

However, since reflectors require collimation and are usually much larger and heavier than refractors, we don't usually recommend them as a beginner deep sky astrophotography telescope. Is A Reflecting Telescope Right For Me?ĭobsonians are a great choice for visual observers, and are without a doubt the best telescope design for those that want to look through an eyepiece to view the night sky. On the other hand, Newtonians and Ritchey-Chretiéns can make great telescopes for astrophotography. These spider vanes, or struts, are what cause the light to diffract and produce spikes on bright stars. You'll notice that in any reflector telescope, whether it be a Newtonian, Ritchey-Chretién, or any other, the secondary mirror is held up by multiple spider vanes. All reflector telescopes will exhibit these multi-pointed stars because of their design. Have you ever wondered why images from the Hubble Space Telescope have four-pointed, cross-shaped stars? The answer is diffraction spikes. Why do Reflecting Telescopes Have Diffraction Spikes? The additional cost of collimation tools such as a good laser collimator is something to take into account when purchasing any reflecting telescope, as they're often not included in the purchase, but are a required tool. Without collimation, a telescope just won't see right. Without tuning, an instrument just won't sound right. A telescope that is out of collimation will be impossible to focus perfectly.Ĭollimation might sound scary, but it's actually quite simple, and can be compared to the need to tune an instrument before you play it.

Reflectors usually need to be collimated, which is the process of precisely aligning the mirrors in the telescope using simple tools. They'll give you close up views of some of the dimmest, but most interesting objects in the night sky.ĭo Reflecting Telescopes Require Maintenance?įor as affordable as they are, nearly all reflectors will require more maintenance than other telescopes like refractors. We recommend you purchase the largest aperture reflecting telescope that fits your budget, as the views from these large telescopes are hard to beat.

Because it costs less to manufacture a mirror than a lens, reflector telescopes can be made with large objective mirrors while still being affordable to own. The more light that a telescope gathers, the brighter the magnified view will be. Telescopes work by magnifying light to enlarge views of the night sky. Why is a Large Aperture, or Objective Important? Other common reflector designs include the Ritchey-Chretién, which many famous telescopes like the Hubble Space Telescope utilize for its premium optical performance. If you've ever attended a star party, you'll notice that most visual observers are using Dobsonians for this reason. Newtonians and Dobsonians in particular can be had at a very affordable price for a large aperture, making them an excellent choice for visual observers. This is because it is less expensive to produce a large aperture reflector telescope compared to a refractor. Compared to refractor telescopes, reflectors are usually significantly larger telescopes. Reflecting telescopes use mirrors to focus light and magnify an image. EVscope 2 & eVscope 2 Backpack Bundle Sale
