Listen to 300+ podcasts by best-selling authors, published Wednesday, 4pm EST!

Reflecting and Refracting Telescopes Tips

Read these 5 Reflecting and Refracting Telescopes Tips tips to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. Each tip is approved by our Editors and created by expert writers so great we call them Gurus. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Telescopes tips and hundreds of other topics.

Reflecting and Refracting Telescopes Tips has been rated 3.5 out of 5 based on 1479 ratings and 51 user reviews.
What are the differences between refracting and reflecting telescopes?

The Difference Between Refracting and Reflecting Telescopes

The difference between a refracting and a reflecting telescope is in their optical construction. The refracting telescope uses a system of lenses to refract light rays, while a reflecting telescope uses a system of mirrors to reflect light rays. Reflectors are usually used to view brighter stars and planets.

   
Why is a refracting telescope recommended for beginners?

Refracting Telescope

A refracting telescope is what most people think of when they picture a telescope. It has a long, thin tube with an eyepiece on one end, and sits on a tripod. A refracting telescope is an excellent scope for a beginning astronomer, because it is sharp and allows you to see bright planets and stars that are familiar and easier to find.

   
Why should I purchase a reflecting telescope?

Purchasing a Reflecting Telescope

If you purchase a reflecting telescope you'll be able to look at lower light objects, such a galaxies and nebulae. A reflecting telescope has some pluses in astronomical photography, too.

   
Why should I purchase a reflecting and a refracting telescope?

Reflecting and Refracting Telescope

If you'd like to view many different objects both during the day and at night, it might be wise for you to invest in both a reflecting telescope and a refracting telescope, since you'll be able to view a wider variety of stars, planets, and other objects.

   
Why should I purchase a refractor telescope?

Purchasing a Refractor Telescope

If you purchase a refractor telescope you'll be able to see higher emissions of light, such as planets or stars with more detail and higher contrast than a reflecting telescope. A refractor telescope can also be used for normal daytime observations, too, especially if you use an "image rectifier" that turns the image right-side-up for the viewer.

   
Not finding the advice and tips you need on this Telescopes Tip Site? Request a Tip Now!


Guru Spotlight
Lynda Moultry