10 Best Telescopes For Adults 2025 in the United States

The Unistellar Odyssey PRO is a smart telescope designed for adults seeking an easy entry into stargazing without the hassle of complex setup. Its 85mm aperture and 320mm focal length (f/3.9) provide a good balance of brightness and viewing range, suitable for observing planets, the moon, and some deep-sky objects from both city balconies and darker locations. The motorized Alt-Az mount with one-click GoTo and autofocus technology eliminates the need for manual alignment, making it very user-friendly, especially for beginners or those who prefer quick setup.

What sets this telescope apart is its integration of digital imaging and app control. You can view through the eyepiece or directly on your phone or tablet, which adds comfort and convenience. The 64GB onboard storage and up to 5 hours of battery life support extended observing sessions and allow you to capture and export high-quality RAW/FITS images for those interested in more advanced astronomy.

Portability is decent—the telescope weighs about 6.5 kg and comes with a sturdy 2.5 kg tripod, making it manageable to transport but not ultra-lightweight for backpacking. The all-in-one system includes everything needed to start observing quickly, including the tripod and automatic finderscope. While the 85mm aperture is moderate and limits deep-sky detail compared to larger telescopes, and the price point may be higher than traditional manual telescopes with similar aperture sizes, the Odyssey PRO offers a strong, accessible option blending traditional viewing with modern technology and citizen science opportunities.

The Gskyer Telescope 600x90mm AZ is a solid option for adults interested in astronomy, particularly those who are beginners. With a 90mm aperture and a 600mm focal length, it strikes a good balance for viewing celestial objects and terrestrial landscapes. The fully coated optics lens enhances light transmission, providing clear and vibrant images, which is a significant plus for users wanting to enjoy detailed views of the night sky.

One of its main strengths lies in the variety of included eyepieces—24X, 60X, and 120X magnifications—coupled with a 3x Barlow lens that triples the magnifying power. This flexibility allows users to easily switch between different levels of detail, making it suitable for both casual stargazing and more focused observation. The adjustable aluminum tripod is another highlight; it can be extended from about 31.5 to 49 inches, accommodating various viewing positions and ensuring comfort during prolonged use.

Additionally, the telescope is designed to be user-friendly, requiring no special tools for setup, which is ideal for novices who might feel overwhelmed by more complex models. However, weighing in at 18 pounds, it may not be the most portable option for users who plan to travel frequently or hike to remote viewing locations. The manual focus can also be challenging for some users, especially those who prefer automatic focusing systems. While the optical performance is commendable, astrophotography may be limited due to the manual focus and mounting design.

The HUGERSTAR telescope is a solid choice for adults starting out in astronomy who want a clear and bright view of the night sky. Its 90mm aperture and 800mm focal length deliver good light gathering and sharp images, which is great for observing the moon, stars, and some planets. The fully multi-coated lenses improve image clarity, and the included 10mm and 25mm eyepieces plus a 3X Barlow lens offer a versatile magnification range from 32x to 240x, allowing you to zoom in on details as you get more comfortable with the telescope. The altazimuth (AZ) mount is simple to use for beginners, making it easy to move the telescope up, down, and side to side. The adjustable stainless steel tripod adds stability and flexibility for different viewing positions.

Portability is decent with the included carry bag, although the telescope's length and weight (about 11 pounds) mean it’s better suited for car trips rather than casual backpacking. Extras like the phone adapter allow you to capture images through your smartphone, and the moon filter helps reduce glare for more comfortable lunar viewing. Assembly is straightforward with no tools required, making it accessible for people new to telescopes.

While it may not gather enough light for very deep space objects due to its 90mm aperture and manual focus requiring a learning curve, this refractor telescope is a strong beginner-friendly option with helpful accessories. Those wanting advanced features or extreme portability might look elsewhere.