Best Alt-Azimuth (Manually Operated) Catadioptric Telescopes

The main considerations when selecting a telescope are the aperture level and focal length. A larger aperture enables one to see far objects with less light. However, the bigger the aperture, the bigger the telescope, which limits its portability. The focal length impacts the viewing distance. Another important consideration is the type of telescope (reflector, refractor, or catadioptric), which determines whether it is compatible for close and bright objects (as the moon) or for long-distance stars.

The main considerations when selecting a telescope are the aperture level and focal length. A larger aperture enables one to see far objects with less light. However, the bigger the aperture, the bigger the telescope, which limits its portability. The focal length impacts the viewing distance. Another important consideration is the type of telescope (reflector, refractor, or catadioptric), which determines whether it is compatible for close and bright objects (as the moon) or for long-distance stars.

Catadioptrics are the most popular telescopes for deep-sky and bright objects stargazing. A compromise between a reflector and a refractor telescope, they offer the best features of both. They are good for astrophotography, and most models are compact and portable. Their price normally falls between reflectors and refractors.

Catadioptrics are the most popular telescopes for deep-sky and bright objects stargazing. A compromise between a reflector and a refractor telescope, they offer the best features of both. They are good for astrophotography, and most models are compact and portable. Their price normally falls between reflectors and refractors. Read More

An alt-azimuth mount is a simple telescope mount that enables vertical (up-down) and horizontal (right-left) movement. It is generally lighter than equatorial mounts and is mostly operated manually (not motorized). For best stability and low cost, choose a dobsonian altazimuth mount.

An alt-azimuth mount is a simple telescope mount that enables vertical (up-down) and horizontal (right-left) movement. It is generally lighter than equatorial mounts and is mostly operated manually (not motorized). For best stability and low cost, choose a dobsonian altazimuth mount. Read Less