGH-QUALITY 114MM OPTICS: The heart of the system is a fully-coated 114mm primary mirror. The AstroMaster mount features two slow-motion control knobs that allow you to make precision adjustments to view celestial and terrestrial objects
- QUICK SETUP & LIGHTWEIGHT FRAME: This telescope for adults and kids to be used together features a lightweight frame and a manual German Equatorial mount for smooth and accurate pointing. Setup is quick and easy, with no tools required
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: We’ve included 2 eyepieces (20mm and 10mm), a tripod, and a StarPointer red dot finderscope. Accessories also include a FREE download of one of the top consumer rated astronomy software programs
- UNBEATABLE WARRANTY AND CUSTOMER SUPPORT: Buy with confidence from the world’s #1 telescope brand, based in California since 1960. You’ll also receive a two-year warranty
Celestron Astromaster Specifications
| Model Name / Number : | Celestron 31042 AstroMaster 114EQ Telescope |
| Telescope Type : | Newtonian Reflector |
| Type Of Mount : | Equatorial |
| Aperture : | 4.48″ (114mm) |
| Focal Length : | 1000mm (f/8.7) |
| Eyepieces Included : | 20mm and 10mm |
| Eyepiece Magnification : | 50x (20mm) and 100x (10mm) |
| Weight : | 9.00 kg |
| Rating : | 9.7 / 10 |
Construction
Many customer reviews of the Astromaster 114EQ state that they like the quality of the telescope. The build quality is good, the tripod is ok and the legs are sturdy.
The Astromaster 114EQ telescope mount comes equipped with two slow-motion control knobs. These allow you to make precise adjustments, This greatly enhances your ability to track and observe objects in the night sky.
Overall, most reviewers are more than satisfied with the quality and functionality of the product.
Optics
Optically the Astromaster 114EQ performs well. With its 114mm aperture, it gathers ample light to bring either the Moon and Planets or distant stars and nebulae into bright, sharp focus.
The fully coated primary mirror gives images that are crisp, and the included eyepieces allowed for a variety of magnifications.
Accessories
The Celestron Astromaster 114 EQ telescope comes with a range of accessories to enhance your stargazing experience.
You’ll receive two eyepieces-a 20mm eyepiece and a 10mm eyepiece. These provide different magnifications for both low-powered and high-powered views.
A red-dot finderscope is included to help you locate celestial objects quickly and accurately.
Access to download Celestron’s Starry Night Software is free and included. A premier astronomy package, it provides resources and knowledge about the night sky, celestial objects, and planning observing sessions.
Limitations
Certainly this telescope is not without limitations. The stability of the tripod could be improved and the setup, while straightforward, has a learning curve that might challenge the patience of beginners.
Although the Astromaster 114EQ holds collimation well, regular collimation adjustments are necessary for optimal performance. You can read more about collimation in the article Telescope Accessories – for better observing
These limitations are not deal breakers and can be viewed as common trade-offs at this price point.
Final Thoughts
if you’re starting your voyage into the cosmos or are looking to gift a telescope to an aspiring astronomer, the AstroMaster 114EQ is a worthy investment. It blends decent quality, ease of use, and an attractive price, making it a solid purchase decision.
Back To “Top Picks“
National Geographic 76/700 EQ Telescope
The National Geographic 76/700 Reflector Telescope EQ stands out as a notable option for budding astronomers and casual stargazers.
National Geographic is a brand synonymous with the pursuit of exploration and discovery. The history of National Geographic telescopes is rich with innovation and a strong emphasis on education.
A major draw for newcomers is its user-friendly nature. The simplicity in its design and functionality ensures that anyone can begin using it without feeling overwhelmed. It’s perfect for those who are eager to explore but prefer a tool that doesn’t require a steep learning curve.
- Perfect for beginners to astronomy: this reflector telescope with 76 mm main mirror allows you to observe moon craters and large planets, and offers an excellent introduction to the world of celestial bodies.
- Equatorial Mount & Tripod: The stable, equatorial mount allows easy alignment to the polar star while the sturdy tripod provides a solid base for observation.
- Magnification and focal length: with a focal length of 700 mm and magnifications from 23x to 262x, you can observe impressive details of the big planets and countless moon craters.
- Smartphone holder included: capture your astronomical discoveries by connecting your smartphone to the telescope and taking stunning photos of the stars and planets
- Extensive accessories included: the entry-level telescope comes with mount, tripod, 3 eyepieces, viewfinderscope, reverse lens, Barlow lens and moon filter, so you can start exploring the sky immediately.
National Geographic 76/700 Specifications
| Model Name / Number : | National Geographic 76/700 Reflector Telescope EQ |
| Telescope Type : | Newtonian Reflector |
| Type Of Mount : | Equatorial |
| Aperture : | 3.03″ (76mm) |
| Focal Length : | 700mm (f/9.2) |
| Eyepieces Included : | 3 Eyepieces: 9mm, 12.5mm, and 25mm + 3x Barlow Lens |
| Eyepiece Magnification : | 23x to 262x (with included eyepieces and Barlow lens) |
| Rating : | 9.8 / 10 |
Construction
The design of the National Geographic 76 700 Reflector Telescope EQ emphasizes simplicity and robustness, ideal for those who appreciate a blend of durability and practicality. Constructed with a sturdy frame, it handles regular use and movement with ease.
Most users find the assembly process involves just a few basic steps, thanks to its well-designed components that fit together seamlessly. For a telescope in its price range, this ease of setup is a significant benefit.
The Equatorial mount is also a significant plus point for this telescope. It allows for more precise tracking of celestial objects, ideal for learning how the sky moves.
Portability is another highlight. Designed with both function and mobility in mind, its manageable weight allows for smooth transport to different observation points. Whether you’re heading to the backyard or a more remote location for clearer skies, this telescope can tag along without being a burden.
Optics
A telescope’s strength lies in its optics, and the 76/700 Reflector EQ delivers a reasonable performance for its category.
The lens and mirror quality make a noticeable difference when observing. The precision with which these components are crafted ensures a better viewing experience.
This reduces common issues like chromatic aberration that can blur or distort the image in lesser telescopes.
With adjustable magnification options to suit different interests, users can customize their view to explore a variety of celestial wonders.
The provided eyepieces are ideal for classic observations and offer ample range for a satisfying stargazing experience without requiring immediate upgrades.
When compared with other models within the same price bracket, the 76/700 EQ holds its ground well.
Its balance of optical quality and affordability makes it a favourite among beginners who seek decent performance without delving deep into more expensive gear.
Accessories
This entry-level telescope comes fully equipped with a mount, tripod, three eyepieces, a Barlow lens, a viewfinder scope, and a moon filter, giving you everything you need to start exploring the night sky right away.
Also, a smartphone holder is included, allowing you to connect your phone to the telescope and capture great photos of the night sky.
Limitations
Every product has its boundaries, and the 76 700 Reflector EQ is no exception.
One limitation of note is its focusing mechanism, which can be a bit tricky to adjust precisely, especially for those new to telescope use. It requires a bit of patience and a gentle touch to get the focus just right.
Technologically, the 76/700 is quite basic. It’s designed for traditional observation, which means if you’re expecting modern computerized features that automatically find and track objects, this isn’t the model to go for.
For tech enthusiasts, this lack of features might necessitate looking into other models or considering upgrades via accessories, increasing the initial investment.
Final Thoughts
The telescope’s blend of manageable cost and functional optics makes it a worthy candidate for anyone looking to embark on their stargazing journey without committing to high-end equipment right out of the gate.
It’s designed for straightforward setup and offers the kind of exploration-friendly features that could spark a lasting interest in astronomy.
If simplicity and hands-on exploration appeal to you, this model can serve as a great entry point into the world of astronomy.
Those just starting out can gain plenty of insight and enjoyment from their lunar and planetary observations with this telescope.
Back To “Top Picks“
Celestron 21045 Powerseeker 114EQ
Celestron has been a trusted name in the world of telescopes, known for making quality products accessible to both amateur astronomers and seasoned stargazers.
The 21045 Powerseeker 114EQ model is a great example of what they bring to the table: a blend of performance, affordability, and user-friendly features.
- PERFECT BEGINNERS TELESCOPE: The Celestron PowerSeeker 114EQ is an easy-to-use and powerful telescope. The PowerSeeker series is designed to give the first-time telescope user the perfect combination of quality, value, features, and power
- MANUAL GERMAN EQUATORIAL MOUNT: Navigate the sky with our Newtonian Reflector telescope. It features a German Equatorial mount with a slow-motion altitude rod for smooth and accurate pointing. Adjust rod to desired position, then easily secure by tightening cross knob
- COMPACT AND PORTABLE: This telescope for adults and kids to be used together is compact, lightweight, and portable. Take the telescope to your favourite campsite or dark sky observing site, or simply the backyard
- MULTIPLE ACCESSORIES: The Celestron PowerSeeker 114EQ Telescope features 2 eyepieces (20mm and 4mm), finderscope, plus a 3x Barlow lens to triple the power of each. Accessories also include a FREE download of one of the top consumer rated astronomy software programs
- UNBEATABLE WARRANTY AND CUSTOMER SUPPORT: Buy with confidence from the world’s #1 telescope brand, based in California since 1960. You’ll also receive a 2-year warranty
Celestron Powerseeker Specifications
| Model Name / Number : | Celestron 21045 Powerseeker 114EQ Telescope |
| Telescope Type : | Reflector |
| Type Of Mount : | Equatorial |
| Aperture : | 5.28″ (134mm) |
| Focal Length : | 650mm (f/4.9) |
| Eyepieces Included : | 25mm and 10mm |
| Eyepiece Magnification : | 26x (25mm) and 65x (10mm) |
| Weight : | 8.84 kg |
| Rating : | 9.8 / 10 |
Construction
The Celestron 21045 Powerseeker 114EQ is constructed from materials that balance durability and weight.
The main tube and mount are primarily made from aluminium, providing a sturdy yet lightweight structure that’s easy to handle. The aluminium tripod features adjustable legs, allowing for a stable setup on various surfaces.
Setting up the telescope is straightforward, even for those new to astronomy. The assembly process is intuitive, with clear instructions that help you piece everything together quickly.
One of the highlights of this package is the equatorial mount. Unlike simpler altazimuth mounts, the equatorial mount is designed for tracking celestial objects with greater accuracy.
It offers smoother motions and better alignment with the movement of the sky. This feature is particularly beneficial for those interested in longer observation sessions or astrophotography.
Optics
The Celestron 21045 Powerseeker 114EQ stands out with its optical capabilities, especially given its price point. The telescope features a 114mm aperture, which captures a generous amount of light.
This means you get brighter and clearer images, even when observing faint celestial objects. The quality of the optics is evident in the crispness and detail visible through the eyepiece.
The quality of the optics is evident in the crispness and detail visible through the eyepiece. The telescope includes two eyepieces—a 20mm and a 4mm—allowing for varied magnifications.
The 20mm eyepiece provides a broader view, excellent for scanning the night sky and getting an overall sense of your surroundings.
The 4mm eyepiece, on the other hand, offers higher magnification, perfect for zooming in on specific features like lunar craters or the rings of Saturn.
Accessories
The Celestron 21045 Powerseeker 114EQ comes with a well-rounded set of accessories that enhance its usability.
The package includes a sturdy finderscope that helps in locating celestial objects, crucial for those starting their astronomy journey.
Paired with this is the included tripod, which is both adjustable and stable, providing a solid base for your observations.
As well as the two eyepieces, a great addition to the accessories list is the inclusion of a Barlow lens. This accessory effectively triples the magnification of the eyepieces, giving you even more flexibility in your observations.
Limitations
There are a few limitations associated with beginner telescopes and the Powerseeker 114EQ is no different in that respect.
The equatorial mount, while designed for accurate tracking, can be tricky for beginners. Setting it up involves aligning with the Earth’s axis, which can be a bit of a puzzle if you’re not familiar.
The finder scope can also be a bit fiddly – aligning it correctly is crucial but can prove tricky for beginners. Also the included tripod, while entirely functional, may test your patience with a slight wobble here and there.
Patience in setup and fine-tuning is a virtue with the PowerSeeker 114EQ. It’s not a deal-breaker but setting expectations is important.
Final Thoughts
The Powerseeker 114EQ has a clean, professional look. The black and silver colour scheme gives it a sleek appearance, making it a visually appealing addition to any setup. The compact design not only looks good but also makes storage and transportation easier.
Overall, the Celestron 21045 Powerseeker 114EQ offers a user-friendly package with enough accessories to keep both beginners and intermediate users satisfied. It’s designed to be versatile and upgradable, making it a great starting point for budding astronomers who want a balance between performance and value.
Back To “Top Picks“
