Astrophotography blends science with art, allowing us to capture the hidden beauty of the universe in ways the naked eye can never see. From faint galaxies millions of light-years away to the intricate details of the Moon’s craters, the right telescope can transform your passion for stargazing into stunning celestial photographs.
Unlike visual astronomy, astrophotography places extra demands on your gear—long exposures, precise tracking, and the ability to gather maximum light without distortion are all essential. That’s why choosing the best telescope for astrophotography is a critical first step for anyone who wants to turn the night sky into breathtaking images.
Today’s market offers a wide variety of telescopes designed to suit different skill levels and imaging goals. Compact apochromatic refractors excel at producing sharp, color-accurate images with minimal chromatic aberration, making them a favorite among beginners and seasoned imagers alike.
On the other hand, larger reflectors and catadioptric designs deliver unmatched aperture for deep-sky photography, revealing nebulae and star clusters in incredible detail. With modern advancements like computerized equatorial mounts and user-friendly interfaces, capturing professional-quality astrophotographs is more achievable than ever before.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best telescopes for astrophotography, carefully selected based on optical performance, stability, portability, and overall value. Whether you’re an entry-level photographer setting up your first rig or an advanced hobbyist chasing deep-sky wonders, you’ll find a telescope here that matches your vision and budget.
5 Best Telescope for Astrophotography
1.Gskyer Telescope 600×90 mm AZ Refractor
The Gskyer Telescope 600×90 mm AZ Refractor has earned its place among Amazon’s best-selling beginner telescopes for good reason. Designed for both newcomers and casual stargazers, it combines solid optical performance, straightforward setup, and useful accessories in one affordable package.
With a 90 mm aperture and a 600 mm focal length, this refractor offers enough light-gathering power to observe planets, the Moon, and even some brighter deep-sky objects. Its fully coated optics ensure clear, high-contrast images while protecting your eyes during extended sessions.
What makes the Gskyer stand out is its accessibility. Many entry-level telescopes compromise on either build quality or ease of use, but this model provides a good balance. The adjustable tripod adds flexibility for different viewing positions, and the inclusion of three eyepieces plus a 3x Barlow lens gives beginners multiple magnification options without needing extra purchases. Whether you’re setting it up in the backyard for a family night or taking it on a camping trip, this telescope promises a user-friendly experience with minimal learning curve.
Key Specifications
- Aperture: 90 mm
- Focal Length: 600 mm (f/6.7)
- Optics: Fully coated glass lens with high transmission coatings
- Eyepieces Included: 3 (24x, 60x, 120x)
- Barlow Lens: 3x (triples magnification of each eyepiece)
- Mount Type: Altazimuth (AZ)
- Tripod: Adjustable aluminum, height range 31.5–49 inches
- Warranty: 12-month support and customer service
Product Features
- High-Quality Optics
The 90 mm aperture paired with a 600 mm focal length delivers sharp, bright images of the Moon, planets, and some deep-sky objects. The fully coated lens enhances light transmission and reduces glare, ensuring more contrast and eye protection during long sessions. - Flexible Magnification Options
With three included eyepieces (24x, 60x, 120x) and a 3x Barlow lens, users can experiment with a wide range of magnifications. The Barlow lens significantly boosts viewing power, making it possible to see planetary details like Jupiter’s cloud bands or Saturn’s rings with more clarity. - Adjustable Tripod for Comfort
The aluminum tripod offers stability and adjustable height between 31.5 and 49 inches. This allows comfortable viewing for both children and adults, as well as different angles for various celestial targets. - Beginner-Friendly Operation
No tools are required for setup, making it quick and intuitive to assemble. Focusing is straightforward, even for novices, so you can spend more time observing and less time struggling with equipment. - Complete Accessory Package
The package includes the AZ90600 telescope, three eyepieces, a 3x Barlow lens, an adjustable tripod, and 12 months of customer support. It’s a ready-to-go kit that saves beginners from having to purchase additional accessories immediately.
Pros
- Clear, bright images with a 90 mm aperture and coated optics
- Multiple eyepieces and a 3x Barlow lens included for flexible magnification
- Lightweight, portable design suitable for backyard or travel use
- Adjustable tripod accommodates different viewing angles and heights
- Easy, tool-free assembly perfect for beginners
Cons
- High magnifications can be challenging to stabilize on the included tripod
2.Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ
Astrophotography and stargazing have never been more accessible, thanks to innovations that combine traditional telescope power with modern smartphone technology. The Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ is a telescope designed to bridge that gap, making celestial exploration simple even for beginners.
Unlike traditional scopes that require prior experience in star-hopping or using star maps, this model leverages your smartphone to guide you across the night sky. With just a docked phone and the StarSense Explorer app, users can locate and view celestial objects in seconds. This seamless combination of optics and smart navigation transforms the telescope into an easy-to-use yet powerful tool for amateur astronomers and families.
Beyond its simplicity, the StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ also offers performance-driven features. With a generous 130mm Newtonian reflector aperture, high-reflectivity coatings, and smooth manual controls, it delivers crisp, detailed views of planets, nebulae, galaxies, and star clusters. Whether observing from your backyard in a city or traveling to darker skies, this telescope offers versatility and precision for both new and seasoned skywatchers.
Product Features
- Smartphone-Powered Sky Tour
Beginners can jump right in by docking their phone and launching the StarSense Explorer app. The system transforms the telescope into a guided sky tour, leading you directly to stars, planets, and deep-sky objects with on-screen arrows. - Patented StarSense Technology
Unlike generic star chart apps, Celestron’s patented technology uses real-time sky recognition. It analyzes star patterns overhead to pinpoint your telescope’s exact orientation, ensuring unmatched accuracy in locating objects. - Curated Targets Based on Your Location
The app automatically suggests the best celestial objects to view at any given time. From bright planets like Jupiter and Saturn to galaxies and nebulae, it curates an optimized stargazing experience tailored to your location. - Manual Altazimuth Mount with Slow-Motion Controls
The telescope is equipped with a smooth manual alt-azimuth mount and dual-axis slow-motion controls. These allow precise object tracking, ensuring that planets and stars stay centered in your field of view. - 130mm Reflector with High-Quality Optics
With a 5-inch Newtonian reflector and high-reflectivity coatings, the StarSense Explorer provides bright, sharp, and vivid images. It excels in showing lunar details, planetary features like Saturn’s rings, and deep-sky wonders like the Orion Nebula. - Reliable Warranty and Support
Backed by Celestron’s reputation, the telescope comes with a 2-year US warranty and dedicated support from a team of experts, giving buyers confidence in their investment.
Key Specifications
- Optical Design: Newtonian Reflector
- Aperture: 130mm (5 inches)
- Focal Length: 650mm
- Mount Type: Manual Altazimuth with dual-axis slow-motion controls
- App Integration: StarSense Explorer app (iOS & Android compatible)
- Warranty: 2-Year US Warranty
Pros
- Smartphone integration makes it beginner-friendly
- Accurate patented sky recognition technology
- Large 130mm aperture for detailed views
- Smooth tracking with slow-motion controls
- Curated targets ensure engaging sessions
- Reliable warranty and expert support
Cons
- Requires smartphone use, limiting offline operation
3.Celestron NexStar 130SLT Computerized Reflector
The Celestron NexStar 130SLT Computerized Reflector is designed for those who want both convenience and powerful performance in their stargazing experience. Unlike traditional manual telescopes, this model integrates advanced computerized technology, making it easy for beginners and intermediate astronomers to explore the universe with precision. With a robust 130mm Newtonian reflector design, it collects ample light for observing planets, galaxies, nebulae, and even star clusters in remarkable detail.
Its standout feature is the fully computerized GoTo mount, which gives users access to a massive database of over 4,000 celestial objects. Whether you’re interested in viewing Saturn’s rings, Jupiter’s cloud bands, or the distant glow of the Andromeda Galaxy, the telescope can locate and track objects automatically. This functionality makes it a perfect balance between simplicity and advanced astronomy.
Adding to its appeal, the NexStar 130SLT is portable and easy to set up, making it ideal for backyard use, camping trips, or dark-sky excursions. Combined with free Starry Night software and Celestron’s legendary customer support, it’s a telescope that blends high-quality optics with modern-day convenience.
Key Specifications
- Optical Design: Newtonian Reflector
- Aperture: 130mm
- Database: 4,000+ celestial objects (stars, galaxies, nebulae, and more)
- Mount: Computerized Altazimuth with GoTo functionality
- Eyepiece Compatibility: Works with 2-inch eyepieces
- Software: Includes free Starry Night astronomy software
- Portability: Compact and lightweight for easy transport
- Warranty: 2-Year Warranty + Unlimited U.S.-based technical support
Product Features
- Computerized Object Location and Tracking
The NexStar 130SLT features Celestron’s GoTo system, allowing the telescope to automatically locate and track objects from its 4,000-object database. This removes the guesswork of manual alignment, making it ideal for beginners and efficient for seasoned users. - Large 130mm Aperture Newtonian Reflector
With its wide 130mm aperture, the telescope gathers enough light to provide bright, sharp views of the Moon, Saturn’s rings, Jupiter’s storms, and distant galaxies. It offers a clear advantage over smaller entry-level telescopes. - Compact and Portable Design
Weighing light and designed for portability, the NexStar 130SLT is an excellent companion for travel. Its quick setup ensures you can start observing within minutes, whether in your backyard or at a remote stargazing site. - Free Starry Night Software
This telescope includes a free download of Starry Night software, one of the most advanced interactive astronomy tools. It enhances the stargazing experience by allowing users to simulate the night sky on their computer. - Reliable Support and Warranty
Backed by Celestron’s two-year warranty and expert technical support, the NexStar 130SLT provides peace of mind and long-term value, ensuring you have guidance whenever needed.
Pros
- Fully computerized GoTo mount with 4,000+ celestial objects
- 130mm aperture provides excellent light-gathering capability
- Compact, portable, and easy to assemble
- Compatible with 2-inch eyepieces for versatile viewing
- Includes free Starry Night software for enhanced exploration
- Backed by 2-year warranty and U.S.-based support
Cons
- Requires power supply or batteries for GoTo system
4.Celestron NexStar 8SE Telescope
The Celestron NexStar 8SE Telescope is a flagship model in Celestron’s computerized telescope line, combining classic design with cutting-edge technology. Recognized worldwide for its iconic orange optical tube, the 8SE is a favorite among both amateur astronomers seeking to expand their viewing capabilities and advanced stargazers who want a portable yet powerful scope.
At the heart of the NexStar 8SE is an 8-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain optical system, which strikes an ideal balance between aperture size, light-gathering power, and portability. This makes it versatile enough to observe the Moon’s craters, Jupiter’s swirling cloud bands, Saturn’s rings, and even faint deep-sky objects like galaxies and nebulae.
What sets this telescope apart is its fully computerized GoTo mount, paired with the NexStar+ hand controller. With a database of over 40,000 celestial objects, the system automatically locates and tracks your target with remarkable precision, eliminating the need for manual adjustments or charts. Setup is made even easier by SkyAlign technology, which allows you to align the scope in minutes by simply centering three bright objects in the night sky.
For those interested in expanding their astronomy journey, the 8SE is compatible with a wide range of Celestron accessories, including StarSense AutoAlign, SkyPortal Wi-Fi modules, and GPS upgrades. Backed by a 2-year warranty and robust U.S.-based customer support, the NexStar 8SE offers not only outstanding performance but also peace of mind for long-term use.
Key Specifications
- Optical Design: Schmidt-Cassegrain
- Aperture: 203mm (8″)
- Focal Length: 2032mm
- Focal Ratio: f/10
- Mount Type: Fully Automated GoTo Altazimuth with NexStar+ Hand Control
- Database: 40,000+ celestial objects
- Alignment System: SkyAlign Technology
- Portability: Compact, lightweight optical tube on single-arm fork mount
- Warranty: 2-Year U.S. Warranty + unlimited expert support
Product Features
- Advanced Tech Meets Iconic Design
The NexStar 8SE blends modern computerized technology with Celestron’s legendary orange tube design. This combination provides both familiarity and innovation, making it perfect for stargazers who want to upgrade from smaller manual scopes. - 8-Inch Schmidt-Cassegrain Optics
With its 203mm aperture, the telescope delivers outstanding light-gathering capability. Lunar features appear razor-sharp, planets like Saturn and Jupiter reveal remarkable detail, and deep-sky objects such as the Andromeda Galaxy and Hercules Globular Cluster become visible even in moderately dark skies. - Fully Automated GoTo Mount
The computerized mount, controlled via the NexStar+ hand controller, makes stargazing intuitive. Once aligned, it automatically slews to your chosen object and tracks it seamlessly, so you can spend more time observing and less time searching. - SkyAlign Technology
SkyAlign simplifies setup dramatically. Even beginners can align the telescope quickly by centering three bright objects, without needing prior knowledge of star names or constellations. This ensures you’re observing within minutes of setup. - Expandability with Accessories
The NexStar 8SE is compatible with Celestron’s latest add-ons, including Wi-Fi control modules for wireless navigation, GPS accessories for pinpoint location accuracy, and StarSense AutoAlign for even faster automated setup. This flexibility makes it a future-proof investment. - Warranty & Customer Support
Celestron backs the NexStar 8SE with a 2-year U.S. warranty and unlimited access to expert support. This gives buyers confidence knowing they’re supported by a company with over six decades of experience in telescope innovation.
Pros
- Large 8-inch aperture offers excellent light gathering for planets and deep-sky objects.
- Fully computerized GoTo mount with 40,000+ object database.
- Quick and easy alignment using SkyAlign technology.
- Compact, portable design despite its power.
- Expandable with accessories like Wi-Fi, GPS, and StarSense AutoAlign.
- Backed by strong warranty and expert support.
Cons
- Higher price point compared to beginner scopes.
5.SVBONY SV550 APO Triplet Refractor (80 mm F/6)
The SVBONY SV550 APO Triplet Refractor (80mm F/6) is a compact yet powerful optical tube assembly designed specifically for astrophotographers and dedicated stargazers. With its apochromatic triplet optics and carefully engineered design, this telescope stands out as a versatile tool for both visual observation and astrophotography. It is particularly well-suited for capturing Messier catalog favorites like M42 (Orion Nebula) and M45 (Pleiades Cluster) with excellent clarity and minimal color distortion.
Unlike standard doublet or single-ED refractors, the SV550 uses a triplet apochromatic design, incorporating advanced ED glass to drastically reduce chromatic aberration, especially in the blue spectrum where most imaging distortions occur. Combined with a high-quality dual-speed focuser and lightweight magnesium alloy construction, this refractor offers both portability and precision, making it a smart investment for anyone looking to upgrade their imaging setup.
Whether you’re a beginner stepping into astrophotography or an experienced observer seeking a reliable travel-friendly APO, the SVBONY SV550 provides a balance of performance, build quality, and affordability in its class.
Product Features
1. APO Triplet Optical Design
The SV550 is built with a three-element air-spaced lens system—including one S-FPL51 extra-low dispersion (ED) glass element and two correction glass elements. This configuration virtually eliminates chromatic aberration, delivering crisp and color-accurate images. This is a major upgrade over single-ED refractors, particularly noticeable in astrophotography where star colors remain sharp and true.
2. Bright, High-Contrast Imaging
Thanks to its 80mm aperture and F/6 focal ratio, the SV550 gathers ample light while maintaining a wide field of view. This makes it excellent for capturing nebulae, star clusters, and galaxies. The improved contrast ensures deep-sky objects pop against the background sky, giving your astrophotography more definition.
3. Precision Dual-Speed Focuser
Equipped with a 2.5-inch magnesium alloy dual-speed focuser (with a 1:10 fine adjustment), the SV550 allows for precise focusing control. This is critical when using full-frame cameras, as the focuser design helps reduce vignetting and ensures even illumination across the image field.
4. Anti-Reflection & Extinction Measures
SVBONY designed this refractor with multiple light barriers inside the focusing seat and barrel, plus four extinction baffles. These measures reduce stray light and reflections, maximizing contrast and improving the quality of long-exposure astrophotography.
5. Compact and Lightweight Build
Weighing less than larger APOs, the magnesium alloy construction provides durability without adding unnecessary bulk. Its portable size makes it easy to carry to remote dark-sky locations, ensuring astrophotographers can travel light without compromising performance.
Key Specifications
- Optical Design: APO Triplet Refractor
- Aperture: 80mm
- Focal Ratio: f/6
- Glass Type: 1x S-FPL51 ED + 2x correction glass
- Focuser: 2.5-inch dual-speed (1:10 fine adjustment)
- Barrel Design: Air-spaced triplet with anti-reflective extinction baffles
- Best For: Astrophotography and wide-field visual observation
Pros
- High-quality triplet apochromatic design reduces chromatic aberration.
- Bright and wide-field views with 80mm f/6 optics.
- 2.5-inch dual-speed focuser ensures precision focusing.
- Lightweight and portable magnesium alloy build.
- Effective light extinction system for higher contrast imaging.
Cons
- As an OTA (optical tube only), it requires additional accessories (mount, tripod, camera adapters) for full use.
Quick Comparison Table
| Telescope Model | Aperture Size | Key Benefit | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gskyer 600×90 mm AZ Refractor | 90 mm | Easy setup, portable, beginner-friendly | Entry-level astrophotography |
| Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ | 130 mm | Smartphone-assisted targeting | Guided celestial alignment |
| Celestron NexStar 130SLT | 130 mm | Affordable GoTo automation | Intermediate deep-sky users |
| Celestron NexStar 8SE | 203 mm (8″) | Large aperture, computerized mount | Serious deep-sky imaging |
| SVBONY SV550 APO Refractor (80 mm) | 80 mm | High optical quality and sharp focus | Dedicated astrophotography upgrades |
Also Read: 6 Best Telescope for Viewing Planets and Galaxies
Factor to consider when choosing the Best Telescope for Astrophotography.
1. Aperture
Aperture is the diameter of the telescope’s main lens or mirror. A larger aperture collects more light, which is crucial for capturing faint deep-sky objects such as nebulae or galaxies. However, bigger isn’t always better—large telescopes can be heavy, harder to mount, and less portable. For beginners, a smaller but high-quality refractor often provides the best balance of clarity and usability.
2. Focal Length and Focal Ratio
The focal length determines your telescope’s field of view. Shorter focal lengths are ideal for wide-field astrophotography, such as capturing the Milky Way, while longer focal lengths excel at imaging smaller, distant objects like planets. The focal ratio (f/number) affects exposure times: faster scopes (low f/ratio) require shorter exposures, making them excellent for beginners or those working without advanced guiding systems.
3. Optical Design
Different telescope types have strengths and weaknesses for astrophotography:
- Refractors (APO/ED) – Compact, low-maintenance, excellent color correction, and sharp images with minimal distortion.
- Reflectors (Newtonian) – Large apertures at affordable prices but require more maintenance and collimation.
- Catadioptric (SCT/Mak) – Versatile, good for planetary imaging and deep-sky work, but heavier and often more expensive.
4. Mount Compatibility
A stable mount is just as important as the telescope itself. For astrophotography, an equatorial mount (preferably motorized or computerized) allows precise tracking of celestial objects as the Earth rotates. Without accurate tracking, long-exposure images will suffer from star trailing and blur. Always budget for the mount as a key part of your setup.
5. Portability and Setup
If you plan to travel to dark-sky sites, portability matters. Lightweight refractors and compact catadioptric telescopes are easier to transport and set up compared to bulky reflectors. On the other hand, a permanent backyard observatory setup might allow you to handle larger, heavier instruments.
6. Accessories and Camera Compatibility
Consider whether the telescope supports the accessories you need—field flatteners, focal reducers, or autoguiders can dramatically improve image quality. Compatibility with DSLR or dedicated astronomy cameras is also a must for a smooth imaging workflow.
Best Telescope for Astrophotography: FAQs
1. What type of telescope is best for astrophotography?
Apochromatic (APO) refractors are often considered the best choice for beginners because they produce sharp, color-accurate images with minimal distortion. However, advanced users may prefer larger reflectors or catadioptric designs for deep-sky imaging due to their greater light-gathering power.
2. Do I need a special mount for astrophotography?
Yes. A stable equatorial mount with motorized or computerized tracking is essential. It compensates for Earth’s rotation, keeping stars sharp during long exposures. Without it, your photos will show star trails instead of pinpoint stars.
3. Can I use a regular telescope for astrophotography?
You can, but results may be limited. Visual telescopes aren’t always designed for the precision needed in imaging. Many lack the proper focal ratio, field flatteners, or stability for long-exposure astrophotography. Choosing a scope built with imaging in mind will save frustration.
4. Is aperture or focal length more important?
Both matter, but for beginners, focal length and focal ratio usually play a bigger role. A shorter focal length and faster focal ratio (low f/number) make wide-field astrophotography easier and reduce exposure times. Larger apertures are excellent for faint deep-sky targets but require heavier mounts and more advanced setups.
Conclusion
Best Telescope for Astrophotography depends on the balance between your goals, budget, and level of experience. There isn’t a single perfect scope for everyone beginners may achieve more success with a lightweight apochromatic refractor that’s easy to set up and delivers crisp, color-accurate images, while advanced astrophotographers might lean toward larger reflectors or versatile catadioptric designs for deep-sky detail.
What matters most is pairing the right telescope with a stable equatorial mount, quality optics, and compatible accessories. Together, these factors make a bigger difference than aperture size alone, ensuring your images stay sharp during long exposures and your workflow remains smooth.
Astrophotography is a journey, and your first telescope is the gateway to capturing the beauty of the night sky. With the right choice, you’ll be well-equipped to photograph everything from the sweeping arms of the Milky Way to the fine details of Saturn’s rings. The models in this guide represent some of the finest tools available today—pick the one that best fits your vision, and you’ll be ready to turn the universe into a canvas for your camera.