Astronomy is an all-ages hobby, everyone is welcome to enjoy the wonders of the universe. Our team of Gear Experts has taken the time to compile a list of some of the best telescopes for adults. Out of the hundreds of telescopes from our carefully curated selection of gear, these are the best telescopes for adults to view the wonders of the cosmos - all of which can access our solar system and deep sky objects, and can be upgraded with accessories!
Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ -
This 130mm Newtonian is ideal for beginner astronomers. The StarSense is the first telescope series that allows you to use your smartphone to analyze the night sky and easily locate your targets in minutes using the telescope’s “push-to” system. You’ll be able to view hundreds of objects, including several planets, galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters! The accessories included with this telescope will make your stargazing experience even more enjoyable. You’ll be ready to go right out of the box with the StarSense smartphone dock, 25mm eyepiece, 10mm eyepiece, red dot finder, and tripod accessory tray. Check out our experience using the Celestron StarSense Explorer in the video below:
Celestron NexStar 8SE -
For budding astronomers looking to take their hobby to the next level - look no further than the Celestron NexStar 8SE. The 8" of aperture will show you the universe in incredible detail. Galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, comets, planets, asteroids, double stars, and more will be visible right from your backyard. Our NexStar 8SE bundle comes with everything you need to enjoy views of the universe: five eyepieces, a 2x Barlow Lens, six color filters, an aluminum eyepiece and filter carry case, a portable power supply, and an AC adapter. Check out our video below to learn how easy it is to set up the Celestron NexStar 8SE:
Apertura AD10 Dobsonian -
With this fully manual telescope, you're in control! The Apertura AD10 is great for adults who want to learn the night sky and feel a sense of accomplishment all with a large 10" light bucket! With large optics on a precision Dobsonian base, you'll be able to see everything the night sky has to offer. Galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, and planets galore. See for yourself why this is one of our most popular telescopes!
Celestron NexStar Evolution 8 -
Looking to step things up a bit? The Celestron NexStar Evolution 8 does just that. This scope comes with the same optics and aperture as the NexStar 8SE mentioned above, but everything else has been improved. Download the Celestron app and use the planetarium interface to discover objects that are currently visible based on your time and location. You can leave your hand control behind and locate all the best celestial objects with a tap of your smartphone or tablet. You can even enjoy up to 10 hours of stargazing with the internal lithium battery, ensuring that your nights under the stars aren’t cut short by power issues! The upgraded technology and excellent build quality of this telescope are sure to impress.
Vaonis Vespera -
The future of telescopes is here. Our top telescope for adults is the fully automated Vaonis Vespera Smart Telescope. Astrophotography doesn’t get any easier than this. You and your family can now take gorgeous photos of the night sky without the hassle of assembling an entire astrophotography rig. This ultra-portable, high-tech smart telescope will show you more of the night sky than any other scope on the list. Set up in minutes and use the dedicated app to have crisp photos of the night sky delivered right to your smartphone!
Note: Vaonis has discontinued the Vespera. We are currently carrying the Vaonis Vespera II Smart Telescope, an upgraded version of the original Vespera.
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Honorable Mention - Entry Astrophotography Kit
Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer GTi Mount -
Apertura Premium Carbon Fiber Tripod -
Apertura Portable Telescope Power Supply -
With these three products, you can simply add a DSLR and camera lens and start imaging the night sky! The Milky Way, galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters are all accessible with your current camera. Simply attach your DSLR and Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer GTi Mount to the Apertura Premium Carbon Fiber Tripod, power everything up with the Apertura Portable Telescope Power Supply, and you’re ready to go! Fully track the night sky and control the GTi Mount with your smartphone. If you’re looking to learn astrophotography from the ground up, this is the perfect place to start.
Questions? Contact Us!
Have any questions about any of these telescopes? Interested in more recommendations? We’re here to help! Our experts are on standby to assist you in finding the telescope of your dreams without breaking the bank. Reach out by completing our contact form today.
