Astronomy is an interesting subject. Those who are keen to understand astronomy need one basic thing. That is the telescope. If you are all set to buy one for yourself then it can be a little confusing. So here are the details about the different types of this astronomical instrument.
Reflecting/ Newtonian Telescope
This is one of the most simple types of this instrument. The mirrors are designed in such a way that they will gather and focus light. The use of mirrors will avoid chromatic aberration. Mirrors reflect all wavelengths of light equally. Therefore mirrors will produce better images as compared to lenses. However, there are problems with reflectors. These are comas, collimation, and air currents. These problems will affect the clarity of the image.
Refracting Telescope
In this case, no mirrors are used. Here lenses are used. As compared to reflectors refractors will need less maintenance. You also do not have to collimate your instrument. This is the biggest advantage of refractors. Since the lenses are fixed there is no problem of alignment. These instruments are sturdy. So they will not get damaged easily. Therefore, they are a better option because they will last longer. The images are produced with better contrast as compared to reflectors. These are very user-friendly.
But they do have some drawbacks. These are expensive. You will face the problem of chromatic aberration with refractors. The lenses are heavy. Transportation can be difficult.
Catadioptric Or Compound Telescope
These are the hybrids of reflecting and refracting instruments. They have a short length. They can be transported with ease. In these hybrids, the problem of aberrations is solved to a certain extent. However, you need to collimate the lenses. There can be a problem of obstruction from the secondary mirror too.
Which One Should You Buy?
Now that you know about the different types of instruments you have to decide which one to buy. As you can see every instrument has its own advantages as well as disadvantages. For a beginner, it is better to opt for a reflector. One can also first try using the instrument. You can check them out in planetariums. Here you can actually use the instrument. This will give a better idea. This will make it simpler to choose the best one.
Besides ease of use, there are other factors that you need to consider. These factors are budget, the use of the instrument etc. You must ideally opt for an instrument that is within your budget. Be clear about its use. You also need to consider how often you are going to use. One more thing that you need to keep in mind is transportation. If you are going to carry it from one place to another very often then you need to opt for a portable option.
Buy reflectors or refractor telescopy instruments if you want to observe the stars. But make sure that you consider all the crucial factors before you choose the best option.
