Best Alt-Azimuth (Manually Operated) Telescopes For Beginners

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.

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 More

Telescopes for beginners should have an 80mm to 150mm aperture level and a focal length of 500mm to 1350mm. With 150mm aperture, you can see Saturn’s Rings detached from the planet ball, as well as galaxies beyond our Milky Way. A telescope with a 900-1200mm (35-47 Inch) focal length is good for an all-around first telescope.

Telescopes for beginners should have an 80mm to 150mm aperture level and a focal length of 500mm to 1350mm. With 150mm aperture, you can see Saturn’s Rings detached from the planet ball, as well as galaxies beyond our Milky Way. A telescope with a 900-1200mm (35-47 Inch) focal length is good for an all-around first telescope. Read Less