We Found the 6 Best Beginner Telescopes for First-Time Stargazers and Young Astronomers

ProsComes with a phone adapterRemote control for hands-free useConsWeak tripod stabilityThe Gskyer Refracting Telescope is an entry-level instrument that has everything a beginner astronomer might need. Featuring a 70mm aperture and a 400mm focal length, it offers clear, bright views of celestial objects and comes with two replaceable eyepieces.The telescope is equipped with an adjustable mount that enables smooth movement along vertical and horizontal axes for easy targeting. It also comes with a handy carrying bag for portability and compact storage, while a phone adapter allows users to capture images through the eyepiece. Additionally, the included remote control provides you with the ability to operate the scope hands-free. Some users reported that the tripod could be more stable, but otherwise, this is a perfect telescope option to start stargazing with.Key SpecsTypeRefractorDimensions24.8 x 4.92 x 8.46 in.Focal length400 mmAperture70 mmProsSimple app guides you where to lookMultiple eye pieces included The paired app of this telescope let’s your phone act as a guide as to where the best star gazing is. Mount your phone on top of the telescope and the arrow appear to literally point you in the right direction for the bets and brightest in the sky.The kit includes two different lenses and a tripod. At just under 9 pounds, the setup is easy to around camp sites and state parks.Key SpecsTypeRefractorDimensions36 x 36 x 52 in.Focal length965 mmAperture80 mmAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsVery lightweight for easy transportationTwo eyepieces includedThe Ecoopro telescope features a 70mm aperture and a 360mm focal length, which is great for taking in closer celestial objects, like the moon, and observing stars on wide viewing areas. (Some even reported using it for daytime birding.)The telescope features an adjustable tripod and two replaceable eyepieces that magnify to 51x and 128x, respectively. Its design is very lightweight for easy portability, and it requires no tools to set up. Keep in mind that the tripod for this telescope is on the shorter side, so bring a camp chair with you for your stargazing or you might end the night with a sore back. Key SpecsTypeRefractorDimensions18.11 x 8.11 x 4.41 in.Focal length360 mmAperture70 mmProsCompound style minimizes blurGreat for astrophotographyConsWeak tripod stabilityThis compound option from Horox combines the benefit of mirrors and lenses to gather and focus light. With its 70mm aperture and an 850mm focal length, it offers high resolution and contrast in both terrestrial and celestial observation. It comes with a tripod and a phone adapter for easy astrophotography, and its optics support a range of magnifications that provide good views for both beginners and more experienced enthusiasts in astronomy and photography. Like the Gskyer telescope above that we named Best Overall, be aware that some users have reported this scope's tripod to be somewhat flimsy and unreliable.Key SpecsTypeCompoundDimensions17 x 14 x 5 in.Focal length850 mmAperture70 mmAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsEquipped with smart autofocus technologyBuilt-in camera for photographyThe ZWO Seestar S50 Smart Digital Telescope is an all-in-one, portable system designed for both beginners and experienced astronomers. It features a 50mm aperture and a focal length of 250mm, providing a compact optical system.The telescope has a smart autofocus mechanism, utilizing software for precise object tracking and alignment. It integrates with mobile devices via Wi-Fi for users to control the telescope remotely through the Seestar app. This model also features a built-in camera for astrophotography, supporting both real-time and long exposure imaging.Because of this telescope's smart capabilities, it does require Wi-Fi, so if you were planning on stargazing on your next remote camping trip, this is not the best option for you.Key SpecsTypeRefractorDimensions5.1 x 5.6 x 10.1 in.Focal length250mmAperture50mmProsAdjustable tripodVery easy to set up and transportConsNo extra features like a phone adapterFor the junior astronomer in your life, this telescope has everything to get started with stargazing. With a 50mm objective lens and 400mm focal length, it provides magnifications ranging from 20x to 66x, with two interchangeable eyepieces.The included adjustable tripod ensures stable viewing, while the lightweight design makes it very easy to carry out to the deck or backyard. Since this is designed for students, it lacks any extra features that might overcomplicate using it, such as a phone adapter or remote control. Key SpecsFocal lengthRefractorAperture17 x 5 x 6 in.Dimensions400 mmType50 mmSarah Connor is a Reviews Editor for Popular Mechanics. She also contributes to Runner’s World, Bicycling, Best Products, and Biography.com. Before joining the Hearst Magazines team, Sarah was a National Content Editor for Hearst Television. She holds a master's in Journalism from Syracuse University and a dual bachelor's in English and Communications from the University of Pittsburgh. When she isn’t writing up a review of the newest gadgets, you can find her heading to the nearest rink for a figure skating session or enjoying the outdoors with her beloved Australian Shepherd, Rosie.