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10 Best Telescope For Beginners 2025 in the UK

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#1

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Telescopes for Adults Astronomy, 80mm Aperture 600mm Refractor Telescope for Kids & Beginners, Compact and Portable Travel Telescopio with Backpack

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,217
Aperture
Mount Type
Portability
Aperture
Provides amazing views of the moon and other celestial objects, including Jupiter's moons.
Mount Type
The phone mount is a great addition, although the tripod could be sturdier.
Portability
Fantastic quality and easy to carry, making it perfect for countryside stargazing.

The EACONN 80mm Aperture 600mm Refractor Telescope is a compelling option for beginners and casual astronomy enthusiasts. With an 80mm aperture, it is capable of capturing more light, providing bright and clear images of celestial objects, a crucial aspect for stargazing. The fully coated optics further enhance this by improving light transmission and minimizing reflections, which contributes to better image quality.

Equipped with two eyepieces (K20mm and K9mm) that offer magnifications ranging from 30x to 66x, the telescope provides versatility for observing both larger and smaller celestial bodies. The inclusion of a 5x24 finderscope assists in locating objects easily, which is particularly beneficial for those new to astronomy.

Portability is another highlight, as the telescope comes with a backpack and an adjustable tripod, making it simple to transport for outdoor observations or travel. Weighing only 840 grams, it is lightweight and convenient to carry. The straightforward assembly process, supported by detailed instructions, makes it accessible to beginners.

However, the fixed focus might require some getting used to, as it limits the ability to fine-tune the focus manually. This feature may not appeal to those looking for more advanced focus adjustments. Additionally, while it is waterproof, using the telescope in poor weather conditions is generally not recommended.

The tripod mount offers stability, but extreme adjustments might be slightly cumbersome due to its basic design. Despite these minor limitations, this telescope is an excellent gift choice for beginners and provides ample opportunity for family fun, whether observing the moon, planets, or enjoying nature sights like birds and landscapes.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,217
Aperture
Mount Type
Portability
Aperture
Provides amazing views of the moon and other celestial objects, including Jupiter's moons.
Mount Type
The phone mount is a great addition, although the tripod could be sturdier.
Portability
Fantastic quality and easy to carry, making it perfect for countryside stargazing.

Buying Guide for the Best Telescope For Beginners

Choosing a telescope for beginners can be an exciting journey into the world of astronomy. The right telescope can open up a whole new universe of stars, planets, and celestial wonders. When selecting a telescope, it's important to consider several key specifications that will affect your viewing experience. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and find the best telescope for your needs.
ApertureAperture refers to the diameter of the telescope's main lens or mirror. It is one of the most important specs because it determines how much light the telescope can gather. A larger aperture allows you to see fainter objects and more detail. For beginners, an aperture of 70mm to 100mm is a good starting point. If you are interested in viewing planets and bright deep-sky objects, a larger aperture will be beneficial.
Focal LengthFocal length is the distance between the telescope's lens or mirror and the point where it forms an image. It affects the magnification and field of view. A longer focal length provides higher magnification, which is great for viewing planets and the moon. A shorter focal length offers a wider field of view, making it easier to locate and observe larger objects like star clusters. Beginners might prefer a telescope with a moderate focal length for versatility.
Mount TypeThe mount is the part of the telescope that supports and allows it to move. There are two main types: altazimuth and equatorial. Altazimuth mounts are simpler and easier to use, making them ideal for beginners. They move up-down and left-right, similar to a camera tripod. Equatorial mounts are more complex and designed for tracking celestial objects as they move across the sky. If you're just starting out, an altazimuth mount is usually the best choice.
EyepiecesEyepieces are interchangeable lenses that determine the magnification of the telescope. Most telescopes come with one or two eyepieces, but you can purchase additional ones for different viewing experiences. Eyepieces are measured in millimeters; lower numbers provide higher magnification. For beginners, having a range of eyepieces (e.g., 10mm and 25mm) will allow you to explore different magnifications and find what works best for your interests.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to transport and set up the telescope. If you plan to take your telescope to different locations or need to store it when not in use, consider its size and weight. Smaller, lightweight telescopes are easier to handle and set up, making them ideal for beginners who may not have a dedicated space for stargazing. Look for telescopes that are easy to assemble and disassemble.
Optical QualityOptical quality refers to the clarity and sharpness of the images produced by the telescope. High-quality optics will provide better views and more enjoyable stargazing experiences. Look for telescopes with good reviews on their optical performance. For beginners, it's important to find a balance between quality and ease of use. Avoid telescopes with plastic lenses and opt for those with glass optics for better image quality.