Best Telescopes Under $500: 5 Great Options for the Amateur Astronomer

For amateur astronomers, telescopes are one of the most important tools to observe and study the night sky. However, buying a telescope can be a daunting task, especially for those who are just starting out. The good news is that there are plenty of great telescopes available at or below the $500 threshold that can provide excellent views of the universe without breaking the bank. In this article, we will take a look at the top 5 best telescopes under $500 for amateur astronomers.

1. Celestron NexStar 130 SLT

The Celestron NexStar 130 SLT is a high-quality reflector telescope that comes equipped with a computerized mount that makes it easy to find and track celestial objects. The telescope has a 130mm aperture, which provides excellent light-gathering capabilities, and a focal length of 650mm, which makes it perfect for observing deep-sky objects such as galaxies and nebulae.

Pros:

• Computerized mount for easy tracking of celestial objects
• Large aperture for excellent light-gathering capabilities
• Suitable for deep-sky observations
• Affordable price point

Cons:

• Some users report difficulty with the computerized mount
• Plastic components may feel less sturdy than metal alternatives

2. Orion StarBlast II 4.5 EQ Reflector

The Orion StarBlast II 4.5 EQ Reflector is a compact and portable telescope that is ideal for beginners. The telescope has a 4.5-inch aperture and a focal length of 900mm, which provides clear and crisp views of the moon, planets, and other celestial objects. The equatorial mount allows for smooth and easy tracking of objects in the night sky.

Pros:

• Compact and portable design
• Equatorial mount for easy tracking of celestial objects
• Affordable price point
• Suitable for lunar and planetary observations

Cons:

• Small aperture may limit deep-sky observations
• The telescope may require additional accessories for optimal use

3. Meade Instruments Infinity 102mm AZ Refractor

The Meade Instruments Infinity 102mm AZ Refractor is a versatile telescope that provides excellent views of both the moon and planets as well as deep-sky objects such as galaxies and nebulae. The telescope has a 102mm aperture and a focal length of 600mm, which provides clear and sharp images of celestial objects. The altazimuth mount allows for easy tracking and alignment of celestial objects.

Pros:

• Versatile telescope for a variety of celestial observations
• Altazimuth mount for easy tracking and alignment
• Suitable for lunar, planetary, and deep-sky observations
• Affordable price point

Cons:

• Plastic components may feel less sturdy than metal alternatives
• Some users report difficulty with the included eyepieces

4. Sky-Watcher Classic 150 Dobsonian

The Sky-Watcher Classic 150 Dobsonian is a powerful telescope that is ideal for observing deep-sky objects such as galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters. The telescope has a 6-inch aperture and a focal length of 1200mm, which provides excellent light-gathering capabilities and clear and crisp images of celestial objects. The Dobsonian mount allows for easy and smooth movement of the telescope.

Pros:

• Powerful telescope for deep-sky observations
• Large aperture for excellent light-gathering capabilities
• Smooth and easy movement with the Dobsonian mount
• Affordable price point

Cons:

• Large and bulky design may not be suitable for all users
• No equatorial mount for easy tracking of celestial objects

5. Celestron PowerSeeker 127EQ

The Celestron PowerSeeker 127EQ is a powerful and versatile telescope that provides excellent views of the moon, planets, and other celestial objects. The telescope has a 5-inch aperture and a focal length of 1000mm, which allows for clear and crisp images of celestial objects. The equatorial mount allows for smooth and easy tracking of celestial objects, and the included accessories make it easy to get started with observing the night sky.

Pros:

• Equatorial mount for easy tracking of celestial objects
• Suitable for lunar and planetary observations
• Affordable price point
• Comes with useful accessories for beginners

Cons:

• Small aperture may limit deep-sky observations
• Some users report difficulty with the included accessories

Conclusion

Choosing a telescope can be a daunting task, especially for those who are just starting out in amateur astronomy. However, with so many great telescopes available at or below the $500 threshold, it’s possible to find a high-quality telescope that will provide excellent views of the night sky without breaking the bank.

The Celestron NexStar 130 SLT, Orion StarBlast II 4.5 EQ Reflector, Meade Instruments Infinity 102mm AZ Refractor, Sky-Watcher Classic 150 Dobsonian, and Celestron PowerSeeker 127EQ are all great options for amateur astronomers who are looking for a high-quality telescope that is affordable and easy to use.

Ultimately, the best telescope for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the type of celestial objects you want to observe, the level of portability you require, and your budget when making your decision. With the right telescope, you’ll be able to explore the wonders of the universe and gain a deeper appreciation for the cosmos.