Telescope basics
There are three basic types of telescopes. These differences are called optical designs. Which gather light in different ways. Reflectors, Refractors and cassegrains are the three optical designs described here.
Telescope basics below are the common three types of telescopes and an overview on how they work.
Reflectors
These are exclusively for astronomy. The image produced by these is inverted
(upside down) so it wouldn’t make since to look at objects on land.
The light is gathered with mirrors and produces some of the best high quality resolution, high contrast images.
Refractors
For astronomy and terrestrial. Refractors gather light with a lens.
These telescopes are the more common type of scope. Ideal for the beginner and the casual astronomer. The large refractors are well known for viewing planets.
Cassegrains
Unique using a combination of mirrors and a lens to gather light. These are a prized favorite with astro photography. A nice compact size makes them
portable and ideal for star parties.
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