Newtonian telescopes – Buying guide & Comparison
If you are searching for the best Newtonian telescope money can get you but you lack the time to read a lot of specialized reviews on the topic, we’ve got you covered. After doing the research on your behalf by analyzing the market and by taking into account aspects such as the products’ quality and price to value ratio, we have concluded that the Orion 10016 StarBlast 6 Astro Reflector is the model that you should buy. This product stands out thanks to the fact that it is versatile and easy to use by the novice and the experienced alike. More to this point, the unit has an optimal 6’ aperture and a compact tabletop design. If the Orion 10016 StarBlast 6 Astro Reflector is out of stock, please consider the Orion 09007 SpaceProbe 130ST Equatorial Reflector as it is a reliable second option.
Comparison table
Our Top Choice
This model is the go-to one if you want a reliable alternative that also comes with many features. The 6 inches aperture reflector ensures that you will be able to see many cosmic objects in great detail, while the wide field of view makes finding and tracking the subjects easier. The unit also comes with a reflector base that is easy to set up.
This telescope offers great viewings of the moon and planets, but if you want to go in greater depth, you might need to purchase additional optics with a higher magnification power to be able to do this.
All in all, this model is an excellent choice if you want to enjoy high-quality viewings and an overall great experience as you look at the stars and planets.
2nd Best
This model features a 5.1-inch aperture that allows it to collect the necessary light in order to render clear and bright images. Moreover, the rather short optical tube that measures 24 inches makes it lightweight and easy to transport. The overall weight is of 27 pounds, and the package also includes an adjustable aluminum tripod.
According to reviews, the instructions are not very helpful when it comes setting the telescope up, so you might need to do some online research in order to be able to use it at its full capacity right away.
The lightweight construction and the numerous features this model comes with make it ideal for any user who wants to enjoy high-quality viewings anywhere.
Also To Consider
If you are looking for a powerful, small-sized, and affordable model, the Mini 82 203001 is the one for you. The generous 3.2-inch aperture ensures high-quality and clear images, while the 3.8 pounds of overall weight means that it’s also highly portable. The two eyepieces included ensure both high and low magnifications.
For tracking objects, with this model, you’ll need to acquire some handling skills, so if you are a beginner this might seem rather difficult. However, it’s just a matter of getting used to utilizing the device.
This portable model includes many useful features and, on top of this, it also comes with a versatile 360-degree swivel mount, so do keep it in mind.
Discovering the best Newtonian reflector money can buy is not that easy of a task. What is more, given the fact that the market is filled with countless similar models, knowing what unit to select is quite tricky. Therefore, we have composed a list of critical features and aspects that you should have in mind before placing any orders.
What is a Newtonian telescope?
As you probably might already know, the Newtonian model is a reflector telescope constructed using two mirrors, a concave one, and a flat one. As a reflector telescope, the Newtonian works wonderfully when it comes to reflecting objects on earth. Moreover, these types of units usually have sealed tubes that protect the lenses, reason why you don’t have to do a lot of maintenance if you end up purchasing one.
By comparing it to the refractor and the compound models also currently available, one can easily note that the Newtonian telescopes are more affordable and are better suited to be used by the inexperienced hobbyists.
Size
If you want to end up with the best telescope, our advice to you is that you do not purchase a model until you’ve checked its size. Even more so, it is recommendable that you only settle for a model that can fit in the space that you have available so that you can use it to the best of its possibilities.
Besides, if you intend to take the telescope with you wherever you go on a stargazing trip, we suggest that you buy a portable unit that is lightweight and that can easily fit in a backpack. In order to make sure that the model you like best is the one for you, we advise that you take the time and do some research of your own by reading the online reviews and user feedback that the product has received.
Aperture
As all Newtonian telescope reviews sections are prone to point out, the aperture of the device is equally important. In fact, most specialists consider that the most important component of a telescope is its aperture.
From this perspective, keep in mind that a good Newtonian telescope has an aperture of at least 6’. By settling for a model of this type, you’ll be able to see in great detail objects such as the moon, nebulas as well as star clusters.
Tips
Before ordering the first telescope you lay your eyes on from the myriad of models up for sale, our suggestion is that you actually do some research and only purchase a model after you are well aware of its abilities and drawbacks. This way you’ll know what to expect from the device.
Although once the order arrives, you’ll most likely want to test the telescope the following night, it is advisable that you wait until a more appropriate night arrives when the light pollution is not present. Ergo, you’ll be able to see a lot of interesting, beautiful phenomena that are otherwise difficult to spot.
Additionally, before you use the device be sure to do your homework. In other words, do not use the device before you’ve read the instruction manual and you know how to operate it. If you are not good at locating different stars and planets, use the help offered by the different apps that are available online.
5 Best Newtonian Telescopes (Reviews) in 2024
Because we are well aware of the fact that finding the right telescope is a difficult job, we have decided to lend you a helping hand by putting together a list of top-notch models that are currently available. So, read ahead and select the product you consider that best fits your needs and budget.
Contents
1. Orion 10016 StarBlast 6 Astro Reflector Telescope
With overall positive reviews and a lot of satisfied previous buyers, the Orion 10016 StarBlast 6 Astro Reflector is the go-to product if you want a reliable, feature-packed device. Although a bit pricier than other alternatives, this model has a beautiful, clean-cut design that makes it easy to use.
What is more, the device comes outfitted with a 6″ aperture reflector that guarantees that you’ll be able to see the planets and other sky objects in great detail. Because it has a wide field of view, the manufacturer argues that this telescope makes it easy to track and find objects.
Also, the unit comes shipped with a sturdy StarBlast 6 reflector base that, given the fact that it arrives assembled, does not require a lot of effort to be set up.
As a plus, this model includes two 25mm and 10mm Sirius Plossl 1.25″ telescope eyepieces, a very practical EZ Finder II aiming device, an eyepiece rack as well as a Starry Night software.
Pros
The base of the model comes pre-assembled so that the buyer can utilize it just out of the box. Therefore, you won’t have to waste extra time putting it together.
Because of its design and simple controls, this device is preferred by both seasoned users and beginners.
This item has a compact design, and it is easy to carry and to store it when you are done using it for the day.
Plus, this model includes 25mm and 10mm 1.25″ telescope eyepieces and an effortless-to-use EZ Finder II that can help you identify celestial bodies instantly.
Cons
There have been users that claimed that they had received models that lacked certain pieces. Because of this, they could not use the device.
One buyer claimed that the tabletop construction of the telescope makes it difficult to use by adults. Not many other owners agreed with her.
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2. Orion 09007 SpaceProbe 130ST Equatorial Reflector Telescope
A very similar model is the Orion 09007 SpaceProbe 130ST Equatorial Reflector. A bit more affordable than the previous model, this unit has a 5.1-inch aperture, reason why it is able to gather enough light to depict crystal clear images.
Additionally, the fact that this telescope comes fitted with a rather short 24-inch long optical tube makes the product easy to transport and lightweight (it only weighs 27 lbs.). Hence, if you intend to buy a model that is portable and that can be easily carried in a backpack, check out this model.
When shipped, this model includes an adjustable-height aluminum tripod that has an accessory tray where you can keep the eyepieces as well as other accessories you might need while looking at the sky.
Furthermore, the model also comes provided with a 6×30 finder scope that can help the beginners align the device and find certain planets, star clusters, etc.
Pros
This 5.1-inch aperture reflector can gather a considerable amount of light and, as a result, it can supply you with bright views of the planets and star clusters.
Because of its short 24-inch optical tube, this model is considered portable and easy to store in between uses.
This is one of those telescopes that have a wide field of view. As a result, it can be used for stargazing.
According to users, this choice is sturdy and very durable when compared to other similar models also available.
Cons
A handful of users complained that they received models that had missing pieces. Also, they argued that this item is difficult to put together. Still, they were happy with the option’s overall performance.
One drawback that many noted is that this product comes supplied with terrible instructions that are not at all helpful. However, not all agreed with this statement.
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3. Meade Instruments LightBridge Mini 82 Tabletop Telescope
If you are interested in a small-sized, powerful, yet affordable model, the Meade Instruments LightBridge Mini 82, 203001 is the model you’ve been searching for. This Newtonian reflector comes outfitted with a generous 82mm (3.2-Inch) aperture that makes it ideal for both beginners and seasoned astronomy enthusiasts.
Also, this model is quite lightweight as it only weighs 3.8 lbs., and is very compact, a reason why, if you settle for it you can carry it around whenever you decide to watch the sky from a different location.
Technically speaking, this unit comes with both 26mm (12x) and 9mm (33x) eyepieces that can be used to attain both low and high magnification.
Additionally, you should know that this product features a 2x Barlow lens that can double the magnifying power of the device up to two times. Lastly, this model has a versatile 360-Degree swivel mount.
Pros
The model has a generous aperture that can help you get perfect views of the moon and other celestial bodies.
This device is considered the go-to unit for those that are interested in a product that is light in weight. This is true because this telescope only weighs 3.8 lbs.
Because it has a 300mm focal length, this option is easy to carry around. The choice is also small in size. Thus, storing it won’t be a problem.
With a 360-degree swivel mount, this unit can supply you with the necessary mobility in order to easily view your surroundings.
Cons
Although it has received mostly positive reviews, some argued that this telescope is not very powerful as it has a low magnification ratio.
It has been pointed out that this item is not particularly durable because it was made from cheap materials. Still, most owners are happy with its quality.
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4. Celestron 31042 AstroMaster 114EQ Reflector Telescope
If you want to settle for a cool looking, practical model, the Celestron 31042 AstroMaster 114 EQ might be of interest to you. With a great price to value ratio, this model is appropriate for both terrestrial and celestial viewing.
Furthermore, this telescope is said to be capable of offering more than three times the light gathering power of 60mm beginner scopes. As a plus, the two eyepieces that the product includes (20mm and 10mm) can magnify a given image up to 100 times.
Consequently, you’ll get a good view of whatever object you set your mind to explore. In fact, according to the manufacturer, the 10mm eyepiece can be used to clearly focus in on Saturn’s rings and is apt to pick up unexpected details.
Likewise, when placed on the tripod, the device is quite sturdy. In case of any type of unsteadiness, a simple adjustment can solve the problem.
Pros
According to the seller, this item includes a permanently mounted StarPointer finderscope that you will surely appreciate if you are finding it difficult to locate celestial bodies.
This model is effortless to put together as its owner does not have to use tools while doing so.
Because it includes all coated glass optics, this model can supply one with clear and crisp images of one’s surroundings.
The item comes supplied with a lightweight tripod that you can take with you when on the go!
Cons
It has been pointed out that the tripod provided by the seller is made of light steel tube. Because of this, it is not particularly stable with all the weight put on top of it.
The mount of the model is not very reliable as the RA adjustment is only relatively smooth. For best results, you should add some silicone grease as doing so might help.
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5. Celestron 31051 AstroMaster 130EQ Reflector Telescope Motor Drive
Constructed using the highest quality materials, the Celestron 31051 AstroMaster 130EQ MD Telescope is another model that is worth your consideration. Similarly to the previous model made by the same manufacturer, this is also a product that can be used for both terrestrial and celestial viewing.
Additionally, the unit is said to be able to produce clear and bright images of the moon and planets, reason why the novice in the field of telescopes might find it appropriate.
What is more, all possible buyers should know that this unit has a mounted starpointer that can be utilized by all those that find it difficult to manually point the device on a certain objective.
Also, differently from similar models, this unit has an orientation view that is normal, and not upside down. As some experienced buyer has pointed out, this model should be purchased by beginners. With the additional lens kit and this telescope, one could easily learn how to use a device of this type.
Pros
Because of the erect image optics that the model supplies its users, this item is ideal for terrestrial and astronomical use.
The choice comes provided with a rugged and pre-assembled tripod that has sturdy 1.25″ steel tube legs. The tripod can be seen as a rigid and stable platform for the telescope.
Thanks to the quick release dovetail attachment that the model includes, assembling this device is not at all complicated.
The model includes two eyepieces and an image corrector that most beginners are likely to find practical.
Cons
As one user pointed out, the adjustment knobs that this device features are poorly screwed, and they cannot supply the user with the necessary power to adjust the image being viewed.
When compared to other models, this telescope is rather heavy. Hence, it is not recommended for those that enjoy traveling. Still, many are content with it as it is.
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