The first refracting telescope goes back to the 1600s when Galileo looked into space. Now, even amateur telescopes come equipped with computer controls and advanced camera accessories. Observatories and domes also highlight the products available for the serious amateur or professional.

Refracting and reflecting telescopes open up the universe with all its beauty and wonder. Good scopes are affordable in today’s marketplace. When buying a telescope think of the following:

1. Know the accessories you’ll need by thinking of the possibilities that interest you, such as astrophotography.

2. Look at the cost differences between reflecting and refracting telescopes in relation to your plans.

3. Consider housing larger space telescopes in cost-effective domes and observatories.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy a refracting telescope with many price levels available

When buying with aperture in mind, refractor telescopes cost more than reflectors. Effective entry-level refractors typically start with 3-inch lens.

I recommend: Buy a refractor telescope online from a wide selection of models, some with bundled options, at OpticsPlanet. Go to Netshops to buy online entry level to professional brand name telescopes.

Find reflecting telescopes for sale with lots of options

For serious viewing, the Schmidt-Cassegrain is the most popular type of telescope. The Newtonian also gets good reviews.

I recommend: Choose reflecting space telescopes from several pages of models with low to high price ranges at Scope City. See the nice selection of space telescopes with online ordering at Orion Telescopes & Binoculars.

Locate used telescopes for sale from dealers

Buying from the classifieds often means you're dealing with an individual. The companies listed here back up their equipment because it's their line of business. Inventory changes, but the current telescopes include Meade, Celestron and other brand names.

I recommend: Get a used telescope that’s guaranteed at Astro Parts Outlet Used Telescopes by phoning the number on the page. Click “Please click to view my entire inventory catalog” to see the current offerings. Go to Hands On Optics to see what’s in stock, with prices; then click “Order Form” or call the toll-free number on the page for further information. Get demo or floor units that include professional telescopes at Woodland Hills Camera & Telescopes with online ordering.

Order a professional space telescope for serious star gazing

The price goes up with these telescopes manufactured with large mirrors and lenses, quality construction and many standard accessories.

I recommend: Get a professional telescope built to your specifications with mirrors 400 mm to 6 meters in diameter at LOMO America; see contact information on the bottom of the page. Buy a telescope online at Oceanside Photo & Telescope from a selection that includes 16-inch Meade, 7-inch APM refractor and other brands, or click “Telescopes,” then “Telescopes by Price,” and select a price range with more expensive telescopes available.

Get an observatory for your professional telescope

Stop setting up and taking down your large astronomy telescope or keeping it inside when the weather doesn't cooperate. Consider a dome to house your scope.

I recommend: Check out the pricing and sizes of affordable domes and buildings at Explora Dome; click “Contact Us” for further information. Buy a complete observatory made of marine grade fiberglass from Clear Skys with 8.5-foot cylinder and 24-inch slot opening. House your professional telescope under an Ash-Dome with domes ranging from 8 to 30 feet. Contact Ash Manufacturing from the information given on the page.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  One of the most important aspects of a telescope is aperture, not power. When looking at telescopes for sale get the largest lens or mirror that your budget allows.
• •  Look for telescopes that use standard size 1.24-inch eyepieces. Some scopes come with a smaller 0.965-inch eyepiece that lowers the price, but for best results go standard.