7 Best Telescope for Viewing Planets and Galaxies

Seeing the luxuriant view of the night sky and discovering the mysterious chapter of daytime is truly a bewitchment affair. With that said, the people who want to explore those ravishing objects in the sky need to look for a telescope.

But what if you have this luxurious passion but are on a tight budget? You know finding the best telescope for viewing planets and galaxies under $2000 is not so light assignment.

Moreover, there is numerous property remaining in a single telescope that determines the device’s best or worst outcome. So, how do you manage to find all of those true factors, without knowing the actual information about the telescope? Is not it tough?

However, don’t worry; we are here to reduce your grievous as we have found a few notable telescopes for your motive. Get down; in below we have listed those telescopes. Just take a look.

Our Pick 7 Best Telescope for Viewing Planets and Galaxies

We not only pick these telescopes that are best for viewing planets and galaxies rather we have added some core information about these products. And of course, that will assist you to find out the variation between good and bad ones.

We have compiled this particular list that comes under $2000. But if you want something budget-friendly or inexpensive, then surely can check out our other under $500 or less than $200 telescope collections.

Quick Comparison Table

Product Name Size Weight Aperture Focal Length
Celestron Nexstar 8 SE
  • 42x23.7x13 Inches
  • 16 Pounds
  • 203.2mm (8”)
  • 2032mm
CELESTRON CPC 1100
  • 36 x 19 x 37 inches
  • 83 pounds
  • 280mm (11”)
  • 2800mm (110”)
Sky-watcher ProEd
  • 44x20x14 Inches
  • 39.4 Pounds
  • 120mm (4.7”)
  • 900mm
Skywatcher 150 Maksutov-Cassegrain
  • 25 x 10 x 10 inches
  • 14 pounds
  • 150mm
  • 1800mm
Orion 9024 AstroView
  • 38x17x11.5 Inches
  • 31.9 Pounds
  • 90mm (3.5”)
  • 910mm
Celestron SkyProdigy 130
  • 39x10x17 Inches
  • 18 Pounds
  • 130mm (5.12”)
  • 650mm
Orion 10019 SkyQuest XT10i
  • 27.3x25.5x5.4 Inches
  • 31.4 Pounds
  • 254mm (10”)
  • 1200mm

Celestron NexStar 8SE Telescope

 

Celestron is the name of the leading brand when coming to telescope craftsmanship. Eventually, the model we have taken known as Celestron Nexstar 8 SE  and can dexterously be accepted as the best telescope for viewing planets and galaxies.

With a lot of extraordinary quality, the telescope takes 1st place on our list, be sure. But before meeting the full statement take your eye on the highlighted feature.

Key Feature at a Glance

  • Unique Sky Align mechanism
  • Comes with 40,000+ database property
  • Quick-release fork-arm pattern
  • Fully automated and go to mount

Specifications

  • Aperture: 203.2 mm (8”)
  • Focal Length: 2032 mm (80”)
  • Focal ratio: f/10
  • Magnification: 81x
  • Weight: 10.88 Kilograms
  • Optical Design: Schmidt-Cassegrain
  • Mount: Altazimuth Mount

The design is the main thing that first appears in front of you, no matter what you are looking to buy. Meantime, our selected telescope arrives in an orange tube design that is full of computerized mechanisms. Therefore the stainless steel tripod structure along with its compact and portable layout not only gives the device an excellent look but makes it long-lasting.

Although design comes first still the main feature of every telescope is its aperture size and capacity. In case, the particular model bears fantastic 8 inches (203.2mm) aperture that has a focal length power 2032mm.

This formation of aperture allows the device to gather the necessary light and consequently provide a luminous and shiny image. Moreover, the 40,000 databases give a user permission to select their object automatically and effortlessly.

In addition, the lowest29x to highest480x magnifying efficiency allows a user to see any object closely. However, a user can connect a DSLR to their telescope if they want to click still pictures.

Even more, the company includes red dot finder scope, 25mm Plossl eyepiece, and visual back that make the device all in one.


Pros

  • Automatically track object
  • Portability
  • Accessories included
  • Steel tripod construction
  • Very easy to operate


Cons

  • Requires powerful battery support
  • Gives only one extra eyepiece


Bottom Line

Celestron Nexstar 8SE Telescope is doubtlessly the best telescope for planets and the moon. We got only one issue the telescope battery life is short and may need extra support. But overall, this telescope offers such amazing features that make it worthy of consideration.

Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT

 

This amazing telescope comes with a Celestron Starbright XLT optical coating. It is the best telescope for viewing planets and galaxies. The length of the optical tube is 24 inches and the diameter is 12.3 inches.

Besides, the Starbright XLT telescope contains the most power to gather light. The limiting magnitude of this planetary power performer is nearly 15. Also, the Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT GPS contains a huge database of NGC. Thus, it is the best telescope for deep-space viewing.

Moreover, the CPC can sustain the alignment of the star for a long period without requiring realignment. So, the Starbright XLT telescope is the ideal telescope for the permanent facility of observation. Also, the best telescope for viewing planets and galaxies for beginners.

Also, this GPS telescope can download the time and date automatically from the orbiting satellite. Even, it can pinpoint the exact location. So, you don’t need to bother about inserting the time, date, latitude, longitude, and location manually.

Again, this best professional telescope comes with Celestron’s NexStar technology. And, with the help of this technology, you can easily determine the position of the planet, star, as well as celestial object. Actually, it is a good telescope to see planets. So, you can buy this one to observe the planet properly.

Key Feature at a Glance

  • Includes Premium StarBright XLT optical coating
  • Contains a mount as well as a tripod
  • Comes with an ergonomic design
  • Features an amazing GPS technology

Specifications

  • Aperture: 280mm (11”)
  • Focal Length: 2800mm (110”)
  • Focal ratio: f/10
  • Magnification: 70x
  • Weight: 83 Pounds
  • Optical Design: Schmidt-Cassegrain
  • Mount: Altazimuth Mount


Pros

  • Heavy-duty tripod
  • Facile to move and lift the telescope
  • Accurately finds object
  • Determines time, date, and location automatically
  • Trouble-free installation and use



Cons

  • Seems difficult to rectify


Bottom Line

.Celestron CPC 1100 is the professional telescope to see planets. The CPC database contains more than 40,000 celestial objects and the nebula is one of them. For simple and quick alignment, easy use and set-up, GPS, enhanced computerization, and optical quality, it is the best buy for the budget

Sky-Watcher ProED 120mm Doublet APO Refractor Telescope

 

The next telescope is from the Skywatcher brand. It is not extremely familiar like Celestron or Orion but not less than any other high-performance telescope. The model we take is recognized as sky-watcher ProEd and is the most expensive telescope on our list. Have a look at why it is the best telescope for viewing planets.

Key Feature at a Glance

  • Latest Apochromatic (APO) refractor telescope
  • Build-in and dual-speed focuser
  • Vixen-style dovetail mount
  • Maximum magnification facilities

Specifications

  • Aperture: 120mm
  • Focal Length: 900mm
  • Focal ratio: f/7.5
  • Magnification: 236x
  • Weight: 13.9 Pounds
  • Optical Design: APO Doublet

What made the telescope so classy and expensive is its truly professional mechanism. Unlike many other telescopes, it is made of cast aluminum that is coated with glossy white and black color. Since basically designed for professional astronomers but it can be used by every sort of sky viewer.

Stepped out of the viewing quality, it gives high competition with other telescopes on the list. As it is not a mirror telescope but rather a refractor (lens), it has 4.72 inches (120mm) aperture along with 900mm focal length capacity.

But can you imagine how this refractor aperture provides an excellent picture of your every desired object? Well, the lens can gather a huge amount of light and show you an incredible image.

Furthermore, ED technology (extra-low dispersion) double lens gives the best color correction. Plus the lowest 17x to highest 283x magnification option again makes it super appealing. Therefore the user can get two excessive eyepieces (5mm and 20mm).

The eyepiece magnifying capacity is 45x and 180x. Do you expect any more things from a telescope? Hope no!


Pros

  • Refractor(lens) aperture
  • Great for the professional astronomer
  • Exclusive ED technology
  • Include two eyepiece
  • Can be observed in both day and night sky



Cons

  • Tripod not included ( have to buy separately)
  • Bit expensive


Bottom Line

Every device has some advantages and disadvantages and it is obvious. The advantage of the telescope is it provides a super-quality image as it bears a refractor aperture. And the disadvantage is it expensive. But still, now, the price is worth it as the telescope offers a professional experience.

SkyWatcher 150 Maksutov-Cassegrain

 

Sky-Watcher Skymax Maksutov-Cassegrain is one of the best telescopes for viewing planets and galaxies. The tubes offer matched primary as well as secondary mirrors. And, the mirrors contain a corrector plate which is coated expertly.

Besides, the borosilicate primary mirror along with the quartz overcoat and the aluminum coating produces a reflectivity rating of 94 percent. As a result, excellent light transmission is observed.

Also, you can use the 150mm Maksutov-Cassegrain as the Newtonians as well as Schmidt-Cassegrains. And, with its help of it, astronomers experience a package of long focal lengths, high contrast, as well as a huge visual aperture.

Moreover, the corrector plate included with the Maksutov-Cassegrain helps to eliminate spherical aberration. It also offers superior contrast as well as refractor-like views. Thus, it has been the best telescope to look at planets.

Furthermore, the telescope delivers a number of accessories. For example- a 28mm eyepiece of 2 inches, a finderscope, as well as 2 inches star diagonal of 90 degrees. So, it is the best telescope to buy to see planets.

Key Feature at a Glance

  • Comes with a borosilicate primary mirror
  • Includes MHTC or Metallic High Transmission Coating
  • Features industry-standard Vixen-style dovetail plate
  • Offers meniscus-shaped corrector plate

Specifications

  • Aperture: 150mm
  • Focal Length: 1800mm
  • Focal ratio: f/12
  • Magnification: 295x
  • Weight: 14 Pounds
  • Optical Design: Maksutov-Cassegrain
  • Mount: Alt-alt-mount


Pros

  • Superior contrast as well as tack-sharp images
  • Increases overall magnification
  • Eliminates all the spherical aberration
  • Prevents stray light
  • Produces 94 percent reflectivity



Cons

  • Excellent optics but sloppy manufacture


Bottom Line

Sky-Watcher Skymax 150mm Maksutov-Cassegrain is the perfect combination of the aperture as well as lightweight portability. It’s specially designed for high contrast and sharp views as well as planetary observation. Even, it is the best beginner telescope to see planets and galaxies.

Orion 9024 AstroView 90mm Equatorial Refractor Telescope

 

We are again back with another attractive telescope from the ORION brand. This is one reasonable telescope on the list that comes under budget but offers invaluable functionality. As we’ve already told you much about the company’s popularity so now straightly go for narration.

Key Feature at a Glance

  • Refractor jaw-dropping telescope
  • Aluminum tripod layout
  • Offers both celestial and terrestrial viewing
  • Equatorial mount for adjustment propensity

Specifications

  • Aperture: 90mm (3.5″)
  • Focal Length: 910mm
  • Magnification: 182x
  • Weight: 31.9 pounds
  • Optical Design:
  • Mount: Equatorial Mount

Orion 9024 astroview 90mm telescope is among the model which offers super quality with less price tag. It is designed for all levels of astronomers whether you are a beginner or a professional.

However, the part that makes this telescope different from others is an equatorial mount that enables its user to track their option in a slow-motion manual push.

Besides, the spectacle is another feature that again makes the telescope tempting. Can you figure out with such low price the brand offers your refractor 3.5 Inches (90mm) aperture setting that comes with 910mm focal length?

Yes, it does and this setting allows you to see a fantastic object in the sky whether on night or day. As in every situation, it will provide a clear and bright image

In fact, the highest to lowest magnifying (182x to 13x) assist you to track your object close to you. Even if included software, two distinctive eyepieces (25mm and 10mm), and 6x30finder scope is really vast accessory with such a price tag.


Pros

  • Adjustable mount
  • Inexpensive
  • Strong and high-quality construction
  • Included rack and pinion focuser
  • Aperture in the lens, not mirror



Cons

  • At focusing time, the mount may get bit quaver
  • Needs practices for habituating


Bottom Line

In a few words, Orion 9024 astroview 90mm is such an excellent choice for all levels of sky viewers. The low price included accessories and an adjustable mount- all make it satisfying. Only one issue, at one point the adjustment mounts help but in another sense it something makes focuses disturbing. But overall, another feature of the telescope is more than just awesome.

Celestron SkyProdigy 130 26×345 Telescope

 

We can’t stop to take another Celestron telescope because it well deserves the title of the best telescope eyepiece for viewing planets. By the way, the model we are going to present is also known as Celestron Skyprodigy 130 which carries many impressive aspects.

Key Feature at a Glance

  • Fully computerized telescope
  • Comes with an adjustable mount
  • Comes with a built-in stainless steel tripod
  • Convey 10,000 object database

Specifications

  • Aperture: 130 mm (5.12”)
  • Focal Length: 650 mm (26”)
  • Focal ratio: f/5
  • Magnification: 26x, 72x
  • Weight: 18 Pounds
  • Optical Design: Newtonian Reflector
  • Mount: Altazimuth Mount

At the point of the design, the telescope is made for people who don’t want to waste their time in manual settings but rather than looking for something automated.

Consequently, the particular model is a fully computerized device that helps you to track your object for less than 3 minutes. Likewise, the adjustable mount assists you to up and down the focus part according to your craving.

In terms of viewing quality, the telescope is also good. It has 5.7 inches (130mm) reflector aperture that is packed with 26 inches (600mm) focal length. However, the telescope bestows the excellent resolution of an image by collecting enough light through the mirror.

In fact, the smarter align technology automatically tracks your object like Jupiter, the moon, galaxies, and so on.

Even more, the company includes astronomy software where they already add 10,000 databases, 75 enhanced an image, and print-like maps.  On the other hand, the additional two eyepieces (9mm and 25mm) and over 30-hour battery backup make it the best telescope for viewing planets and galaxies.


Pros

  • Great battery support
  • Automate tracking option
  • Include sky maps and software
  • Form arm mount
  • Comes with the finder scope



Cons

  • Not for professional use
  • Some people complained that the viewing field is much narrow


Bottom Line

We got not much variation between our two included Celestron models. Celestron Nexstar 8 is a bit pricey whereas Celestron Skyprodigy 130 is less in that. But one thing about the selected telescope is that it offers 30 hours of battery support while the previous one is lack it. Besides, the Celestron Nexstar 8 offers 40,000 databases, but this one offers 10,000. Actually, both are good and it depends on you which one meets your budget.

Orion 10019 SkyQuest XT10i IntelliScope Dobsonian Telescope

 

The second telescope of our list is from another outstanding brand namely ORION which comes into mind after Celestron’s reputation. They produce many amazing telescopes for every level of customer.

Similarly, the selected telescope is one of their finest creation that is the best telescope to see planets clearly. Let’s start to scan with the key feature.

Key Feature at a Glance

  • Computerized wooden Dobsonian telescope
  • Included 14,000 celestial object
  • Features 2 inches Crayford focuser
  • Plus IntelliScope technology for tracking object

Specifications

  • Aperture: 254mm
  • Focal Length: 1200mm
  • Focal ratio: f/4.7
  • Magnification: 180x
  • Weight: 31.3 pounds
  • Optical Design:
  • Mount: Altazimuth Mount

We take the model that is also known as Orion 10019 from the SkyQuest series is designed with the Dobsonian framework. That’s why the structure will exactly fit with any flat surface including your table or window accommodation. Likewise, the shiny gray color furnish gives it a unique outlook which somehow makes it different than others.

Apart from design, the telescope has a large 10 inches (254mm) aperture reflector. That means it consumes a massive amount of light that provides a vivid and pleasant view of galaxies, star clusters, nebular, and many other objects in the sky.

Once more, the 14,000 celestial objects with IntelliScope Object Locator technology make easy the searching option.

Moreover, you can magnify your object up to 500x in order to see the close view. Besides, the company included two eyepieces (10 mm and 25mm), starry night software, and a collimation cap for extra convenience.  Again the battery is too strong which makes it live for almost 30 to 50 hours.


Pros

  • Computerized functionality makes it easy to use
  • Incredible battery backing
  • Large aperture size
  • Lightweight and ideal to carry
  • Offers two eyepiece



Cons

  • The aperture mirror can easily blemish
  • There is no focal length existence

Bottom Line

This particular model is a great choice for those who are looking for a large aperture along with maximum battery support. Only one thing, the telescope lacks a focal length facility. But it offers two eyepieces, a dust cap, and software that are much more valuable compared with other focal length deficiencies.

Things to consider before buying a Telescope for viewing planets and galaxies

In terms of choosing every product, no matter whether it is telescopes or other devices, there is always some considerable fact that remains. If you are able to find out these factors properly, then you will surely be able to get your perfect one. Here we have added four factors that, in our point of view, are the most essential in the case of final selection. Let’s see.

Aperture Length

When you want to see galaxies and planets from a long distance, with a telescope, then you undoubtedly need something solid, right? However, in a telescope, an aperture is the main part that determines how much and how clear you will see your object.

If the aperture length is big, then it will provide a clear and bright image than a small aperture length. So before purchasing a telescope checking the aperture length is a foremost important considerable factor.

Refractor or Reflector

Got confused as both words look the same. Well, although the word looks similar, there are bountiful distinctive between them. A refractor is a lens and a reflector is a mirror and both are used as the main part of every single telescope.

While some companies offer a mirror telescope, others may offer a lens telescope. Even if some companies offer a combination of lens and mirror. So before the layout for shopping, find out which one you need in your telescope.

Size and Weight of the Telescope

Another considerable factor when choosing a telescope is size and weight. You should check the size and weight detail because it helps you to identify what place in your home you can set it.

Moreover, the size and weight give an idea of whether the telescope offers you portability or not. So in our opinion, considering the size and weight of information is meaningful.

Magnification Retention

Magnification retention is a part of the telescope that able a user to turn any object near the eye. In other words, it allows a user to see the close and at the same time a distant view of every single object. So if you want this amazing feature in your telescope, then you surely should check out your telescope magnification retention.

Can You See Galaxies With a Home Telescope?

Well, the answer is yes, but it still depends on some factors you must consider to be able to see the galaxy with a home telescope. And of course, atmospheric conditions have quite an impact when it comes to galaxy observation.

Galaxies are part of deep-sky objects (DSO) that are beyond our solar system. They are so far away that it takes quite a good amount of patience to observe them with a home telescope. But don’t be frustrated yet.

You need to have a home telescope with 2 main features- aperture and optical quality. Your telescope should have an aperture of 8 inches or more so that you can see the galaxies more clearly other than just a hint.

Another thing that matters is the sky’s darkness. You will get a nicer and more realistic view if your field of vision is not affected by unnecessary lights. So, opt for a dark sky, and by dark, it means dark enough to see the Milky Way structured and fully clear.

Try your best to avoid light-polluted areas. In some cases, light pollution filters can aid you to some extent. It’s not like it is impossible to see galaxies with light pollution, it just doesn’t provide a detailed view of the galaxies.

Having a home telescope with better magnification ability can also be a plus point. But just note that magnification ability on its own can’t give you much in exchange for your time behind the eyepiece.

So, the bottom line is, you can, of course, observe galaxies with your home telescope by ensuring the necessary factors and being patient.

How Big of a Telescope do you Need to See Galaxies?

Size does matter for galaxy viewing. Aperture size, magnifying capability, and the total body weight of the telescope everything play an important role while deciding the right telescope to go for.

The aperture size of a telescope decides how much light it can gather while viewing any object. If you upgrade the aperture size to the next level, the light-gathering capability increases twice the amount before. This means you can see galaxies two times better with a telescope with 6 inches aperture length compared to one with an aperture of 4 inches.

For beginners, 4-6 inches scopes are best to go. But the suggestion will be to go for 6 inch one, as 4 inches can be quite insufficient as you progress with time.

Especially for galaxy and other deep sky objects viewing, opt for 8-10 inches. 4-6 inches ones also work quite well, but they can at times provide a faint and unclear view depending on the position of the objects and atmospheric conditions as well.

Another factor you need to consider is the magnifying capability of your telescope.
Telescopes tend to magnify the viewing objects as well as the atmospheric turbulence. That’s why just magnifying alone cannot guarantee you a clearer view. In some cases, over-magnifying may even backfire and the light may spread more making the image blurry and lifeless.

You can adjust the range of magnification by changing the eyepiece. Usually, telescopes can handle magnification that is 50 times the aperture length of its own. Opt for keeping the magnification in this range otherwise, the image will start to blur.

Lastly, telescope body size and weight don’t have a direct impact on viewing quality, but they still determine if the scope is portable or not. So, avoid going for a bulky telescope as it may become a hassle to carry it.

What Magnification Telescope Do I Need to See Planets?

Before deciding the type of magnification you need to see planets, note some important factors that work along with magnification.

Angular magnification capability affects how wide you can view a particular object to its size.
F/ number or a ‘fast’ telescope means a short focal length and a large viewing field. But it has little impact on the brightness and details of the image.
Field angle is another factor that determines how much of the actual sky we see through the eyepiece. All these factors assisting the magnifying range give you a proper view of the objects.

Now, as we previously mentioned, try to keep the magnification range within 50 times of the aperture length. This means in the case of a 6-inch scope, go for a maximum of 300x of magnification. You can have 400 x magnifications with an 8-inch scope. But for normal nights, the optimal magnification suggested by many viewers is 200x.

And as for the minimum magnification, go for a 20x-40x range.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 

Which telescope is best for viewing planets and galaxies?

Actually, we’ve presented the list of telescopes that are great for viewing planets, galaxies, the moon, stars, mars, and many other components. So you can undoubtedly choose one from the top.

How much I should spend on a telescope?

Well, it entirely depends on you how much you want to spend. But in case you are a beginner and want to be an astronomer, then it is wise for you to spend 200 to 2000 on a single telescope.

Is magnification retention important?

Of course, magnification retention is important when you want to see a close view of your desired object.

Final Words

We warp up with the hope that from our topmost product list, you might already get your best telescope for viewing planets and galaxies. You know we have included here only those who are not just the best but awesome for showing your yearning objects.

Now it is your turn. Enjoy tracking the distinctive object in the sky with a great telescope in your hand.

Good luck!

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