10 Best Telescope For Watching 2025 in the United States

The Gskyer Telescope 600x90mm AZ Astronomical Refractor Telescope is a solid choice for adults interested in astronomy. With a 90mm aperture and 600mm focal length, it offers clear and bright images of celestial objects, making it suitable for both beginners and more experienced users. The fully coated optics help ensure good light transmission and eye protection, which is crucial for enjoyable stargazing sessions.

It includes three eyepieces (24X, 60X, and 120X) and a 3x Barlow lens, providing flexible magnification options up to 360x, which is great for detailed observations of the moon and planets. The adjustable aluminum tripod allows for various viewing positions, enhancing user comfort. However, at 18 pounds, it is relatively heavy, which could impact portability for some users.

The Altazimuth mount is user-friendly and doesn't require tools for setup, making the telescope easy to operate even for novices. The package includes a 12-month warranty and customer support, adding to its appeal. While it delivers excellent performance for its price range, the weight might be a consideration for those needing a highly portable option.

The Gskyer Telescope is designed for beginners, especially kids, and offers a 70mm aperture with a 400mm focal length. These features allow for clear and bright views of the moon and stars. The telescope comes with fully coated optics, which ensure high transmission of light and protect users' eyes. It includes two eyepieces and a 3x Barlow lens, boosting magnification options and making it versatile for different celestial objects.

Additionally, the 5x24 finderscope helps in easily locating objects in the night sky. A significant advantage is the inclusion of a phone adapter and wireless remote, allowing users to capture images of their observations conveniently. The adjustable tripod and carry bag enhance its portability, making it easy to transport and store. However, the manual focus might be a bit challenging for some beginners to use effectively.

The Altazimuth mount is user-friendly but not ideal for advanced tracking of celestial objects. Weighing 5.7 pounds and with a compact design, it is lightweight and manageable. This telescope is highly ranked and well-received, making it a great choice for novice astronomers looking to explore the night sky with ease.

The Celestron NexStar 130SLT is a computerized telescope designed for stargazing, featuring a Newtonian reflector optical design with a 130mm aperture. This aperture size is sufficient for viewing detailed images of the Moon, Saturn’s rings, and Jupiter’s cloud bands, making it suitable for both beginners and intermediate users interested in planetary observation and deep-sky objects. The telescope's computerized hand control and SkyAlign technology simplify the process of locating and tracking celestial objects, providing a seamless experience for users without extensive astronomical knowledge.

Additionally, it includes a database of over 4,000 celestial objects, enhancing its utility for educational purposes and hobbyists alike. The compact and portable design makes it convenient for transport to various observation sites, which is ideal for users who enjoy stargazing in different environments. The altazimuth mount is user-friendly, but it may not provide the precision needed for advanced astrophotography. The telescope includes two eyepieces (20mm and 9mm), offering flexibility in magnification. However, the manual focus may require some practice for clear viewing.

The free Starry Night software is a valuable addition, providing an interactive sky simulation that can enhance the learning experience. Backed by Celestron's strong warranty and customer support, users can rely on assistance if needed. On the downside, it relies on battery power, which may not be convenient for extended use, and the product's dimensions and weight could be a consideration for those seeking extreme portability. Nevertheless, the Celestron NexStar 130SLT offers a comprehensive package for those interested in exploring the night sky with a reliable and user-friendly telescope.