10 Best Beginner Telescopes For Adults 2025 in the United States

The Gskyer Telescope 600x90mm AZ Astronomical Refractor Telescope is a solid choice for beginners interested in astronomy. With a 90mm aperture and 600mm focal length, it provides clear and detailed views of the night sky. The fully coated optics glass lens enhances image quality and protects the eyes, making it a good option for those new to stargazing.

The telescope includes three eyepieces (24X, 60X, 120X) and a 3x Barlow lens, allowing for versatile magnification options to suit different viewing needs. The adjustable aluminum tripod, which can be extended from 31.5 inches to 49 inches, ensures stability and comfort during use. The altazimuth mount type makes the telescope easy to operate, even for novices, and requires no tools for setup or adjustment, simplifying the focusing process.

On the downside, the 18-pound weight might make portability a concern for some users, especially if the telescope needs to be frequently moved. Additionally, while it is built well, some users might find the manual focusing a bit challenging initially. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Gskyer Telescope is a recommended option for beginner astronomers.

The Gskyer Telescope is an excellent choice for adults just starting their journey into astronomy. With a 70mm aperture and 400mm focal length, it offers decent light-gathering ability, which is crucial for observing celestial objects like the moon and stars. The fully coated optics ensure that images are clear and bright, making it easier for beginners to appreciate the night sky.

Included with the telescope are two eyepieces and a 3x Barlow lens, which enhances magnification options, catering to a variety of viewing preferences. The addition of a wireless remote and smartphone adapter allows users to capture images through their phones, which is a fun feature for those wanting to share their experiences.

Portability is another strong point; the adjustable aluminum tripod and the included carry bag make it easy to transport to different locations. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who may want to engage in stargazing trips. However, the manual focus might be a bit challenging for complete novices who may prefer a more intuitive, automatic focusing system. The build quality, while satisfactory, does not offer the ruggedness that more advanced telescopes possess, which could be a concern for those planning to use it in varied outdoor conditions.

The Celestron NexStar 130SLT Computerized Telescope is a solid choice for adults who are new to astronomy and seeking a user-friendly experience. With a 130mm aperture, it effectively gathers light, allowing users to see stunning details of celestial objects like Saturn and Jupiter. The computerized star locating feature is a major highlight, as it boasts a database of over 4,000 objects, making stargazing less intimidating for beginners. The SkyAlign technology simplifies setup, letting you quickly find and track objects in the night sky.

Portability is another strength of the NexStar 130SLT, as its compact design makes it easy to take on camping trips or to dark sky locations. Weighing just 11.4 pounds, it’s manageable for most users. With two eyepieces included (20mm and 9mm), you'll have options for different magnifications right out of the box, which is great for learning.

There are some drawbacks to consider. The manual focus may require some practice to get used to, and the telescope's altazimuth mount, while good for beginners, may not be as stable as more advanced mounts. Additionally, the battery-powered aspect means you’ll need to ensure you have fresh batteries or an alternative power source handy, especially during longer star-gazing sessions. The included Starry Night software is a fantastic bonus, providing an interactive way to learn about the night sky and plan your observations. The warranty and customer support from Celestron also add a layer of confidence to your purchase.