Amateur meteor observers typically watch the skies without any equipment. In fact, we also suggest the novices to start slow, using only their naked eyes and paper for records.
However, as you progress and become better at meteor observing, you will naturally realize that equipment is necessary. For those purposes, we compiled a list of top 5 telescopes that are the best for telescopic meteor observations.
Have a look at what we have for you.
Gskyer AZ Astronomical Refractor Telescope
If you want to start your meteor observation in style, you should go with the best. Gskyer, one of the most renowned brands in the telescope manufacture, is perfect for professional and amateur uses. If you are a complete beginner, this AZ Astronomical Refractor model can serve you well as you gain skills. The optical tube on this telescope has an aluminium alloy, so it has an excellent duration.
Ease of use is even higher thanks to its optical power and image erect prism. A stainless-steel tripod and altazimuth mount help with stable mounting, so it is quite easy to set up and use. It also has multi-coated blue-film that is anti-reflection to help with image distortion. Unfortunately, this kind of quality is expensive, so not many amateur observers can afford to purchase it right off the bat.
Orion 09007 SpaceProbe 130ST Equatorial Reflector Telescope
Telescopes collect light, and Orion’s Orion 09007 SpaceProbe 130ST model does it best. The 5.1-inch aperture allows you to watch some of the most magnificent celestial phenomena out there. For instance, star clusters, distant galaxies, nebulas will be in the palm of your hand.
The optical tube is only 24 inches long and weighs 27 lbs., which makes it quite easy to transport. That will almost certainly come in handy if you like to move often during your meteor observations. You can also acquire additional add-ons. For instance, you can add eyepieces, Moon Filter, Barlow Lens, and the Telescope Accessory Kit. In the kit, there is a finder scope, rack and pinion focuser, collimation cap, as well as a tripod accessory tray. The Equatorial Mount is perfect for deep-space observation, but the setup process is rather complicated for beginners.
Celestron – NexStar 8SE Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE is royalty among the telescopes on this list. It has the biggest aperture, but that has consequences – this scope also has the highest price.
Nevertheless, watching the skies through this telescope is an exceptional experience. It has 81x magnification and 8-inch aperture, which is a delight both for experienced and novice observers. The GoTo mount and SkyAlign feature are some of the best features that those who are just starting can use. But here is the thing: there are only two add-ons that you can get with 8SE, and those are the finder scope and an eyepiece. However, unlike the Orion telescope above, these two additions come free-of-charge.
Meade Instruments 209006 Infinity 102mm AZ Refractor Telescope
Meade Instruments is a top-tier company that has the largest production of telescopes in the world. If you are not sure whose scope to buy first, Meade Instruments is our warm recommendation. Moreover, this exact model is one of the best scopes for amateurs. You won’t be able to watch deep-sky objects, but meteor showers will be a breeze.
Among the best features of this model is the 2x Barlow Lens that doubles the magnification of the eyepiece. You can even choose between three levels of magnification (low, medium, high). Another thing that we quite liked is the red-dot viewfinder that you can just point in the direction that you want. In case the setup is confusing, you have astronomical software and a DVD to help with installation.
Celestron 70mm Travel Scope
The Celestron 70mm Travel Scope is a portable telescope that you can easily set up and use. Moreover, both adults and kids can use it regardless of the level of proficiency. The key features of this scope are the 2.76-inch aperture and 70mm refractor.
You also get extras – a pair of eyepieces that boast 20x and 40x magnification. Moreover, you get comprehensive instructions along with The Sky X software. This software gives you maps of the sky that you can print and a database with 10,000 objects. Besides the easily portable nature of the telescope, it is quite affordable. If you want to start your meteor adventure or hone your skills, the Travel Scope is perhaps the best option.
Honourable Mentions
If you want to explore other models in hopes of finding the perfect one, you can check out our honorable mentions. The telescopes that we listed below are great for any occasion, and we had to include them in this article.
- Gskyer 400mm AZ Mount 70mm Aperture Telescope
- Celestron – NexStar 6SE Telescope
- Orion 8945 SkyQuest XT8 Classic Dobsonian Telescope