What kind of telescopes should I buy as a beginner?

Telescopes can provide a lot of fun and learning. But many people rush out and buy a disappointingly cheap department store scope that doesn't do justice to the cosmos. Others spend too much on a complex setup they don't need. read more

And quality binoculars can far outrank a poor quality small telescope and is an instrument that should last you a lifetime. Beginners usually are pleasantly surprised the first time they sweep the night sky with binoculars and advanced amateurs and professionals alike regard binoculars as standard viewing equipment. read more

This is an exciting time to become an amateur astronomer. Never have novice stargazers been presented with such a vast array of telescopes and accessories to pursue their hobby. Naturally, this brings the burden of choice: the bewildering variety makes it hard for an uninformed consumer to make the right decision on what type of telescope to buy. read more

The quality of the lenses is also very important. Before you buy, ask to have a look through it in daylight at a distant object. When it’s in focus, a telescope with quality lenses should show clear crisp edges to objects in its field of view. read more