Best Alt-Azimuth (Manually Operated) Reflector 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.

Reflector telescopes are cheaper entry-level choices for deep sky objects (with low light). They are more portable than refractors and the only type of telescope that does not show a mirror image (helps in sky navigation). Reflectors require more maintenance (cleaning away dust and aligning mirrors).

Reflector telescopes are cheaper entry-level choices for deep sky objects (with low light). They are more portable than refractors and the only type of telescope that does not show a mirror image (helps in sky navigation). Reflectors require more maintenance (cleaning away dust and aligning mirrors). 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