You go into a toy store or similar place, and find in the science section a low cost telescope. Now soon as you take a look, you see it says 100's of times of magnification. Great this telescope will let me see what Hubble shows me, but maybe with less quality.



Less quality is an understatement with those cheap brand telescopes. The problem is not there cheapness, but that of luring people in the wrong way. Immediately you put your mind to buy a telescope with the highest magnification.

Very likely it is your first telescope that you are considering to buy, and for that reason, it is important to know the basics of buying your first telescope. Your first time telescope depends on certain factors, such as how much interest you have for astronomy.

To test how far a telescope can see is a pointless exercise, we need to do something. At night go out and take a look into space. You can see objects in space. Now these objects are at various distances. Look into the void, where it is all black. Now you are seeing the ends of the universe!

When a telescope is advertised as simple how far you can see, it causes major problems. In most telescope shops, the sales assistants will often get asked by the first time telescope buyer the question of 'how far can I see with the telescope'.

What is more important with astronomy is to be able to see clear and sharp images. This comes down to the size of the optics and the quality of the optics. Better quality optics will produce better results.

It is true however, that a telescope will increase the range that you can see. To be able to get bigger and better views of the objects in space is determined by the size of your optics. For example with a larger mirror in a Newtonian Reflector, the bigger images you will see.

Buying a telescope that meets your needs is one which needs a bit of research. Often we will see that first telescope in a toy store or an optics store selling binoculars and cameras; however these are not always the best way to go.

Any telescope advertising itself on the basis of how far you can see is usually a telescope not worth investing in. A telescope is a scientific instrument, and an instrument that you can never get bored of. However, for little children or those who have a desire to taste what astronomy can provide without committing to a larger and expensive model, can easily use these telescopes to see the moon with, and some planets.

If you really want to enjoy astronomy, finding a telescope that is sold at dedicated telescope sellers, either online or offline can really help you get a first telescope that can provide many years of enjoyment.