The 10 Best Telescopes To See Planets Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts

Scott Nelson By, Scott Nelson
Updated
Best Telescopes To See Planets
Best Telescopes To See Planets

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: ECOOPRO 70mm Astronomy Refractor Telescope

The 70mm telescope excels at daytime birding use, viewing wildlife scenery, and casual nighttime observing of the Moon. It is a lightweight, compact telescope that easily fits in your bag or backpack. Read Review

2. Best For Price: Celestron - NexStar 130SLT Computerized Telescope

The unique thing about this product is it has a vast primary mirror of 127 millimeters in diameter and serves as the focal point of the Maksutov-Cassegrain optical system implemented in the telescope. Read Review

3. Best Images: ToyerBee Telescope

The objective lens of the telescope has a big aperture of 70 millimeters, which helps improve the images' contrast and brightness. Observing the planets and the moon with a professional telescope is possible for adults and children. Read Review

4. Best Portable: Gskyer Telescope 80mm AZ

The Gskyer Telescope is perfect for those who enjoy viewing the Moon and planets or bringing distant wildlife close for detailed views. It offers high-power eyepieces that can achieve up to 18x magnification. Read Review

5. Best Design: Celestron - NexStar 4SE Telescope

The NexStar 4SE is Celestron's flagship telescope due to its cutting-edge capabilities, exceptional optics, and user-friendliness. It also has several other impressive features that will be worth the price. Read Review

Small, chilly, and far from Earth, planets in our galaxy appear tiny and faint. Even the largest telescope will struggle to view them. But that doesn’t mean you can’t see their presence — just not for long.

Astronomers offer several reasons why viewing planets is so tricky. For one thing, they require a great deal of light to be visible. A world appears as a tiny dot while it’s close enough to Earth, making it even harder to see through the glare of our atmosphere. And then there are the atmospheric distortions that keep us from seeing further than an arm’s length away from us (at least without using special equipment). Still, even if you don’t have access to an expensive telescope or can only afford a low-end model, there are some great options on the market right now! 

We think the highly recommended product for the best telescopes to see planets is ECOOPRO 70mm Astronomy Refractor Telescope. It has a refractor telescope with dimensions of 360 millimeters by 70 millimeters that can provide an excellent view of the moon and other terrestrial objects. In case you need more alternatives and more in-depth guidance, you may explore the following.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 ECOOPRO 70mm Astronomy Refractor Telescope
Our Score:
9.8
ECOOPRO

An astronomical telescope is the finest present for encouraging people of all ages to learn about and appreciate nature and life. A refractor telescope with dimensions of 360 millimeters by 70 millimeters can provide an excellent view of the moon and other terrestrial objects. It is ideal for novices who want to explore the big sky and see things like moons, planets, clusters, and fog, as well as take in distant landscapes such as mountains, flowers, birds, and wild animals.

Lenses are made of multi-layered glass with a green coating that delivers clear and crisp images and 99% total light transmission. Optical components are all coated glass, and lenses feature this coating. On the other hand, touching it can cause it to shake, which makes it somewhat difficult to concentrate on what you're looking at because it moves around. It would be best to handle it with care and refrain from moving it about an excessive amount.

TOP Choice #2 Celestron - NexStar 130SLT Computerized Telescope
Our Score:
9.7
Celestron

There are more than 40,000 stars, galaxies, nebulae, and other sorts of celestial objects included in the database of the Celestron NexStar 130SLT. You can select an item from the list, and the telescope will locate it in the sky at night and continue to track it even as it moves. Because any movement from the focuser knob is evident in the image, focusing can be a challenge; nevertheless, this difficulty is primarily attributable to the limitations of the mount. On the other hand, the vistas are breathtaking once the concentration has been attained and the scope has been established.

This telescope is elementary to transport due to its small size, low weight, and portability, making it perfect for families with children of varying ages. It is simple to move to practically any location, whether it is your favored camping spot, a region famed for its dark sky, or a garden. After going through the revolutionary SkyAlign method developed by Celestron, you can start observing in just a few minutes. Simply by concentrating the eyepiece of the NexStar SLT on any three bright objects, the device will automatically align itself to the night sky and be ready to locate thousands of things.

TOP Choice #3 ToyerBee Telescope
Our Score:
9.6
ToyerBee

This refractor telescope features a 3X Barlow lens in addition to its two eyepieces, which measure 20mm and 6mm in diameter, respectively. The magnifying power of each eyepiece is increased by a factor of three thanks to the use of a Barlow lens. Therefore, you can achieve magnification anywhere from 15X up to 150X. 

The astronomical telescope has a tripod that allows the height to be adjusted from 16 inches up to 46 inches to accommodate various viewing positions. It is easy to align the view and see Jupiter and its largest satellites when the magnification is low, but raising the magnification with the 3x Barlow lens and 6mm eyepiece on the provided tripod makes it quite difficult to align the view. To get the most out of the experience, it is strongly recommended that you acquire a better tripod. In general, this product is a good value for beginners.

4 Gskyer Telescope 80mm AZ
Our Score:
9.4
Gskyer

This Gskyer telescope features a focal length of 400 millimeters, an aperture of 80 millimeters, and optical glass that has been coated for excellent image brightness and safety for your eyes. All of these specifications come standard with this camera. A mounting bracket and an erect-image diagonal are included on a 6x30 finder scope, making it significantly easier to spot objects.

Thanks to the tripod that comes with this telescope are entirely adjustable, you will have many viewing options available. A full-size tripod that can be adjusted is an excellent choice for a stable platform. Because this will cause the moisture in the air to condense on the objective of the telescope, it would be best if you were careful not to mistakenly transport the telescope into an area with a more significant temperature differential. Never point the eyepiece of your telescope in any direction that is even remotely close to the sun. Children who are fascinated by astronomy and other science areas will adore receiving this gift.

5 Celestron - NexStar 4SE Telescope
Our Score:
9.2
Celestron

This telescope from Celestron offers the well-known "orange tube" design that the firm is known for, in addition to current technology and cutting-edge features that make it possible for novice astronomers and seasoned experts to enjoy spectacular views of the night sky. This primary mirror can gather sufficient light to enable the user to examine the best that the Solar System offers, such as Saturn's rings, the cloud bands on Jupiter, and the geographic characteristics that may be found on the surface of the Moon.

It offers incredible views at a fair price, making it a fantastic choice for anyone interested in getting their first large telescope. The only downside is this mount can be a little sluggish and whining when you turn it. In general, the NexStar 4SE is a telescope that can adjust to your changing demands no matter where you are in your trip through astronomy. This is true regardless of where you are in your journey.

6 ESSLNB Telescope 28X-350X Telescopes
Our Score:
9.1
ESSLNB

This telescope has the outstanding image quality and a high magnification capability; as a result, it is an ideal instrument for use in the exploration of the night sky by children, rookie astronomers, and amateur astronomers. You can pass the time in the interim by taking in the sights during the day. Because the telescope's vertical adjustment range is 180 degrees and its horizontal adjustment range is 360 degrees, it can perform rapid and accurate monitoring of objects during the day and the night.

Using a metal moon filter improves your ability to better observe and shield your eyes from glare. The fact that this product does not come with instructions makes it a little difficult for you to use it; however, if you have any questions or concerns, you can get in touch with the customer service teams, as they are very good at responding to inquiries or you can watch the video guide on youtube or website to know it better.

7 HEXEUM Telescope 80mm Aperture 600mm
Our Score:
8.9
HEXEUM

A more significant amount of light is taken in by the Telescope 80mm Aperture of 600mm since it has a focal length of 600mm (f/6.7) and an aperture of 80mm. The included wireless remote control, and the carrying case, will make it much simpler to move around and take breathtaking photographs. This tool also contains a multi-fully high transmission coated all-optical lens, which enhances the image's brightness and clarity.

This telescope is simple to put together and only takes around five minutes. It can also be quickly disassembled and stored back in the carrying case that is included. The first time you use it, you could make a few mistakes, but if you figure out how to dial in focus and have it appropriately oriented according to the directions, the pictures you take will be crystal clear.

More To Consider

10 Dianfan 90x700 Telescope
Our Score:
8.3
Dianfan

What to Look For in a best telescopes to see planets?

It may take a long longer to make the best shopping decision. As a result, we are accessible to assist you with your best telescopes to see planets issue at any time of day or night!

There are some highlighted features of best telescopes to see planets you should be aware of before make decision:

Mount

There are many types of telescope mounts available. Some even have computerized models that track and follow the movement of the skies. A sturdy Dobsonian or altazimuth mount will make stargazing enjoyable. Telescopes not mounted on a computerized mount should not be moved or adjusted for focus.
An equatorial tracking mounting mount is necessary for astrophotography. The telescope will track objects in night sky when it is properly polar aligned. This will "freeze" an object in space, allowing for long exposure photographs.

Portability And Weight

A telescope that is easy to transport and set up takes would be a good choice. You will be less motivated to use your telescope when it is set up and taking too much time.
You'll find it difficult to take a heavy, bulky telescope outside when the temperatures drop. Advanced amateur astronomers build observatories at home to keep their large telescopes up at all times.
Extra-large mounts and telescopes are not recommended for those with health problems or who cannot lift heavy objects. It is better to choose something smaller and lighter. It will be more useful.

Optical Design

There are many optical options for telescopes. These include reflectors and refractors as well as compound telescopes. Each telescope has its strengths and weaknesses. Refractors are my favorite type of telescope from an astrophotography standpoint, but they might not be the best choice for beginners.
Three types of optics are available for consumer telescopes. They will assist you in achieving three different goals. Refractor telescopes make it easy to focus celestial bodies such as the moon and nearby planets using a variety of glass lenses. Refractor telescopes, also known as Newtonian scopes after their inventor Sir Isaac Newton, swap lenses for mirrors. This allows stargazers to see further into space. The versatile compound telescope combines both of these methods with a compact, portable design that puts it right in the middle.

Aperture

This aperture is recognizable by photographers. It controls how much light enters the telescope, just like on a manual camera. The aperture is the diameter of either the primary or lens mirror. A telescope with a larger aperture will draw more light, which can result in deeper views. The most important spec to be aware of is F-ratio. For wide-field observation and photography, low f-ratios such as f/4 and f/5 are best. However, high f-ratios such as f/15 make deep-space objects and nebulae easier to capture and see. Both can be done with midpoint f-ratios.

Eyepieces

There are many telescope eyepieces on the market. There are many options for magnification and viewing angles. A set of telescope eyepieces allows you to see large areas of the night sky and high magnification views on planets. If taken care of properly, a quality telescope eyepiece will last a lifetime.

Objective

The objective is the main light-collecting element of a telescope. A larger objective will allow for greater detail and reveal smaller targets. A reflector design makes it possible to have a larger telescope objective for a more affordable price. However, a refractor with the same size would be expensive.

FAQs

How Much Does A Telescope For Beginners Cost?

There are many factors that can affect the cost of a telescope. A good telescope doesn't necessarily have to cost a lot of money. However, cheaper models might not offer the same magnifying power or other features needed by someone who is just beginning.

Are Telescopes Easy To Maintain And Service?

You will need to collimate your telescope (or at least make sure you check it every time you take it out), and clean it every few months or so. The only thing required for collimation is a star or a collimation tool. Cleaning is usually a simple rinse with distilled or ophthalmic water (for mirrors), or with optical tissue or coating-safe lens cleaner (for lenses).

Why Is Aperture Size So Important When Choosing A Telescope?

What is the importance of aperture size when selecting a telescope?
Aspect size is a crucial aspect of choosing a telescope. A telescope's aperture size is a key factor in determining its ability to harvest light. The bigger the aperture, or primary mirror, the better the telescope will be at capturing that light and the greater the number of objects and details you can see.

Reflector telescopes have a major advantage: it is much simpler and more affordable to create a larger mirror than a larger lens. A refractor equipped with an 80mm objective lens will give you better view of the celestial objects than a mirror with a larger 114mm. The differences get even more pronounced when you go up to a 150mm or 130mm mirror.

What Are The Three Main Types Of Telescopes?

Three types of telescopes exist: refractors (or reflectors), catadioptrics (or catadioptrics). The lenses used by refracting telescopes to make an image. To gather light, reflectors telescopes make use of mirrors. Catadioptric telescopes use both.

Can You See Galaxies With A Telescope?

While any telescope will show you at most the Andromeda Galaxy with a minimum of effort, the quality of your views as well as the number of galaxies depend on the aperture of your telescope, the sky conditions and light pollution, and your observation skills.

What Is A Good Magnification For A Telescope To See The Planets?

To see the larger planets of our solar system, you need a magnification that is at least 30x. Magnification of at least 100x is required for planets like Mars. However, it is possible to go higher. Remember that the aperture plays a significant role in viewing any object through your telescope. It determines whether or not you are able to see finer details and how bright they appear.

We will keep the list of best telescopes to see planets up-to-date once there are new technology and information available. Please check our website frequently to see the most up-to-date information by our editor.

Do you have any questions or comments regarding best telescopes to see planets that you'd like to share with us? We will try to attain even greater comedy as a result of your efforts.


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About Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson is a freelance writer who specializes in camping and wildlife topics for CampFireHQ. He has written for several outdoor magazines and websites, and he enjoys nothing more than spending a weekend in the woods with his family. Scott is an experienced camper and backpacker, and he has also spent considerable time studying the behavior of bears and other large mammals.

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