This can be done manually or by using collimation tools. Reflecting telescopes require more collimation than their refracting counterparts. Always choose a telescope with a focal length between 1000 – 1200mm if you’re a beginner.Ĭollimation is the process of aligning the various components in a telescope to bring the light into the best possible focus.A longer focal length, on the other hand, will increase magnification, making it better for viewing galaxies. A telescope with a shorter focal length is more suited to see a wide-field view of stars.Again, if you’re a beginner buying your first telescope, you should consider the following: It’s expressed as F#, such as f/5 and f10. The focal ratio is measured by dividing the focal length of the aperture by the aperture. Measured in millimeters, the focal length is the distance between your telescope’s primary lens/mirror and the exact point where light rays meet to focus and create the image you eventually see. This refers to the path that light travels through the optical tube of a telescope. It works by using a convex lens to refract (or bend) the light toward the second lens, which is essentially the eyepiece. Refers to the change in speed and direction of light as it passes from one medium to another. Trusted Source Refraction of light - Science Learning Hub Refraction is the bending of light (it also happens with sound, water and other waves) as it passes from one transparent substance into another. The smaller mirror then reflects the light to an eyepiece lens which enlarges or magnifies the image, making it easier to see. Usually, the first mirror is wider and reflects the image in a smaller mirror. The mirrors collect light from objects in space and form an image. Refers to the concept of light striking a concave mirror and then turning in another direction. If the surface is smooth and shiny, like glass, water or polished metal, the light will reflect at the same angle as it hit the surface. Trusted Source Reflection of light - Science Learning Hub Reflection is when light bounces off an object. How does reflection differ from refraction? A telescope’s aperture determines how sharp the image will appear (resolving power) as well as how bright the image appears (light-gathering ability).Īperture is primarily measured in millimeters or inches, and if you’re a beginner, you’ll be looking for a telescope with a higher aperture. Simply put, aperture refers to the diameter of the telescope’s main component, which can be either a lens (refractive) or a mirror (reflecting). Telescope apertureĪperture is the most important factor to consider with any telescope. The larger of the two lenses collects the light from a distant object and amplifies the image so that it’s brighter and, therefore, easier to see. The most basic telescopes have two lenses. Most telescopes work by simply using a few curved mirrors (and/or) lenses to gather and focus light and images from the night sky. Once you know that, it becomes easier to know if you prefer the features of a refractor or a reflecting telescope. Understanding how telescopes work will give you a better indication of what you’d like to view with them. BasicsĪs you begin your search for the best option for your night sky viewing, it’s essential to understand a few telescope basics, especially if you’re a beginner. By the end of our article, you’ll have a better idea of whether you prefer a refractor or reflector telescope for your specific needs. We’ll also take an in-depth look at the pros and cons of both versions. Keep reading as we take a more detailed look at how they compare. Choosing a telescope comes down to two choices-refractor vs a reflector telescope – how do they differ? Is one type better than the other, especially for beginners? And more importantly, how do their different setups affect the way you view different celestial objects?Įssentially, the most significant difference is that refractor telescopes have lenses while reflector telescopes have mirrors. In fact, you might be thinking about investing in your own telescope to get your own glimpse of the stars. The recent buzz surrounding the launch of the Webb telescope has inspired a lot of people to look at the universe in a completely different light. We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page.
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