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Best Budget Telescopes for Beginner Astrophotography Under $500

Fact checked by Michael Davis
Last UpdatedNovember 21, 2024
Editor's Choice
1
Celestron – NexImage 10 Solar System Imager – Astronomy Camera for Moon, Sun, and Planets – 10.7 MP Color Camera for Astroimaging for Beginners – High Resolution – ON Semiconductor Technology

Celestron Acquisition LLC

Celestron – NexImage 10 Solar System Imager – Astronomy Camera for Moon, Sun, and Planets – 10.7 MP Color Camera for Astroimaging for Beginners – High Resolution – ON Semiconductor Technology

-17%

9.9Image Quality
9.9Ease of Setup
9.9Build Quality

Why we love it

10.7MP color sensor with advanced noise reduction for sharp planetary imaging
Compatible with standard 1.25-inch telescope eyepieces and includes stacking software
Integrated IR-cut filter and C-thread mount for professional astronomical imaging

Main highlights

Key Features

Advanced imaging system featuring high-resolution sensor, sophisticated software control, and premium aluminum construction for optimal astronomical photography

Ideal for Beginner Astrophotographers

Perfect for newcomers to astrophotography, offering plug-and-play functionality and user-friendly software to capture detailed planetary images

Praised for Professional-Grade Imaging

Users consistently praise the camera's exceptional image quality, robust build, and comprehensive software package for capturing celestial objects

9.9

Exceptional

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Best Value
2
ZWO Seestar S50 Smart Digital Telescope All-in-One Autofocus Portable for Beginners and Experienced Users

ZWO

ZWO Seestar S50 Smart Digital Telescope All-in-One Autofocus Portable for Beginners and Experienced Users

-9%

9.8Worth the Money
9.8User-Friendly
9.6Image Quality

Why we love it

Lightweight 2.5kg all-in-one smart telescope with integrated professional components
Full automatic tracking and targeting system with smartphone control
Professional triplet apochromatic optics with high-quality coating for crisp images

Main highlights

Key Features

Features professional optics, automatic tracking, wireless connectivity, and integrated components in a compact 2.5kg design for superior stargazing experience.

Ideal for Amateur Astronomers and Photography Enthusiasts

Perfect for beginners and enthusiasts seeking hassle-free astrophotography with automatic tracking, stacking, and high-quality image capture capabilities.

Praised for Smart Integration and Ease of Use

Users appreciate the seamless smartphone control, automatic features, and excellent image quality, making astronomy accessible to all skill levels.

9.7

Exceptional

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3
SVBONY SV48P Telescope, 90mm Aperture F5.5 Refractor OTA for Adults Beginners, Telescopes for Deep Sky Astrophotography and Visual Astronomy

SVBONY

SVBONY SV48P Telescope, 90mm Aperture F5.5 Refractor OTA for Adults Beginners, Telescopes for Deep Sky Astrophotography and Visual Astronomy

Main highlights

  • 90 mm aperture; 500mm focal length; compared with 70mm and 80mm; 90mm telescope has more light input and a wider field of view; observe the moon and deep space; which is very suitable for astronomy beginners
  • Double speed focuser; the 2 inches rotatable double speed focuser; gear ratio of 1:10; precise adjustability for smooth operation
  • The focusing mount with metal interface has higher interface accuracy; guarantees the parallelism of the optical axis; and enhances the observation experience
  • Fully multil green coated lens; fitted with achromatic glass for good edge-to-edge viewing; fully multi green coated lens maximize light transmission eliminating false color
  • 360 degrees rotation; convenient for photographic composition and visual observation; loosen the screw; the focus can be rotated 360 degrees; you can achieve astronomical shooting

9.4

Excellent

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4
MEEZAA Telescope, 150EQ Reflector Telescope for Adults Astronomy Beginners, Manual Equatorial Professional Telescopes Astronomy with 2X Barlow Lens, Phone Adapter, Adjustable Tripod and Moon Filter

MEEZAA

MEEZAA Telescope, 150EQ Reflector Telescope for Adults Astronomy Beginners, Manual Equatorial Professional Telescopes Astronomy with 2X Barlow Lens, Phone Adapter, Adjustable Tripod and Moon Filter

-22%

9.4Optical Quality
9.3Stable Setup
9.2Easy Assembly

Why we love it

150mm aperture with 650mm focal length for exceptional deep space viewing
German equatorial mount with smooth tracking capabilities for precise celestial observation
Complete accessory kit including multiple eyepieces and smartphone adapter

Main highlights

Key Features

Advanced reflector telescope featuring large aperture, equatorial mount, and comprehensive accessory package for optimal astronomical viewing experience.

Ideal for amateur astronomers and stargazing enthusiasts

Perfect for beginners and intermediate astronomers who want to explore deep space objects and track celestial bodies.

Praised for its professional-grade optics and stability

Users consistently highlight the telescope's excellent image clarity, sturdy construction, and smooth tracking capabilities for extended observation sessions.

9.2

Excellent

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5
Gskyer Telescope 600x90mm AZ Astronomical Refractor Telescope for Adults Astronomy, German Technology Scope

Gskyer

Gskyer Telescope 600x90mm AZ Astronomical Refractor Telescope for Adults Astronomy, German Technology Scope

-24%

9.3Optical Quality
9.1Easy Assembly
9.1Value for Money

Why we love it

600mm focal length with fully coated optics for superior image clarity and eye protection
Multiple magnification options with three eyepieces and 3x Barlow lens included
Adjustable aluminum tripod extends from 31.5 to 49 inches for versatile viewing positions

Main highlights

Key Features

High-quality 90mm aperture telescope featuring coated optics, multiple magnification options, and sturdy adjustable tripod for optimal viewing experience.

Ideal for Amateur Astronomers and Beginners

Perfect for novice stargazers with tool-free setup, easy operation, and comprehensive accessories to explore celestial objects.

Praised for Versatile Viewing Options

Users appreciate the flexible viewing positions, multiple magnification options, and quick setup that makes astronomical observation accessible.

9.0

Excellent

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6
Telescope 90mm Aperture 900mm - High Precision Adjustment Vertisteel AZ Mount Base, Magnification 45-450x, Wireless Remote, Phone Adapter - Ideal for Astronomy Enthusiasts and Beginners (Black)

Koolpte

Telescope 90mm Aperture 900mm - High Precision Adjustment Vertisteel AZ Mount Base, Magnification 45-450x, Wireless Remote, Phone Adapter - Ideal for Astronomy Enthusiasts and Beginners (Black)

-20%

Main highlights

  • Powerful Optical Performance: This telescope features a 90mm aperture and 900mm focal length refracting design, providing exceptional optical performance that allows you to easily observe deep space objects in the universe.
  • Sturdy and Durable Mount: The sub-black Vertisteel Altazimuth Mount provides stable support, allowing the lens to move smoothly with high precision and maintain accurate positioning.
  • Phone Adapter & Wireless Remote: This telescope not only includes an Digital eyepiece, but also a phone adapter and wireless remote. You can easily capture and share images and videos of your observations on your phone without physically touching the telescope. This allows for a steady and stable observation experience, while also making it convenient to share your discoveries with others.
  • Suitable for Beginners and Professionals: This telescope is suitable for both beginners and professionals. Its user-friendly design and excellent optical performance make it an ideal choice for learning and researching astronomy.
  • Lightweight and Portable: With a compact design, this telescope is easy to carry and set up, allowing you to observe deep space objects at multiple different locations. This makes it an ideal choice for travel and outdoor activities.

8.9

Excellent

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