The best telescope for astrophotography is a big powerful telescope that can track the night sky so you can take detailed shots of our solar system and beyond. Here are the best telescopes for astrophotography and which one is right for you.
DSLR astrophotography is a wonderful hobby, but you can’t just throw any old telescope onto your camera and expect it to work. If you want to succeed at astrophotography, you need to get the best telescope for astrophotography possible. One that does it all. DSLR astrophotography starts with the right telescope for deep space astrophotography or closeup astro photography with whatever camera you choose.
DSLRs are the ideal camera choice for astrophotography. The best telescopes for astrophotography should provide light gathering capacity with a wide-field of view and lots of light transmission, while also providing sharp pinpoint images—and the best telescope for astrophotography is no exception. It’s easy to see why DSLRs are so popular among amateur astronomers: they offer high levels of customization and control, ease of use, quick lens interchangeability and built-in stabilization, long battery life, and low price point. When shopping for a telescope for this purpose, there are several main things you’ll want to consider:
Best professional telescope
The best telescopes for astrophotography also make great entry-level telescopes for beginners. They’re easy to set up and use, offer good value for money and give you beautiful views of the night sky without breaking your bank account.
Long Exposure Astrophotography: Use a large aperture telescope for astrophotography with a fast lens. The best telescopes for astrophotography are generally much larger than those used for observing a faint target, as they need to collect as much light as possible, and be able to image through long exposure times (up to 30 minutes or more per frame). In addition, these telescopes must be extremely stable, since even a small amount of movement will cause diffraction spikes in your stars.
Astronomy is a broad term that covers many different types of object, from planets to meteors and stars. Some of the most stunning views are from space itself, where distant planets can be seen and entire galaxies look like tiny glowing dots. Astronomical objects like these are best seen with a good telescope, rather than by viewing them through the lens of a camera or binoculars.
The best telescope for astrophotography
The 5 Best Telescopes for Astrophotography
- Orion SpaceProbe Reflector Telescope – Best Overall
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The Orion 9007 features 5 inches of aperture. This means that it will be able to work with a fairly moderate amount of light to give you views of brighter galaxies and solar systems. It’s not going to be great for looking at deeper space objects, but for the average hobbyist, 5 inches of aperture are more than plenty to work with.
The unit features a relatively compact 24-inch design and comes with a well-built tripod that should make the process of manually tracking celestial materials a little bit easier. For an eyepiece, the package comes with a 30X lens, and of course, there is always the option to upgrade as needed.
Attachments for hooking up phones or cameras are also available.
Finally, it is also just easy to handle. The telescope features a 25-pound build that should be at least relatively easy to get around with.
Unfortunately, we did observe a bit of a durability problem. The body of the instrument gets dented very easily. Best case scenario, the damage will only be cosmetic, but remember that telescopes are very delicate instruments. However, we still think that this is the best telescope for astrophotography this year.Pros
Compact build
Relatively lightweight
5 inches of aperture
Good tripod included
Cons
Some durability concerns
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- Celestron Inspire Refracting Telescope – Best Value
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The Celestron distinguishes itself as the best telescope for astrophotography for the money. If you want a reliable telescope for a good price, this will be a top option to consider.
While this unit does not have any of the fancier features that we will observe from some of the other selections on our list, it is simple and easy for the beginner to sink their teeth into. It can be set up in minutes with no tools required and features an onboard LED light attachment for easier use in the dark.
It’s also great for photography thanks to the smartphone lens adapter that comes with the unit. Finally, it features a remarkably light 14-pound bodyweight that will be great for moving the telescope around from place to place.
These things said, there are some unfortunate factors in the con column. Most notably, the specs don’t lend themselves well to anything other than the most ideal of conditions. You will be able to view brighter systems without issue, but in any other circumstance, you will be out of luck.Pros
Affordable
Lightweight build
LED light attachment
Smartphone adapter
Cons
Specs a little lacking in quality
- Meade Instruments Observer Telescope – Premium Choice
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If you have a healthy chunk of change to put towards this purchase, you might want to consider directing it at the Meade Instruments unit. The high-quality 90-mm lens features an ultra-high transmission coating that further improves the image rendering quality.
This telescope is digitally powered and features an onboard database that includes over 30,000 celestial objects. The battery life allows you to use these digitally powered features for four-hour increments giving you plenty of use time.
Last but not least, it comes with a sturdy, motorized tripod that will make it considerably easier to track celestial objects.
The only thing we took issue with was the aperture specs. You get 3.5 inches, which certainly isn’t horrible, but it also isn’t the best you can get from a product in this price range. You will still be able to get good use out of this product, but it’s not quite as good for low-light scenarios as other units on the list.
Buyers will also want to bear in mind that there are no photography components included with the telescope. Depending on the equipment you already have on hand, you may need to buy additional accessories before you can start taking pictures.Pros
Digital controls
Motorized tripod
30,000-object database
Cons
Low aperture level for the price
No camera equipment included
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- Celestron PowerSeeker Astrophotography Telescope
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The Celestron has been specifically designed with the beginner in mind. It comes with astronomy software that serves as a sort of 101 course with all the basic information you could want. It also includes a well-made tripod that can be easily adjusted for tracking and focusing.
The unit comes with 5 inches of aperture, which makes it decent for low light viewing. It also can be magnified at a rate of 18X. Finally, with the right attachment, it can easily be hooked up to a cell phone for taking pictures.
Just understand that this is made with the family in mind. If you are an academic, amateur or otherwise, you will want something with a higher viewing quality and a better aperture rating.Pros
Software included
Decent tripod included
Hooks up to cell phone
Cons
Viewing quality is limited
Fairly low aperture rating
- Sky-Watcher Evoguide Refractor Telescope
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We close the list out with the Sky-Watcher. This is one of the more basic units on our list. However, there are several big benefits that stem from the simplicity. For one thing, it weighs just 2 pounds, which will make it easy to transport. Granted, this does not include a tripod, which you will need to supply for yourself, but still, the low weight level is plenty desirable.
It is also pre-threaded to be attached to DSLR cameras. This makes it very easy to enjoy a high-quality photography experience the moment you unbox the telescope.
Unfortunately, it is also quite pricey. For the same money, you spend here you could probably find a much more automated telescope. It’s not that the product is in any way lacking. The problem is simply that there may be better uses of your money available on this list.Pros
Pre-threaded for DSLR
Very lightweight
Great for photography
Cons
Pricey
Lacking in value relative to other options on this list
Buyer’s Guide – Choosing the Best Telescopes for Astrophotography
Telescopes are really complicated. If you feel overwhelmed by the information we’ve covered to this point, it makes sense. Read on for a list of buying considerations that should make your decision easier.https://www.youtube.com/embed/bub6ege1Qas?not_used=1&rel=0&modestbranding=1https://df5e28245717af5741fdf1b45355ebf9.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-38/html/container.html
First of all, what makes a telescope good for photography?
That’s a good question. The truth is that almost any telescope can be used for photography. We are basically just dealing with super fancy, well-calibrated lenses her. As long as you can thread that lens onto your camera you will be in good shape.
However, in some cases, the attachment process is easier said than done. While some of the units come pre-threaded for phones or DSLR cameras, others require pricey attachments. That is something to consider as you factor for budget.
Magnification Means Very Little
What? That’s crazy talk. No, it’s true. Magnification is inconsequential for the fact that it can really be expanded limitlessly with the right eyepiece.
The magnification level does not say much at all about the actual quality of the telescope. Aperture is a much more important consideration because it is what enhances the actual viewing quality.
Celestial Database
As you might imagine, telescopes are pretty sophisticated these days. Many units feature onboard databases that are specially designed to make it easier to find celestial objects. For example, some telescopes can include the coordinates of tens of thousands of celestial bodies already pre-loaded.
Whether you are an expert or an amateur, these presets make using the telescope infinitely easier.
Accessories
Most of the telescopes on our list come with at least some accessories. Most of the time this will mean a tripod, and possibly a carrying case. Others will also come with specialty threading attachments to help you hook up a variety of different cameras.
Naturally, you don’t necessarily need any of these accessories but they will make it easier to use the telescope the moment you get it out of the box.
Auto-Tracking
As on earth, so too in space, things move. Celestial objects can be very difficult to track with the human eye and hand. And, unfortunately, when you lose track of an object, it can be very difficult to find it again. After all, this is space we are talking about. It’s sizable.
Auto tracking features make things much easier. Some telescopes can automate the tracking process making it really easy to maintain a line on celestial objects.
Naturally, automation features are outstanding but the hardware also comes into play. You want to make sure that your telescope will be able to move seamlessly on well-designed hardware. For example, a high-quality motor, and properly maintained brass fixtures can go a long way towards facilitating a smooth tracking experience.
Cell Phone Attachment
Since we are talking about astrophotography, it is also prudent to mention what role your phone can play in this process. Historically speaking, celestial photography has required high-end equipment that only true specialists would have at their disposal. These cameras cost hundreds of dollars (or more) and they can be very difficult to use and maintain.
However, we now live in a world where most people have very good cameras sitting in their pockets at all times. A cell phone attachment will make it easy for anyone to take high-quality space photographs.
Price
Really high-end telescopes cost upwards of $1,000. The best products can cost that many times over. However, you can also find decent moderately priced units that are still compatible with astrophotography.
There are several affordable units on our list that serve to democratize the process of astrophotography, and stargazing in general.
Image Credit: Lucas Pezeta from Pexels
Aperture
Aperture is among the most important considerations for any piece of optical equipment. It refers to the diameter of the lens or mirror that renders the image. More importantly, though, it indicates how much light your telescope will be able to utilize.
Weight
The weight of a telescope will have a big impact on your overall user experience. Unless you live in the country, chances are pretty good that you will need to travel to get the most out of your new instrument.
Consequently, you will want something that is both optimized for transport and light enough to move around easily.
As far as optimization is concerned there are several factors that contribute to the overall transportability of a telescope. For example, a carrying case can make the unit easier to move while also ensuring the instrument gets where it is going safely.
Ergonomics is also important. Some telescopes will feature comfort grips that make them easier to hold onto.
Factoring for an ideal weight is regrettably a little bit more complicated. Optimally, you could find something in the 10-pound range. Indeed, with simpler telescopes, this is fairly achievable. However, the more complex the unit gets, the bigger the hardware becomes. The bigger the hardware becomes, the heavier the telescopes get.
Some quote-unquote portable telescopes top the scales at nearly 100 pounds. Unfortunately, in some situations, you won’t have a choice; but where there is flexibility, favor the lighter unit.
Lens Coating
Lenses can benefit heavily from specialty coatings. Basically, these are just chemicals that are baked onto the lens that make it better at separating darkness from light. In other words, they make the void of space seem darker and richer, while also making the brightness of the stars more vibrant.
This is great for viewing in general but it also lends itself very well to photography. Traditionally speaking, specially coated lenses are only available on higher-end units. However, telescopes have also been financially democratized recently making it much easier to get good units at a better price.
Consequently, you should be able to find options out there that are both affordable and well suited for delivering high-quality images.
Astronomy 101
Astronomy is really pretty complicated. People dedicate their entire lives to the study of it, and even then, are left with much that they don’t know. Consequently, the average beginner probably won’t have a ton of luck randomly poking their scope out in random directions.
You will be much better served with some pointers. To that end, some telescopes actually make a point of helping you out. Many telescopes that are made for the beginner will come with instructional software included. They might tell you what to look for from a variety of star systems, and also show you around your new instrument.
Of course, in lieu of this, you can always hop around online to learn the things you need to know. However, it can also be very handy to get something that cooperates specifically with your telescope.
Conclusion:
All five of the products spotlighted in our telescopes for astrophotography reviews are really great at what they do. But which one is the best telescope for astrophotography for you? Selecting between five high end, complicated products can be very difficult to do.
It may help to keep a couple of recommendations in mind. Buyers that want something really solid are going to favor the Orion 9007 SpaceProbe Reflector Telescope. It’s highly effective and efficient at what it does.
However, bargain hunters can also find good options by considering products like our runner up the Celestron Inspire 22402 Refracting Telescope. Of course, now that you’ve read our buyers guide, you’re pretty much an expert so be confident in your decision.
My goal is for you to find an astrophotography telescope that allows you to capture sharp, colorful pictures of stars, galaxies, and nebulae in your own backyard. With that being said, here is my advice.
What’s the best astrophotography telescope for a beginner? I am often asked this question, and the answer is, the one that provides consistent results. If you plan on using a telescope for photography with your DSLR camera, the following list should help you make your decision. These are entry-level, high-quality telescopes with a proven track record of success.
Choosing your first astrophotography telescope
First things first. I am not an expert astrophotographer, I am just a guy who’s been able to capture some decent images with modest astrophotography equipment in my backyard. I have over 8 years worth of deep-sky astrophotography experience, with countless successful imaging sessions under the stars.
The proof is in the photos, not the specs
I like to see real results using astrophotography equipment, more so than the intricate details of optical performance graphs. The advanced technical traits of a telescope are only useful if the instrument is a pleasure to operate.
Keeping an expensive telescope polished and in the house is not my style. This is an overview of the instruments that I consider to be a contender for the best beginner astrophotography telescope.
The Lagoon and Trifid Nebulae captured using the William Optics RedCat 51.
I don’t believe a beginner should jump into this hobby and buy an expensive telescope for astrophotography right away. Astrophotography requires a great deal of patience.
You need to love the process inside and out to push through the steep learning curve and inevitable frustrations along the way. There is a large emphasis on affordability and value on my list.
If you are looking for a reliable astrophotography telescope for under $500, I’ve got some bad news. Expect to pay a minimum of $1,000 US for a new model. The used marketplace may offer some savings, but be sure to request detailed information about the condition of the optics before purchasing.
If you compare the prices of these telescopes to a telephoto camera lens, they are actually quite affordable.
I consider a small apochromatic refractor to be the absolute best choice for beginners, and that’s what I’ll recommend.
Proven winners for deep-sky imaging
When I was starting out, I searched for reviews, testimonials, and product detail pages for hours before purchasing my first primary imaging instrument. Now, there are more astrophotography telescopes available than ever, making the search even more complex.
When you narrow your search down to entry-level telescopes with high performance, some clear winners in the category of best beginner astrophotography telescope rise to the surface.
Smart choices for those who want results with modest equipment and limited knowledge.
My choices are heavily geared towards the practicality and usability of the telescope in an astrophotography situation. After all, beginners have enough to learn early on and should have the best telescope possible to avoid an agonizing experience in the dark.
These telescopes will grow your interest in the hobby, not ruin it!
I get several emails each day asking which telescope I recommend for beginner astrophotography setups.
This section of the website is long overdue, as it will be nice to have somewhere to direct beginners looking for more information about the telescopes I recommend in my e-mails and messages.
What you Need to Start Imaging
Different vendors will offer various packages for the telescopes listed below. The inclusion of the accessories you need to get started may ultimately be the deciding factor of which telescope you choose.
There are certain accessories that may not come with the telescope you are looking to purchase. Often, this is the reason for fluctuations in price between models with similar specifications. As a rule of thumb, you will need:
A diagonal for visual observation and mount alignment
A finder scope with brackets for visual observation and autoguiding implementation
Tube rings and a dovetail bar, or an integrated dovetail for mounting
A carrying case to protect the telescope during travel and storage
A field flattener/reducer to create a flat field for imaging
Make sure you add these additional items (if necessary) to your overall budget before deciding on a particular scope. It is also wise to confirm the mounting-style of the dovetail saddle on your telescope mount.
For example, the Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro features a dual saddle design that allows for both v-style and d-style dovetail bars.
The Power of an APO
The 5 telescopes on this list are all small Apochromatic Refractors. The main reason I am such a huge fan of this type of telescope is its ability to consistently capture high-quality images. With that being said, let’s take a look at the other benefits a small apochromatic telescope has:
Lightweight
Portable
Great color correction
Does not require regular collimation
Adjusts to temperature fast
Wide field of view
Easy to focus
Less condensation/dew issues
The Benefits of Wide Field
A wider field of view is more forgiving when it comes to deep-sky astrophotography. This means that small errors in autoguiding are less noticeable than they would be through an SCT with a long focal length.
The tighter your field of view is, the more precise your focus and autoguiding must be. As an example, the William Optics RedCat 51 has a focal length of 250mm. This is a superb focal length for large targets such as the Andromeda Galaxy.
The Andromeda Galaxy. Canon 60Da DSLR and William Optics RedCat 51.
Many beginners are using crop-sensor DSLR cameras through the telescope. With an APS-C sized crop sensor like you find in the Canon T5i, the focal length becomes 400mm. (250mm x 1.6 Crop factor).
This is a forgiving and convenient field of view when capturing large nebulae such as the North America Nebula or the reflection nebulosity found within the Pleiades.
For many of the refractors listed on this page, a field flattener/reducer (or focal corrector) is recommended to get the most out of the optics. Depending on the size of your camera sensor, you may need a field flattener to achieve a flat field across the entire image.
If you’re using a focal reducer, you can expect to get an even wider image with your DSLR camera or dedicated astronomy camera.
The Apochromatic Advantage
Apochromatic refractors use ED extra-low-dispersion glass to enhance resolution and reduce chromatic aberration. All of the telescopes on this list are air-spaced doublets or triplets.
The manufacturers of these refractors refer to APO’s as ultra-high contrast. They all include light baffles inside of the lens cell to reject stray light.
A field-flattener and/or reducer may be required for a completely flat field of view to the edge of the frame. For each of the models below, I will list the recommended field flattener/reducer to go along with it.
The Best Astrophotography Telescope for a Beginner
5 hassle-free telescopes capable of jaw-dropping deep-sky images using a DSLR camera and a tracking EQ mount.
Let’s get right to it. The compact and reliable refractors below have all proven themselves worthy of a night under the stars. The first telescope on the list is responsible for my than half of the images in my photo gallery.
Explore Scientific ED80
Diameter: 80mm
Focal Length: 480mm
Focal Ratio: f/6
Weight: 5.95 lbs
Glass: FDC1 (Hoya)
Recommended Field Flattener/Reducer: StarField 0.8X Reducer/Flattener
The Explore Scientific ED80 is a superb telescope for astrophotography. This was the telescope that allowed me to capture my first long-exposure deep-sky images including the Orion Nebula, North America Nebula, and the great Andromeda Galaxy.
If you would like to read my Explore Scientific ED80 review, please visit that section of my website for a complete analysis of this telescope’s astrophotography performance.
This telescope is available at OPT
The ES ED80 is an affordable option for beginners, with a high-value return. The package I purchased back in 2011 included a hard shell carry case, diagonal and an illuminated finder scope.
This scopes small size and weight means that it will get plenty of use both visually and photographically. Entry-level mounts such as the Celestron AVX or the Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro have no problem carrying this telescope and all necessary astrophotography gear.
“The astrophotos I have been able to capture with this telescope have opened my eyes to a higher level of image quality. I have not been able to achieve images of this quality using a Newtonian telescope.” – AstroBackyard
Explore Scientific also offers a carbon fiber version of the ED80. The CF version has identical specs other than the fact that it is lighter and better at adapting to temperature.
Orion ED80T CF
Diameter: 80mm
Focal Length: 480mm
Focal Ratio: f/6
Weight: 5.5 lbs
Glass: FPL-53
Recommended Field Flattener/Reducer: Orion FF for short refractors
The Orion ED80T CF is very similar to the Explore Scientific 80mm Apo. They share the same focal length, size, and weight, yet use different ED glass. The Orion ED80 is an extremely popular choice for beginners as it offers high-quality imaging performance at a reasonable price.
The Orion 80EDT is available from OPT
Both the Orion and Explore Scientific 80mm models included a built-in dew shield and 2″ dual-speed Crayford style focusers. The biggest deciding factor between the Explore Scientific ED80 and the Orion 80EDT will likely come down to the accessories included, and customer service from each company.
I have had great experiences with both Orion Telescopes and Binoculars and Explore Scientific.
“Fell in love with the feel and looks of this incredible little scope.. First light was just days ago…my target was the lunar surface…the image was razor sharp..the contrast of craters, rills. scarpes, mountains, were breathtaking…” – Orion ED80T CF Review on OPT
Images using the Orion ED80T CF with a ZWO ASI1600MM-Cool Camera
The images above were taken by Chuck Ayoub using the Orion 80EDT Carbon Fiber APO with a cooled CMOS camera. The images were shot using narrowband filters to create false-color images of the Rosette Nebula and Heart Nebula. As you can see, this refractor produces crisp images with a wide field of view.
View Chucks Astrophotography images on Astrobin
William Optics Zenithstar 73 APO
Diameter: 73mm
Focal Length: 430mm
Focal Ratio: f/5.9
Weight: 5.5 lbs
Glass: FPL-53
Recommended Field Flattener/Reducer: William Optics FLAT73
If you have watched the videos on my YouTube channel, you’ll know that my William Optics Zeinthstar 73 gets plenty of use in the backyard. I genuinely love using this compact apochromatic doublet from the backyard and beyond.
This is the telescope I used to photograph the Andromeda Galaxy in a video I published in 2019. The Zenithstar 73 can be mounted to a modest equatorial telescope mount such as the Sky-Watcher HEQ5, or EQ6-R Pro as shown below.
The William Optics Zenithstar 73 APO with a 50mm guide scope attached.
I prefer to use the Z73 with my Canon 60Da DSLR camera over a dedicated astronomy camera, to maximize the APS-C sensor and wide-field imaging capabilities. There are a lot of features I love about the Z73, but here are the ones that really stand out.
Because the Z73 is so lightweight and portable, it’s a great option for anyone using an entry-level telescope mount. At just over 5 lbs., and 310mm in length (retracted), this little telescope can easily fit in a backpack when traveling to a dark sky site. This portability does not sacrifice any image quality, just a little aperture.
The William Optics Z73 is available from OPT
Speaking of aperture, this 73mm telescope clocks in at F/5.9 – which means that it collects light respectably fast in terms of a telescope. In comparison, the RedCat 51 is faster at F/4.9, but the Z73 gives you more aperture and almost twice the reach.
Add in the recommended Flat73A field flattener, and your deep-sky images will have round, pinpoint stars to the edge of your image in an APS-C or full-frame DSLR camera.
The precision dual-speed focuser is ultra-smooth and stable. The focuser includes a thermometer to monitor the temperature while imaging. This is useful when the temperature drops at night, and you need to re-focus your target slightly.
The wide focal length (430mm) comes in handy when imaging large targets such as the Andromeda Galaxy. Even a crop-sensor (APS-C) sized DSLR like my Canon 600D produces a nice wide 688mm field of view for large deep sky imaging projects.
Images captured using a DSLR with the Zenithstar 73 APO Doublet.
The built-in dew-shield, high-quality glass (FPL-53, synthetic flourite) and the deep sky imaging performance of this little doublet make it more than worthy of making this list. Wrap everything up with a modest price tag, and you’ve got a real winner in the Z73.
Don’t forget to factor in extras such as the color-matched dovetail bar, Flat73 field flattener, or tube mounting rings for an autoguiding system. Overall, the Zenithstar 73 Doublet is an excellent value and the perfect wide-field astrophotography telescope.
Sky-Watcher Evostar 80ED
Diameter: 80mm
Focal Length: 600mm
Focal Ratio: f/7.5
Weight: 12.6 lbs
Glass: Schott BK-7 and FPL-53 ED
Recommended Field Flattener/Reducer: Sky-Watcher 0.85X focal reducer and corrector for Pro ED80
The Sky-Watcher EvoStar 80ED has been an extremely popular choice for amateur astrophotography enthusiasts for years. This apochromatic doublet refractor sits in the “sweet spot” between performance and price point.
For those looking to purchase an imaging APO under $1000, the Sky-Watcher EvoStar 80ED is a fantastic choice. For a great overview of the EvoStar 80ED, be sure to watch this review by my good friend Ruzeen of the AstroFarsography YouTube channel.
This is a wide-field astrophotography telescope that can also be used for visual observations through the eyepiece. Like the other telescopes mentioned on this page, the EvoStar 80ED is compact and portable.
Extra-low dispersion (ED) glass is utilized to avoid chromatic aberration and provide commendable color-correction. It’s an apochromatic doublet, so you’ll want to invest in the dedicated field flattener/reducer for the 80ED for a totally flat field across the image frame.
The Sky-Watcher EvoStar 80ED is available at OPT
At F/7.5 (or stopped down to F/6.3), the Sky-Watcher EvoStar 80ED is suitable for long-exposure astrophotography with your DSLR or mirrorless camera, one-shot-color astronomy camera, or even a monochrome CCD.
The only “knock” I’ve seen on the Sky-Watcher EvoStar 80ED is the quality of the focuser. Visual observers will find it more than adequate, but for heavier imaging configurations, a robust focuser is an absolute must.
Here is an interesting thread on Cloudy Nights comparing the Sky-Watcher EvoStar 80Ed with a comparable option from Stellarvue.
Here’s what others have to say about the EvoStar 80ED:
“It’s a forgiving field of view for imaging and versatile for multiple targets in the night sky. The color correction is on point and I’ve not seen any fringing or chromatic aberration in my images. If you’re looking for a telescope ready for winter for your DSLR then definitely consider a Skywatcher Evostar Pro 80ED.” – AstroFarsography
William Optics RedCat 51
Diameter: 51mm
Focal Length: 250mm
Focal Ratio: f/4.9
Weight: 3.2 lbs
Glass: FPL-53
Recommended Flattener/Reducer: None (Petzval Lens Design)
The William Optics RedCat 51 is not only an incredibly useful apochromatic telescope/lens for astrophotography, but it is also one of the most beautiful optical instruments in the market. This is the only telescope on my list that features a helical focuser, like the ones you would find on an expensive telephoto camera lens.
The RedCat 51 is very small and lightweight, just 3.2 pounds. This means that you do not require a robust equatorial telescope mount to take long exposure images. A small camera tracker such as the iOptron SkyGuider Pro is more than enough.
The William Optics RedCat 51 is available at OPT
At 250mm, you may be wondering whether the RedCat has enough reach to photograph deep-sky objects in space in detail. Larger nebulae are best, especially when utilizing the full potential of the large 44mm image circle with a full-frame camera.
My favorite aspects of the RedCat are the tension ring for the helical focuser, and the internal threaded slot for 48mm filters. I like to keep the tension ring very tight when focusing, to get razor-sharp stars in my image from edge to edge.
The RedCat is capable of capturing unforgettable wide-field images with your DSLR or dedicated astronomy camera. Here are a few of my favorite pictures taken using the William Optics RedCat 51:
Honorable Mentions
The best telescope for astrophotography is the one you use the most.
Since this article was originally written, I have had the pleasure of testing a number of new refractor telescopes for astrophotography. The Sky-Watcher Esprit 100 is a stand-out choice but is more expensive than many of the options available on this page. about:blankimage.svg+xml: Sorry, you are not allowed to upload this file type.ImageUpload an image file, pick one from your media library, or add one with a URL.UploadMedia LibraryInsert from URL
The Meade 70mm Quadruplet APO is another excellent choice and one that I have had the pleasure of testing myself. The benefits of this quadruplet-lens telescope are the lack of need for a field flattener, and the high-quality “astrograph” level focuser.
Without being able to use each and every telescope on this list first hand, it is impossible for me to provide a complete review of each model. However, I have plenty of experience using wide-field apochromatic refractors like the ones on this list.
The Sky-Watcher Esprit 100 Super APO.
One of the best ways to gauge the astrophotography capabilities of a particular telescope is to search through the images on Astrobin or Reddit. Most amateur astrophotographers are good at posting their equipment details along with each photo.
I hope that this overview has helped you on your journey. I can only direct you towards a path that has worked for me personally, and lead to years of enjoyment with this hobby. To learn about the current equipment I use for deep-sky astrophotography, please visit the equipment page.
Picking the best telescope for astrophotography is not easy. These aren’t like lenses, where you would need three or more to cover all your bases.
Telescopes are big and expensive items that consume a lot of space. That’s why it’s crucial that you know which options you have.
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Can You Really Take Photos Through a Telescope?
The answer is yes!
But remember that you can’t buy a telescope with a camera already built-in for astrophotography.
You’ll need special tools to let you attach your DSLR or mirrorless camera to your telescope.
You may be tempted to run out and get a telephoto lens for astrophotography. But from a little research, you’ll find that compared to the lenses, telescopes are affordable and reasonable.
A good telescope provides consistent results. After all, creating amazing images is why you got into astrophotography in the first place, right?
The telescope should also be a pleasure to operate. If it isn’t, then it will just sit in the corner of your living room as a conversation starter.
Astrophotography requires a great deal of patience and trial and error. There is a steep learning curve, so you need all the help you can get.
To get a telescope good enough for astrophotography, you should be willing to spend over $1000. But it’s understandable if you don’t want to shell out that amount of money when you’re starting.
So how do you find the best telescope for astrophotography on a budget?
You can always start with quality models that cost a few hundred dollars. Of course, they won’t be as good as the high-end options. But at least you get the chance to learn the craft without breaking the bank.
You can also find good deals on used models. Make sure you get detailed information about their condition. You don’t want to be using options with defective components and dirty lenses.
Now you must be wondering: What is the best camera for a telescope? It’s quite surprising to hear, but any camera will do as long as you have the proper adapter. You can even use your phone if you want.
But if the quality is essential to you, then it would be best to use a DSLR or a mirrorless camera.
A full-frame DSLR or mirrorless camera will give you the best quality. But even an entry-level crop-sensor camera works well. A lot of astrophotography enthusiasts prefer them since the crop factor of the sensor allows them to get just a bit closer to their subject.
Essentials
Apart from a camera and the telescope, there are a few other pieces of equipment you will need:
Diagonal is an angled mirror or prism that allows perpendicular viewing.
Finder scope with brackets helps you find the objects in the sky you want to photograph.
Tube rings and a dovetail bar are adjustable rings for the finder. A dovetail bar is for attaching extra equipment.
Carrying case to protect the telescope during travel and storage.
Field flattener/reducer counters the field-angle dependence of a system’s focal length.
Many of the telescopes that we feature in this article already have most of the accessories we mentioned. However, you may still need to buy a field flattener as they don’t usually come with the kit.
How Do You Attach a Camera to a Telescope?
There are a few different methods to attach your camera to a telescope. But for the sake of demonstration, we will be using the prime focus method.
First, you’ll need a T-Ring for your camera. It’s an adapter with a large hole in the middle. It attaches to your lens mount just like a regular lens.
T-Rings come in different mounts depending on the camera you have. If you have a Canon, you’ll need to buy an adapter specifically designed for the brand. Otherwise, it won’t fit.
The next piece you’ll need is a prime focus adapter. It’s a tube that allows you to attach your camera into the telescope.
Just like T-Rings, prime focus adapters come in different sizes. But this time, the option you need to get will depend on the telescope you have.
Most telescopes either have a 1.25 or 2-inch eyepieces. You need to make sure that the adapter you get will fit the telescope. Thankfully some companies manufacture camera attachments for astrophotography. But you can also buy third-party options.
Now that you have both the T-ring and the prime focus adapter, it’s time to set up your astrophotography equipment!
First, screw on your prime focus adapter to your T-Ring.
Now attach the adapter and T-Ring combination to your camera. Most T-Rings have a small dot similar to the ones you see on lenses. All you have to do is align it with the other dot on your camera and twist it. You’ll know you did it correctly once you hear a click.
The next step is to remove the eyepiece from your telescope. You don’t need to use a screwdriver since your telescope most likely has thumb screws that you can unthread with your fingers.
Once you remove the eyepiece, you can slip the prime focus adapter into the tube. Make sure everything fits snuggle together. If you see any space, you’ll need to get a bigger attachment.
After you slip the prime focus adapter into the telescope, tighten the screws, and that’s it!
What Is The Best Telescope for Deep Sky and Astrophotography?
Deep-sky imaging is photographing the objects in the night sky from the moon and the Milky Way.
There are more telescopes available for deep sky astrophotography today than ever before. That means you will need to sift through more options to find your best telescope for photography.
Practicality and usability are two keywords you should bear in mind when it comes to astrophotography. Finding the best telescope for your needs will help you develop your passion, not ruin it.
So what are the best telescopes for a beginner?
There are plenty of options out there that are candidates for the best telescopes for beginners. They come in different shapes and sizes. There are also two main types of telescopes to consider – refractors and reflectors. Let’s discuss each type and see which one is suitable for you.
Apochromatic Refractors
An apochromatic refractor uses an objective lens of extra-low dispersion glass, as a reduces crisp images without chromatic aberration. Many consider an “apo” to be the ultimate telescope for photography and planetary observing.
These telescopes are also compact, lightweight, and portable. They have excellent color correction, adjust to temperatures fast, and are easy to focus.
We recommend this type of telescope if you are an entry-level astrophotographer.
Reflectors
A reflecting telescope (also called a reflector) is a telescope that uses a single or a combination of curved mirrors. These reflect light and form an image.
Reflecting telescopes produce other types of optical aberrations. But it is a design that allows for large diameter objectives. In other words, it’s perfect for doing “close-ups” of planets as opposed to deep-sky astrophotography.
Wide-Field
Having a wide-field view of the sky is much more forgiving when it comes to deep-sky astrophotography. Small errors are less noticeable than if you were using a telescope with a long focal length.
The tighter your field of view is, the more precise your focus must be. Many people use a combination of a long telephoto lens with a crop sensor camera.
A 400mm lens on an APS-C camera will give you an equivalent of (400mm x 1.6) a 640 mm lens.
This set-up might be great for nebulae, but if you want something more extensive, then you will need to use a flattener. Preferably one which has a range of 0.8x to bring your lens back down to (640mm x 0.8) an equivalent of 512mm.
Now that you know all the different types of telescopes let’s see what your best options are for astrophotography!
We included a few budget-friendly telescopes for beginners along with options for the advanced enthusiasts.
- Gskyer Telescope 70mm
There’s no doubt that astrophotography can be quite expensive. But what if you’re on a super-low budget but still want to try taking photos of the moon or the stars? Then the Gskyer 70mm telescope is the best option for you.
The Gskyer is one of the cheapest options you can find online. But are they any good for astrophotography? The answer yes if you’re a beginner.
In our opinion, the Gskyer is the most reasonably priced telescope that produces decent images. It has a 400mm focal length, which is enough for you to take photos of the moon.
This telescope also includes a phone mount and remote control. So if you want to try astrophotography with your mobile device, this is the way to go!
Since the Gskyer is quite affordable, you may see some chromatic aberration every once in a while. That just means you may find fringes of colours around the moon or other celestial objects. It’s the reason why it’s at the bottom of our list. But the good news is you can quickly fix it in post if you want.
- Orion 10015 StarBlast 4.5 Astro Reflector Telescope
Need a beefier telescope than the Gskyer? Then consider getting the Orion 10015 Starblast. It costs a hundred dollars more plus some change. But it has better features than the Gskyer and already comes preassembled. As soon as you get it out of the box, you can use it right away.
The StartBlast has a 450mm focal length, which is 50mm more than the Gskyer. It also has an aperture of f/4, which lets in a lot of light. That easily translates to you capturing photographs faster than other options. Furthermore, it comes with an optional moon filter. If you buy it, you wouldn’t need to get another filter for your camera anymore.
The Orion Starblast doesn’t come with a tripod. Instead, it comes with a tabletop base. If you’re a beginner, you may find it convenient since you can set it up on your table quickly. But for obvious reasons, you’ll find it challenging to use if you’re taking photos in remote areas.
- Sky-Watcher Evoguide 50 APO Refractor
It’s always nice to save some money on equipment. But when you have a cheap telescope that produces distracting chromatic aberration, is it worth it?
If you want a simple telescope for without spending a lot of money, then consider the Evoguide. It’s under 300 dollars, which is a fantastic price for a high-quality piece of equipment. It doesn’t look as impressive from the outside as compared to its competitors. But when it comes to performance, it belongs in the top-tier, in our opinion.
The Evoguide is a triplet APO refractor. As we learned in the earlier section, that means it has the necessary optics to correct any chromatic aberration that may occur. Its simple design also makes it easy for a beginner. It just looks like any regular telescope, and you can use it right away after you attach your camera to it.
- Orion ED80T CF
The Orion Sky-Watcher is an affordable option for beginner astrophotographers. This scope’s small size and weight mean that it will get plenty of use—both visually and photographically.
The Sky-Watcher has a diameter of 80mm and a focal length of 480mm. The focal ratio is f/6 and weighs 5.5 lbs. It is a popular choice due to its high-quality imaging performance.
There is a built-in dew shield, protecting your telescope for those overnight shots.
Consider the Orion ED80T CF as your first telescope, and you can’t go wrong.
- Celestron – AstroMaster 130EQ Newtonian Telescope
What if you’re an experienced in astrophotography but don’t have enough money for an expensive telescope? Then the Celestron AstroMaster is for you. For less than 300 dollars, it has most, if not all, the features that only more expensive options offer.
With an aperture of 130mm, it’s perfect for photographing planets and deep sky objects. It also features a tracking equatorial mount, which is ideal for long exposure photography. If you’re curious, tracking simply means it’s motorised and follows objects in the sky with pinpoint accuracy.
The only downside of the Celestron AstroMaster is that it’s not really for beginners. It’s challenging to set up and use even without a camera. In other words, you need to be familiar with telescopes to use it to its full potential. But that doesn’t mean you can’t buy it even if you don’t have the experience. After all, it’s not a bad idea to invest in a good piece of astrophotography equipment early on.
- Orion 09007 SpaceProbe 130ST Equatorial Reflector Telescope
Orion is a quality brand of telescopes. It has tons of products that are quite expensive. But it also has budget-friendly options that are perfect for astrophotography beginners. The one that we like the best is the Orion 09007 SpaceProbe 130ST.
What makes the SpaceProbe 130ST special is that it’s made of quality materials, and it’s less than 500 dollars. That’s quite significant, especially that astrophotography demands high-class optics, which Orion offers.
The SpaceProbe has a 5.1-inch aperture that lets you view and photograph distant planets and even nebulas. Its 24-inch tube makes it portable and ideal for long trips. The whole set also only weighs 27 pounds, which isn’t substantial for telescope equipment at all. That means you can take it to remote areas without struggling too much.
Another great feature of the SpaceProbe worth mentioning is its equatorial mount. It allows you to track stars manually with precision.
- Celestron – NexStar 127SLT Computerized Telescope
Are you a beginner with some money but don’t want to break the bank? Then you might want to take a look at the Celestron NexStar 127SLT. It’s quite an advanced telescope that you can buy for less than a thousand dollars!
So what makes the NexStar 127SLT different? The SLT stands for Star Locating Telescope. That means it has a built-in computer, so you don’t have to guess where any of the planets or constellations are in the sky. All you have to do is enter which celestial object you want to track, and this device will find it for you. Now that’s quite an advantage, especially if you’re not familiar with astrophotography yet.
The NexStar 127SLT comes in two telescope types: The refractor and Maksutov. It also has an aperture of 127mm, which is ideal for deep sky astrophotography. It will enable you to take photos of constellations and even observe Saturn’s rings!
- TS-Optics PHOTOLINE 80mm f/6 FPL53 Triplet APO
The Photoline 80mm is perhaps one of the best sub-1,000 dollar telescopes out there. But what truly makes it unique from other options is that it’s purpose-built for astrophotography (hence the title Photoline).
Photoline is perfect for both veterans and beginners in astrophotography because it’s so easy to use. It’s also quite compact at 37.5 centimeters, and it only weighs 6 pounds. So if you want to travel around to take photos of celestial objects, this will be your perfect partner.
Of course, we can’t forget the quality of the photos the Photoline 80mm produces. It’s a triplet APO, which means it doesn’t produce nasty chromatic aberrations. Its sharpness also compares well with its more expensive counterparts. So if you want both superior performance and affordability, this is the best option for you.
P.S. We know the Photoline 80mm is still quite expensive. But if you consider all the value it brings to the table, this telescope is a great deal!
2. Celestron – NexStar 8SE Telescope
The Celestron NexStar 8Se is definitely for advanced astrophotographers since they need a long focal length for a narrow field of view.
This telescope is one of the most expensive telescopes on our list. But it’s also one of the best. It has excellent optics and computerized “GoTo” tracking.
The Nexstar 8 SE comes with a simple red-dot finder scope and a basic 25mm eyepiece. To take full advantage of the Nexstar 8 SE’s excellent optics, you should add a few good eyepieces.
It’s light, portable and very easy to use.
The Celestron NexStar 8Se has Fully-automated go-to mount. It is featuring a database of more than 40,000 celestial objects. The goes to mount built into the telescope automatically locates and tracks objects for you.
Perhaps the only issue with this telescope is that it has a focal ratio of f/10. That means it doesn’t let in plenty of light for your camera. In other words, you may have to spend extra time to expose your images. In contrast, other options have a focal ratio of f/4, which is much better for astrophotography.
- Takahashi FSQ-85
The Takahashi FSQ-85ED is a refractor telescope and is a perfect take-anywhere telescope. It has a 44 mm diameter imaging circle, capable of accepting medium format CCD or DSLR cameras.
The diameter is 85mm and has a focal length of 450mm. The focal ratio is f/5.3, and it weighs in at 8 lbs.
Its amazing features include a premium doublet extra-low dispersion design. As a result, it keeps the colour tones from the earth’s’ atmosphere low.
This wide filed telescope is for intermediate users. Some of the features are a lot more involved than the beginner telescopes.
One thing we like is the built-in camera rotator. It allows the camera rotation of 360° without loss of critical focus.
Which Astrophotography Telescope Is Perfect for You?
It’s easy to say the best telescope is the one that’s expensive and has the best quality. But in reality, not all of us can afford a 4,000 dollar piece of equipment.
Astrophotography doesn’t have to be a rich man’s hobby. Think of this list as a guide to help you decide which one fits your budget and your current needs. You’d be surprised that some of the more affordable options in this article can compete with the more expensive ones. You may have to struggle with other issues on some of them, such as lack of tracking. But as long as the lens produces beautiful results, then that’s all you need.
You can also always start with the cheapest options on the list. Learn the basics first before you invest in anything else. Then take your time to save money for a better telescope. By the time you become familiar with astrophotography, you’ll know how to use even the most complicated equipment.
So remember to do some research on what you want to start photographing. That will determine precisely what you need.
Then, consider your budget for the system affordable for you. You’ll waste a lot of these extra features if you’re not sure how to use them.
Conclusion
Astrophotography is quite an expensive hobby. But we hope that it doesn’t stop you from exploring this fantastic genre. You’ll learn a lot from it, not just from a scientific perspective, but also from a creative point of view.
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