Breakdown: The Different Types Of Telescopes

Essentially, as a beginner - you will need to decide between three basic types of Telescopes. These are, the Reflecting Telescope, the Refracting Telescope, and a hybrid of the two which is referred to as a Compound or Catadioptric Telescope.

The Different Types Of Telescopes

Reflector

The Reflector Telescope was invented by English physicist and mathematician Sir Isaac Newton in 1668. He was a key leader in the Scientific Revolution of the 17th Century.

In order to form an image, light is reflected between a primary concave mirror and a flat secondary mirror. At Red Carpet Telescopes, we believe that Reflectors are the BEST value Telescopes for Beginners.

It is worth noting that Reflector Optics will require re-alignment and cleaning. Additionally, this type of Telescope cannot be used for land viewing, as all objects are upside down.

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Refractor

The Refractor is the earliest type of optical Telescope. They first appeared around 1620 in the Netherlands, Invented by lensmaker Hans Lippershey.

A refracting telescope is an optical Telescope that uses a lens system to produce high clarity images. The Optics have fixed alignment and low maintenance.

This type of Telescope can be used for land object viewing.

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Catadioptric

Catadioptric Telescopes are a hybrid optical Telescope that utilizes mirrors and lenses. Essentially, principles and elements of both Reflectors and Refractors are combined to form the Catadioptric Telescope. 

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If you're looking to purchase your first Telescope, check out our Blog post How To Choose Your First Telescope to learn more. 

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