Choosing the Best Refractor Telescope

A refractor telescope has a glass lens at the front that bends light as it passes through. The best refractor telescopes use a long-range focal length to minimize the chance of chromatic aberration. Achromatic telescopes are more prone to discoloration than apochromatic telescopes because the red and blue wavelengths are not in line with the green ones.

Difference Between Apochromatic and Achromatic Telescopes

Achromatic refractors bend light at slightly different angles as it passes through a glass lens. Color wavelengths in achromatic telescopes don’t all align due to the angles, which creates an opportunity for discoloration (chromatic aberration). The green wavelengths extend past the red and blue ones and focus on a different area at the back of the telescope. Achromatic telescopes are more suitable for star gazing as less light is present, so there’s a limited chance of discoloration taking place. Lenses created with three to four glass elements are apochromatic, and an apochromatic refractor produces high-resolution images with minimal chance of discoloration. Using solar telescopes with apochromatic lenses produces detailed views of the sun, and attachments like webcams for computerized telescopes provide high-resolution results for safe viewing.

Refractor and Reflector Telescopes

Some Vivitar refractor telescopes come with options for terrestrial and astrological viewing, microscope kits, and sun shields. With catadioptric (Cassegrain) telescopes, you can view true-to-life images day or night. Catadioptric telescopes come in two main types, Schmidt-Cassegrain and Maksutov. Most Celestron refractor telescopes come in both Catadioptic types, in 90mm options to give you a superior viewing experience. Maksutov telescopes are easier to set up and transport because they are lightweight, making them popular with hikers and campers. Telescopes that use reflector (Newtonian) lenses are an optimal choice if you enjoy star gazing or watching meteor showers. While reflector telescopes are bulkier than refractor telescopes, they provide you with a similar viewing experience in the right conditions.

Choosing Accessories for Your Telescope

Purchase additional telescope eyepieces to increase your telescope’s magnification ability, and choose from low or medium power eyepieces. Select an eyepiece with exit pupils no larger than 6mm for optimum results. Eyepieces are one of the most important parts of a telescope; using high-quality eyepieces will increase your telescope’s range and capability. Use adapters and remotes, get additional tubes and lenses, or pick mounting accessories to enhance your viewing experience. When it comes time to store your telescope, use a durable hard case to protect glass lenses and tubes from damage.

B&H Photo and Video carries Vivitar, Celestron, and Bushnell refractor telescopes for superior viewing with a low risk of color distortion. Browse through kits made to view specific planets, and find adjustable tripods and carrying bags to build the ultimate telescope system.