Starter Telescope For Kids

Why buy a child a telescope?

Children love looking up at the night sky. It fills them with wonder and curiosity. Giving a child a telescope opens up the universe to them and along with a little passed on knowledge can be a wonderful educational tool that will fuel their imagination for years to come.

But buying a telescope is more than buying something to entertain them. It can also be the planting of a seed that will grow into something far greater: a passion.

Whether you are a parent, uncle, aunt, or even a middle/high school teacher looking to challenge pupils, buying a telescope could be the start of an amazing journey.

How do I know which telescope to buy?

There are many factors to take into account when buying a telescope for a child:

  • The age of the child will determine which telescope is appropriate for them. There’s no point in buying a large, heavy scope for a young child who will have difficulty wielding or understanding how to use it.
  • You want the telescope to challenge your child but not be too complex that they are put off using it. Strike a balance between complexity and ease of use that is right for your child.

Here are some options for starter telescopes for different ages and levels of skill.

What are the main features the telescope should include?

When deciding on the best scope for your child, it is important to consider what they will want to look at through it. There are many types of telescope that offer different features. So it’s important to ask yourself what will be important for your child.

The two main things to consider are the telescopes aperture and magnification.

  • Aperture is the most important feature of a telescope. The larger the aperture, the more light will be allowed into the telescope, and as a result, the brighter and clearer the image will be. A large aperture for children is generally important so they get a better view of whatever it is they are looking at.
  • Magnification is how far the telescope will zoom in and will affect how much of the night sky you can see. Ideally any telescope should have both a high magnification and high aperture rating.

What type of telescope should I choose?

There are 3 basic types of telescopes:

Refractor Telescopes

Refractor telescopes are the most common type of telescope available. They comprise of a long tube with a large lens at one end and an eyepiece at the other.

The advantage of a Refractor telescope is that they are simple and easy to use and require little to no maintenance.

The main disadvantage is that they generally have small apertures and are heavier and longer than other types of telescope

Top 3 Beginner Refractor Telescopes

SaleBestseller No. 1
ToyerBee Telescope for Adults & Kids, 70mm Aperture Astronomical Refractor Telescopes for Astronomy Beginners (15X-150X), 300mm Portable Telescope with an Phone Adapter & A Wireless Remote
  • 70mm Large Aperture: The telescope is equipped with a 70mm large aperture objective lens which makes the images brighter and clearer. The bigger the aperture is, the bigger the field of vision will be, so you can see clearer images. Professional telescope can help adults&kids view the planets and moon.
  • 15X-150X Magnification: Our refractor telescope is equipped with two eyepieces (H20mm and H6mm) and a 3X Barlow lens. The 3x Barlow lens trebles the magnifying power of each eyepiece. So you can get magnification from 15X to 150X. Whether watching stars and moon at night or observing planets, ToyerBee telescope is the best helper for kids & adults & astronomy beginners.
  • Adjustable Tripod: With an adjustable tripod, our astronomical telescope’s height can adjust from 13.8’’ to 40.5’’, which can adapt to different view positions. It’s also convenient to be carried when you go out and travel.
  • Wireless Remote: ToyerBee telescope set includes one phone adapter and one wireless camera remote to explore the nature of the world easily through the screen. You can take some amazing photos to share with your friends. The telescope is a great astronomy gift to send the astronomy enthusiasts and 8-12 kids.
  • Satisfaction Service: A 3-year customer service is offered by ToyerBee. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions about our telescopes and service.
SaleBestseller No. 2
Gskyer Telescope 600x90mm AZ Astronomical Refractor Telescope for Adults Astronomy, German Technology Scope
  • 【High Quality Optics】600mm(f/6.7) focal length and 90mm aperture, fully coated optics glass lens with high transmission coatings creates stunning images and protect your eyes.
  • 【High Magnification】Come with three replaceable eyepieces(24X, 60X,120X) and one 3x Barlow lens. 3x Barlow lens trebles the magnifying power of each eyepiece
  • 【Adjustable Tripod】This telescope allows for many different viewing positions with a adjustable aluminum tripod. The height of aluminum tripod can be adjusted from about 31.5-inch to 49-inch
  • 【Easy to Operate】No tools are required for reflecting telescope even for the novice, quick and easy to focus
  • 【What You Get】AZ90600 telescope with 3 eyepieces, our 12-month worry-free support and friendly customer service.
Bestseller No. 3
Telescope for Kids Beginners Adults, 70mm Astronomy Refractor Telescope with Adjustable Tripod - Perfect Telescope Gift for Kids
  • 360mm focal length and 70mm aperture, fully coated optical glass with high transmission coatings telescope which creates crisp images with increased brightness and clarity.
  • Includes two 1.25" eyepieces (K25mm & K10mm) which you can enjoy the magnification from 51X to 128X, And 5X24 Finder Scope can made the starscope telescope locate objects faster.
  • No-tools quick set up and easy find your objects, perfect telescope for kids and astronomy beginners and it’s good gift to send your children.
  • 70mm telescope excels at daytime birding use as well as viewing wildlife, scenery and casual nighttime observing of the Moon
  • Come with adjustable tripod , it allows for any viewing position. Great gifts refractor telescope for kids 8-12, 5-7.

Reflector telescopes

Reflector telescopes use mirrors instead of a lens to capture light. They look similar to Refractor telescopes but have an eyepiece on the side of the tube, not on the end.

The advantage of a Reflector telescope is that they are pretty easy to use but unlike Refractor scopes generally have large apertures for brighter images. They are also quite compact and can be a little cheaper in price.

The disadvantages of a Reflector telescope is that they can require heavy maintenance as the tube is open to the air allowing dust to accumulate on the optics over time.

Top 3 Beginner Reflector Telescopes

SaleBestseller No. 1
Telescope for Adults & Beginner Astronomers - 80mm Aperture 600mm Fully Multi-Coated High Transmission Coatings with AZ Mount Tripod Phone Adapter, Carrying Bag, Wireless Control.
  • Optimum Magnification: Our telescope for kids and adults is quipped with two replaceable excellent-quality eyepieces (25mm and 10mm) for 24X and 60X magnification. 3x Barlow lens trebles the magnifying power of each eyepiece. magnificate moon up to 72 or 180 times. Also with 5x24 finder scope makes locating objects easy.
  • Excellent Quality Optics: This telescope is 600mm(f/6.7) focal length and 80mm aperture, 80mm aperture to capture more light picture and multi-fully high transmission coated all-optical lens enhance image brightness and clarity X
  • Portable And Convenient: Comes with a phone adapter and an adjustable aluminum tripod. Wireless remote control and carrying bag make it easier for you portable and capture amazing images.
  • Easy To Set Up: In order to save your time. Even for novices, no tools are required to set up the telescope. quick and easy to focus. Truly realize a no-tool-set telescope
  • Satisfaction Quality: Lifetime maintenance. If you have any questions about the product and service, please feel free to contact us, we will do our best to help you in 24 hours
SaleBestseller No. 2
Telescope 150EQ Astronomical Reflector Telescopes for Adults, Professional Manual Equatorial Telescope for Kids & Beginners.Comes with 2X Barlow Lens Phone Adapter,Stainless Tripod and Moon Filter
  • 150 mm Large Aperture: Dianfan 150 EQ reflector telescope is 150 mm aperture and 650 mm focal length.Its large aperture provides excellent light-gathering power, ensuring exceptional image quality.This telescope is great for adults and children, astronomical beginners and experienced astronomers
  • New Equatorial Mount: New German Equatorial with dial and slow motion cables.We have pre-assembled it, no need to be assembled by the customer.This reflecting telescope was designed to observe celestial objects, and landscape viewing, the image is inverted.No effect on observing celestial bodies
  • Fully Equipped Telescope: The 150 EQ reflector telescope is a powerful and user-friendly.It features fully-coated glass optics, a full-height tripod, 2 quality eyepieces,a 2x Barlow Lens and a red dot finderscope,a detailed illustrated instructions,a new phone adapter and moon filter
  • Stable Tripod: Its stainless steels tripod provides support and stability.Sturdy and durable construction with a stable mount ensures reliable performance.Easy to set up and use, making it great for both novice and experienced stargazers
  • Quality Service: Believe in Dianfan and choose Dianfan telescope.Reach us if you encounter any problem, we promise you will get a satisfactory answer within hours
Bestseller No. 3
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
  • 150mm Large Aperture: The reflector telescope for adults astronomy has a 650mm focal length and 150mm aperture, providing excellent light-gathering power, ensuring exceptional image quality, perfect for the observation of deep space celestial objectives
  • Excellent Quality Optics: Equipped with two excellent-quality eyepieces (25 mm and 10 mm) and a 2X Barlow lens. Magnificate moon up to 26X or 130X.The red dot finderscope makes locating objects easy. The moon filter will reduce glare and protect your eye
  • Upgraded Equatorial Mount: The reflector telescope features a German equatorial mount with a dial and slow-motion cables for smooth accurate pointing and fast-tracking of celestial objects. You can enjoy the amazing process of tracking the moon's planets
  • Stable Tripod: Comes with an adjustable sturdy stainless steel tripod that offer superior stability, minimizing any unwanted shake. Our telescope for adults can be adjusted to the optimum height for comfortable viewing and enhanced clarity when stargazing
  • Multiple Accessories: Come with 2 high-quality eyepieces, a 2X Barlow lens, a red dot finderscope, a moon filter, a phone adapter, a tripod, and instruction. If you have any questions, please reach us for 24/7 technical support from our team of experts

Catadioptric Telescopes

Catadioptric telescopes are a hybrid of Refractor and Reflector telescopes in that they use a combination of mirrors and lenses.

Because of this they share many of the advantages of both Refractor and Reflector scopes. They are compact and durable, requiring little maintenance. They come with a good range of aperture settings and are easy to use.

The main disadvantage of Catadioptric telescopes is that they are more expensive than other types of telescope.

Other things to look out for

  • Comfort and stability are important factors when choosing a telescope for a child. Make sure the telescope isn’t too big for both the child and the space you have available in your home.
  • Be sure to find out what type of mount the telescope uses. There are two basic types of mounts, altazimuth (AZ) mounts, and equatorial (EQ) mounts. AZ mounts allow for manual adjustments to the telescope. EQ mounts are easier to use and have a slow-motion control that moves the telescope in an arc across the sky.
  • You’ll need a tripod for your telescope to ensure it can be used comfortably.

Top-rated starter telescopes for astrophotography

Bestseller No. 1
SVBONY SV105 Telescope Camera, 1.25 inch IMX307 CMOS Color Electronic Telescope Eyepiece, Planetary Camera for Telescope, Suitable for Astrophotography Beginners
  • The SV105 electronic telescope eyepiece is the basic method for starting astronomical imaging; you can use the SV105 electronic telescope eyepiece to image it; which is more suitable for beginners who like to do astrophotography
  • SV105 telescope camera is suitable for lunar and planetary photography; share the view of bright planets; moon and terrestrial targets; just point the telescope at the moon or planet and record a quick video; you can transfer the real-time view of the telescope to your laptop or PC
  • Plug and play; no driver required; real-time dynamic observation; clear images; SV105 electronic telescope eyepiece compatible with Windows system needs to download Sharpcap Capture; Linux system needs to download AstroDMx Capture; Android system needs to download USB Camera
  • The image processor adopts dark light compensation technology; SV105 electronic telescope eyepiece can greatly improve the image clarity of the astronomy camera under low light conditions
  • Interesting and useful USB eyepiece camera; standard 1.25 inches; threaded M28.5x0.6; can be used with telescope filters; directly connected to the telescope
Bestseller No. 2
SVBONY SV48P Telescope, 90mm Aperture F5.5 Refractor OTA for Adults Beginners, Telescopes for Deep Sky Astrophotography and Visual Astronomy
  • 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
Bestseller No. 3
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
  • 150mm Large Aperture: The reflector telescope for adults astronomy has a 650mm focal length and 150mm aperture, providing excellent light-gathering power, ensuring exceptional image quality, perfect for the observation of deep space celestial objectives
  • Excellent Quality Optics: Equipped with two excellent-quality eyepieces (25 mm and 10 mm) and a 2X Barlow lens. Magnificate moon up to 26X or 130X.The red dot finderscope makes locating objects easy. The moon filter will reduce glare and protect your eye
  • Upgraded Equatorial Mount: The reflector telescope features a German equatorial mount with a dial and slow-motion cables for smooth accurate pointing and fast-tracking of celestial objects. You can enjoy the amazing process of tracking the moon's planets
  • Stable Tripod: Comes with an adjustable sturdy stainless steel tripod that offer superior stability, minimizing any unwanted shake. Our telescope for adults can be adjusted to the optimum height for comfortable viewing and enhanced clarity when stargazing
  • Multiple Accessories: Come with 2 high-quality eyepieces, a 2X Barlow lens, a red dot finderscope, a moon filter, a phone adapter, a tripod, and instruction. If you have any questions, please reach us for 24/7 technical support from our team of experts

And the winner is…

Here are the bestselling beginner and children’s telescopes at the moment.

SaleBestseller No. 1
ToyerBee Telescope for Adults & Kids, 70mm Aperture (15X-150X) Portable Refractor Telescopes for Astronomy Beginners, 300mm Professional Travel Telescope with A Phone Adapter& A Wireless Remote
  • High Magnification: The telescope equipped with 2 eyepieces(H20mm and H6mm) and a 3X Barlow lens. The 3x Barlow lens trebles the magnifying power of each eyepiece, so kids can get magnification from 15X to 150X. Whether it's viewing planets or moon, our telescope is the best helper for adults & kids. It’s a great telescope for adults & kids 8-12 & astronomy beginners.
  • 70mm Large Aperture: The refractor telescope is equipped with a large 70mm objective lens and the lens is fully coated with high transmission coatings. The high transmission optics lens can increase light transmittance and reduce the reflection of light. The bigger the aperture is, the bigger the field of vision will be, so you can see the clearer and brighter images. Professional astromomy telescope can help adults & 8-12 kids view the planets and stars more easily.
  • Wireless Remote & Phone Adapter: Our telescope is equipped with a wireless remote and phone adapter. Just install your mobile phone on the phone adapter, connect to the the eyepieces of the telescope, and use the wireless remote to take the photos. You can take clear and bright pictures easily.
  • Easy to Assemble and Use: The telescope is easy to assemble even for astronomy beginners and kids. We have the detailed installation manual and video installation instructions to teach you. And our telescope is easy to focus, allowing kids to quickly find targets and see clear images. The telescopre is great for 8-12 kids and it’s good gift to send your children.
  • Reliable Service Team: We provide 3 years satisfaction service. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions about our telescopes and service.
SaleBestseller No. 2
Gskyer Telescope, 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refracting Telescope for Kids Beginners - Travel Telescope with Carry Bag, Phone Adapter and Wireless Remote.
  • Quality Optics: 400mm(f/5.7) focal length and 70mm aperture, fully coated optics glass lens with high transmission coatings creates stunning images and protect your eyes. Perfect full positive telescope for astronomers to explore stars and moon.
  • Magnification: Come with two replaceable eyepieces and one 3x Barlow lens.3x Barlow lens trebles the magnifying power of each eyepiece. 5x24 finder scope with mounting bracket and cross-hair lines inside make locating objects easily.
  • Wireless Remote: Free includes one smart phone adapter and one Wireless camera remote to explore the nature of the world easily through the screen and take amazing celestial images.
  • Adjustable Tripod: This telescope allows for many different viewing positions with a adjustable aluminum alloy tripod and a carry bag, the telescope and tripod can fit inside the bag for easy traveling and storage.
  • Satisfaction: TWO-YEAR warranty. And technical support from our team of experts in 24 hours.
Bestseller No. 3
Celticbird Telescope for Adults High Powered, 80mm Aperture 600mm Telescopes for Adults Astronomy, Travel Telescopio for Beginners with AZ Mount, Backpack, Phone Adapter, Moon Filter
  • 【Excellent Optics】Astronomical telescope features 80mm aperture 600mm(f/6.7) focal length-The big aperture can capture more light; high transmission multi-fully coated optical lens can improve light transmittance, reduce the reflection of light. It will bring you more bright and clear images.
  • 【Portable & Stable】Our refractor telescope has a backbag, an adjustable aluminum tripod and an upgraded phone adapter. All accessories can be packed into the bag, which is convenient for you to carry and storage for traveling. The tripod is stable and the height can adjust from 17.7" to 52", which is suitable for adults and kids. With the phone adapter, you can take amazing photos through your phone.
  • 【Easy to Operate】 This telescope is easy to assemble even for astronomy beginners and kids. You can set up easily with the detail installation manual and video. No tools are required. It’s a great astronomy gift telescope for adults, astronomy enthusiasts, beginners and kids 8-12.
  • 【Optimum Magnification】Our telescope for kids and adults is equipped with two replaceable excellent-quality eyepiecesa (20mm and 9mm) for 30X and 66X magnification. A moon filter transmits only 13 percent of the incoming light and improving contrast. Also with 5x24 finderscope, you can locate objects easily. A great option for astronomy lovers to explore the moon, Saturn and Jupiter.
  • 【Satisfaction Service】We provide 3 years satisfaction service. If you have any questions about the product and service, please feel free to contact us to get 24-hour technical support from our expert team. Whether observing moon or viewing planets, our telescope can meet your all needs. It’s a great telescope for adults & 8-12 kids & astronomy beginners.
SaleBestseller No. 4
Telescopes for Adults Astronomy, 80mm Aperture 600mm Refractor Telescope for Kids & Beginners, Compact and Portable Travel Telescopio with Backpack
  • 80mm Large Aperture - EACONN astronomical telescopes have a true 80mm aperture and a fully coated green optics glass lens. The big aperture can capture more light, the high transmission optics lens can improve light transmittance and reduce the reflection of light, so the telescopes for adults astronomy will bring you more bright and clear images.
  • Using Rough Adjustment and Positioning Gimbal - EACONN telescope is equipped with a rough adjustment and positioning gimbal with scale, it can help you easy to adjust the altitude and azimuth. That will more comfortable to help you move wherever you want to point it.
  • All You Need Accessories: Fully loaded with 2 eyepieces (K20mm and K9mm) with 30x-66x magnifications, 5x24 finder scope with a crosshair to locate the objects easily. We have equipped this telescope with a customized mobile phone adapter. Its two end positions are respectively prepared for K20 and K9 eyepieces, which can quickly and accurately locate the eyepiece and telescope. You only need to select the corresponding eyepiece according to the lettering on the adapter to use.
  • Easy to Use and Carry - The telescope is easy to assemble even for astronomy beginners and kids. We have a detailed installation manual and video installation instructions to help you. Our refractor telescope has a bag and an adjustable tripod. All accessories can be packed into the bag, which is convenient for you to carry out. A carrying backpack makes it easier for you to portable and capture amazing images.
  • Incredible Astronomy Gift - Perfect Christmas Gift for astronomy beginners and kids 8-12. Whether Keep it at home observing the moon or viewing planets, or bring this travel telescope on the road for bird watching and landscape viewing, it’s a great gift for beginners and it will enjoy various family fun times.
Bestseller No. 5
NASA Lunar Telescope for Kids – 90x Magnification, includes Two Eyepieces, Tabletop Tripod, and Finder Scope- Kids Telescope for Astronomy Beginners, Space Toys, NASA Gifts (Amazon Exclusive)
  • INSPIRE CURIOSITY – The NASA Lunar Telescope allows your child to see the moon in incredible detail; the perfect gift for girls and boys interested in space, the moon, and astronomy
  • HIGH-QUALITY OPTICAL GLASS AND FINDER SCOPE – This easy-to-use telescope comes with a finder scope, low power, and high-power eyepieces; when used correctly, this combination will allow your child to easily locate the moon and then zoom in for a close-up view
  • TABLETOP TRIPOD & SMOOTH MOUNT SYSTEM – Use the included tripod to steady your Lunar Telescope for optimal viewing, with a smooth mounting system that allows easy scanning of the entire lunar surface
  • PERFECT FOR BEGINNERS – This telescope is easy to assemble and use, making it ideal for young scientists and parents to enjoy together
  • HIGH-QUALITY EDUCATIONAL TOYS - We're proud to make the highest quality hands-on science toys, and all our products are backed by exceptional service. If your experience is less than stellar, let us know and we'll make things right!

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API