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Telescopes
Not quite sure which telescope to get? or maybe you aren't quite sure how each one works. Below you will find the answer to your questions. A description of how each telescope works and what uses it is best for is included below. [Reflector | Refractor | Schmidt-Cassegrain]
A reflector telescope works by gathering light through the opening of the telescope and reflecting it off of a parabolic mirror at the base of the scope, back up the tube to the secondary mirror. The secondary mirror then directs the light into the eyepiece where it can be focused to your eye. Reflector telescopes, also known as Dobsonians can are best used to view deep space objects because of their large aperture and ability to gather light. The same size aperture in a refractor would cost well over 10 times as much. The Dobsonian telescope also doubles as a good starting scope because you are able to see most objects that you can with any other telescope, and it isn't too costly compared with other designs. [Top]
The refractor works by gathering light through the aperture (usually measured in mm) and refracting it to a single point, much like using a magnifying glass to create a fire. The field stops block light that isn't directly going to the eyepiece to make for a crisp image. Due to their precise optics and body design, the refractors are the most expensive telescope per mm of aperture. Refractors are good for viewing planetary objects because gathering light isn't a big issue. They have an extremely crisp image with is good in giving planet detail. [Top]
A Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope works by gathering light through its primary lens and directing it straight back to the primary mirror. The parabolic mirror then reflects the light back to the secondary mirror which is slightly convex. The light is then directed to the eyepiece. Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes are good for most things. Since they have good optics they are good for planetary observing, and since they have a wide aperture they are good for deep space. Most models are able to move with the sky so you don't have to keep adjusting the scope, a nice feature. The one shown above my Meade is able to automatically go to stars and give you information about what you are looking at. [Top] |
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