5 Best Telescope For Photography 2025 in the United States

The Sky-Watcher Virtuoso GTI 150P offers several attractive features for astrophotography enthusiasts. Its 150mm aperture and fast f/5 optics mean it can capture bright, bold images of celestial objects, thanks to its significant light-gathering power. The 750mm focal length is solid for viewing a range of targets, from the Moon and planets to galaxies and nebulae, making it versatile for various photographic subjects.

The built-in Wi-Fi and full GoTo performance via the SynScan Pro app is a boon for ease of use, allowing for precise tracking and alignment through a smartphone or tablet. This is complemented by the patented Freedom Find technology, which helps maintain alignment even when adjustments are made manually. This telescope features an Altazimuth mount, which is generally easier to set up and use, especially for beginners, though it may lack the precision of an equatorial mount for long-exposure astrophotography.

Its portability, with a collapsible design and a weight of 25.8 pounds, makes it convenient for transport and setup in different locations. At 20 x 20 x 30 inches, it is compact enough to fit in smaller spaces, adding to its appeal for those who don’t have a dedicated observatory. On the downside, the reliance on manual focus and the potential need for additional adapters to connect a camera could be seen as limitations. Some users might find the requirement for a DC power supply and the included battery less convenient if they prefer a more plug-and-play setup. The Sky-Watcher Virtuoso GTI 150P is a solid choice for those new to astrophotography or hobbyists looking for a portable, user-friendly telescope with good optical performance.

The Sky Watcher Heritage 130mm Tabletop Dobsonian telescope offers a substantial 5-inch aperture, making it capable of capturing detailed views of the night sky. This is a significant strength for astrophotography, as larger apertures allow more light to enter the telescope, improving image clarity and detail. The telescope’s compact and collapsible design enhances portability, making it suitable for on-the-go stargazing and backyard photography sessions.

Additionally, the included accessories such as two eyepieces and a starpointer finderscope are beneficial for beginners who may not have these tools already. Its altazimuth mount is easy to use, especially for novices, but may be less ideal for long-exposure astrophotography, which typically benefits from an equatorial mount for precise tracking of celestial objects. Manual focus, while sufficient for visual observation, might be less convenient for achieving sharp images with a camera.

The reflector design with Radiant Aluminum Quartz coatings helps enhance optical quality, providing clear and bright images. With an item weight of 19.16 pounds, the telescope is relatively easy to move but may not be the most lightweight option available. Beginners and casual astronomy enthusiasts would find this telescope easy to use and set up due to its no-assembly-required design. Its versatility and ease of use make it a strong contender for those new to astrophotography who are looking for an affordable, portable option.

The Sky Watcher Sky-Watcher EvoStar 72 APO Doublet Refractor (S11180) is a compact and portable telescope designed for both astrophotography and visual astronomy. With a 72mm aperture and a focal length of 420mm, it offers a good balance between light-gathering capacity and portability. The doublet objective lens, which includes a synthetic fluorite element, ensures excellent color correction and minimal aberrations, making it suitable for capturing sharp, true-to-color images. The proprietary Metallic High-Transmission Coatings (MHTC) further enhance optical quality by reducing reflections and increasing light transmission.

Its lightweight design (4.3 pounds) and compact dimensions (14 x 23.5 x 10 inches) make it easy to transport, which is ideal for on-the-go astrophotographers and travelers. The 10:1 dual-speed Crayford-style focuser allows for precise focus adjustments, crucial for both visual observations and photography. However, the manual focus and operation might be a drawback for users preferring automated systems. The telescope is compatible with various eyepieces and cameras, ensuring flexibility as your skills and equipment evolve. Supplied with essential accessories like an aluminum case, tube rings, and a Vixen-style dovetail, it is ready for immediate use.

Despite its strengths, users might find the 72mm aperture somewhat limiting for deep-sky objects compared to larger telescopes. Nonetheless, with a customer rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, it is well-regarded among its users and suits both beginners and intermediate astrophotographers looking for a reliable and portable option.