5 Best Reflector Telescopes in 2021

Reflector telescopes can be an excellent option for stargazing. This device uses mirrors to deliver impressive image quality when observing the sky. If you want to see the moon and other celestial bodies, this unit is a great choice.

This article shows the selection of best refracting telescopes in 2021. You’ll learn more about these units to help you find the most suitable product. Keep reading to discover high-quality stargazing products!

What Is the Most Powerful Telescope for Home Use?

The term “home use” refers to using the device for a hobby. That means you don’t need the most powerful unit. Instead, go for a product delivering the best value. You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars on these items. A durable refractor telescope with impressive performance can be affordable.

Do you prefer reflector devices and units with mirrors in the construction? If yes, check out the telescopes listed below.

1. Celestron - PowerSeeker 127EQ

Celestron is a famous telescope brand. Hobbyists and professionals love their units. The former will appreciate the compact-sized PowerSeeker 127EQ. The model got its name for the 127mm aperture. That diameter is large enough to give you a powerful portrayal of planets and other objects you observe.

The equatorial mount requires a small learning curve. This telescope isn’t the lightest unit out there. However, you can still take it when traveling since it’s suitable for outdoor use. Don’t forget to download the bonus software provided. The manufacturer included vital instructions for observing the sky in that tool.

Celestron PowerSeeker 127EQ features two eyepieces and a Barlow lens to strengthen them. The Newtonian design ensures an accurate image portrayal. The aluminum optical coatings promote these components’ durability. The price isn’t that high, and it offers great value for an entry-level telescope.

2. Educational Insights GeoSafari Omega Reflector

If portability is your primary concern, GeoSafari is a smart pick. It’s among the lightest reflector telescopes since it only weighs 10.7 pounds. You can take it to the desired location and mount it easily.

The product suits children and adults. You’ll appreciate the STEM learning support. This telescope can provide invaluable practice. The 700mm scope is surprisingly powerful. It allows you to observe deep-sky and see the planet and Moon from up close. 

The magnification goes up to 350x. This product contains two Barlow lenses and four eyepieces. An achromatic primary mirror will show colors with great accuracy. If you ensure the telescope is stable, the image quality will impress you. The components are durable and will serve well for years.

3. Orion 10015 StarBlast 4.5 Astro

The first thing noticeable about this unit is its color. You won’t find many purple reflector telescopes. But, apart from aesthetics, Orion StarBlast excels in performance. Its optical tube is 18 inches long, and it features a Kellner lens.

The objective diameter is 114 millimeters. The telescope features an altazimuth mount. That makes it suitable for newbies. The focus is manual, and there’s virtually no learning curve for the unit. The setup is also simple. You’ll even receive lithium metal batteries required to run the product.

Orion StarBlast Astro offers a fast f/4 focal ratio. The unit combines it with a 4.5-inch aperture to deliver a clear image of star clusters and other objects. The tabletop base is stable to ensure simple use.

4. Zhumell Z130 Portable Altazimuth Telescope

You don’t need to look at reflector telescopes for sale when you have Zhumell. This brand offers entry-level units in affordable price ranges. Z130 is a portable altazimuth device. In addition, it weighs only 18.6 pounds, which makes it transport-friendly.

The alt-az mount ensures beginners will find it simple to use the unit. The telescope has a 1.25-inch focuser, which you can mix with different accessories. The two eyepieces are 10mm and 25mm. That makes it easy to change magnifications.

Zhumell Z130 got great marks in the reflector telescope reviews. A major reason is the Dobsonian base and stability provider. Sturdiness is vital, especially if you are outside. Also, this is a tabletop device, so you’ll need a suitable surface for it.

5. Sky-Watcher Flextube 200

Dobsonian devices have been popular among amateurs for decades. This unit is among the premium 8-inch reflector telescopes. Its price tag is high but delivers a premium stargazing experience. 

The manufacturer patented the control handles. They provide unmatchable accuracy and simplicity. The device comes with 94% reflective mirrors to ensure superb image quality. You’ll get the finder scope and two wide-angle eyepieces with the unit.

Sky-Watcher Flextube comes with a collapsible design. This innovative feature makes portability easy by taking less room in your trunk. In addition, the unit’s durability is impressive, and parts are of superb quality.

The Main Types of Reflector Telescopes

These devices utilize mirrors to deliver an image. As the light goes through the tube, it hits the primary glass and reflects the secondary unit. Finally, it reaches the eyepiece, and you see a clear picture.

You can find three categories of reflector telescopes in the market. Here is their quick overview:

• Newtonian Design. It was Isaac Newton who perfected this option. He placed a diagonal mirror to ensure the light goes to the sides. That’s where the scientist positioned the eyepiece. This is a frequent choice for small units.
• Cassegrain Telescope. You’ll often find the design in large products. The secondary mirror sends light to the center of the primary unit. The eyepiece is in the back, and that’s the setup’s major characteristic.
• Schmidt-Cassegrain. This is not a classic reflecting unit. Instead, it’s a catadioptric product, which means it mixes mirrors and corrector plates. As a result, these devices deal with aberration well. That contributes to the overall image quality.

Final Thoughts

Reflector telescopes are a long-term investment. The best market units are strong, durable, and maintain performance for years. The experts recommend sticking to premium brands. That ensures you get all the promised features.

If you’d like an alternative to reflector stargazing devices, go with a refractor telescope. It delivers impressive image quality by using lenses to collect light. The choice comes down to your preference. That’s why checking out the available functions carefully will ensure you find a suitable unit!