5 Alternatives to the 80mm Aperture 600mm Refractor Telescope

Usogood 10X42 Monocular Telescope - Priced at £27.99, this compact monocular is highly portable and features BAK4 prisms for excellent light transmission. While it doesn’t offer the same level of detail as a refractor telescope, it's perfect for quick stargazing or bird watching. If you're looking for something lightweight and easy to carry on hikes or camping trips, this is a great choice. However, serious astronomy enthusiasts may find it lacking in performance compared to a dedicated telescope.

Celestron 31045 AstroMaster 130EQ Newtonian Reflector Telescope - At £275.00, this telescope boasts a larger 130mm aperture, allowing for better light-gathering capabilities and clearer images of celestial objects. It’s a step up from the 80mm refractor, making it suitable for those who want to explore deeper into the night sky. However, it is heavier and requires a bit more setup. This option is ideal for users who are ready to commit to a more serious astronomy hobby while still staying somewhat budget-friendly.

Celestron 31145 NexStar 130SLT Portable Computerised Newtonian Reflector Telescope - For £499.00, this computerised telescope offers advanced features like a quick-release fork-arm mount and comes with 'Starry Night' software for guided stargazing. Its 130mm aperture delivers impressive views, but its price point is significantly higher than the original model. This is perfect for those who want a user-friendly experience with automated tracking, making it easier to locate celestial objects. However, beginners may find it overwhelming and might prefer simpler options to start.

Celestron 31042 AstroMaster 114EQ Newtonian Reflector Telescope - At £249.00, this model features a 114mm aperture, providing a good balance of performance and price. It’s easier to transport than larger telescopes and still captures a decent amount of light for observing planets and star clusters. While it’s not as powerful as the 130EQ, it’s a solid choice for beginners who want a step up from the 80mm refractor without breaking the bank. This option is great for those who want a reliable telescope for casual observing.

Celestron 22087 NexStar 90SLT-Mak Portable Computerised Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope - Priced at £349.49, this telescope features a 90mm aperture and is compact and portable, making it easy to set up in various locations. It offers excellent optics for planetary viewing and is a good choice for those interested in astrophotography. However, the smaller aperture means it won’t collect as much light as the others, which could limit deep-sky observations. This is ideal for those who want a versatile telescope for both planets and the occasional deep-sky object but are willing to compromise on aperture size.