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Refractor Telescopes

Modern refracting telescopes come in two basic styles: achromatic and apochromatic. Refractors often suffer from chromatic aberration, and each design reduces this aberration differently. Refractors can also be mounted on either an equatorial or alt-azimuth mount. This gives you a wide range of options to choose from when deciding what kind of telescope you need.

A great refractor for beginners is the Celestron StarSense Explorer LT 80AZ Refractor Telescope with Smartphone Assist. This innovative telescope has an alt-azimuth mount and features Celestron’s StarSense technology. After downloading the app, you can then dock your smartphone to the telescope and use it to guide you to your selected target. This bundle also includes two eyepieces (25mm and 10mm for magnifications of 36x and 90x), a 2x Barlow, a lunar filter, a red flashlight, and a lens pen for cleaning your optics.

More advanced observers will certainly be impressed by the Explore Scientific FirstLight 102mm Doublet Refractor with EXOS EQ Nano Mount. The light-duty EXOS German equatorial mount features slow motion control for precision tracking of targets. With an aperture of 102mm (4 inches) and a focal length of 1000mm, this refractor is capable of producing outstanding views at magnifications of over 200x, and with a focal ratio of f/9.8, it’s perfect for imaging the planets.

There are also several characteristics you’ll need to consider when purchasing a telescope. The focal length is integral to determining the magnification of any eyepiece you use. It also helps determine your telescope's focal ratio - an important consideration for astrophotography. Aperture is also important as it determines how much light your telescope can capture and how much detail you can see as a result.

All these factors together make each telescope unique, with each providing a different viewing experience. Looking at telescope specs can be daunting, that is why we at High Point are here to help you make the best selection based upon your aspirations and budget. Call us today, toll-free, at (800) 266 9590 to ask our non-commissioned equipment experts for their free advice.