Evaluating and Rating Top Tier Reflector Telescopes Equipped on Tripods (From Over 40 Options)
Top-Ranked 130mm Reflector Telescopes Compared
In the world of 130mm reflector telescopes, there's a variety of options available, ranging from manual Dobsonian-style models to those equipped with computerized GoTo systems. These telescopes cater to different levels of astronomers, from beginners to advanced stargazers.
Manual Telescopes:
One standout choice for beginners seeking a manual reflector without GoTo is the Celestron StarSense Explorer 130mm tabletop Dobsonian. With a 130mm aperture and a focal length of 650mm (f/5), this telescope comes with the StarSense app-guided system, which helps locate objects using smartphone plate-solving technology. Although it lacks automated tracking or true GoTo motors, it costs approximately $479 and includes two eyepieces offering 26x and 65x magnification. Portable and weighing around 15 lbs, this model is excellent for manual visual observation of planets and bright deep-sky objects, although it may be limited for astrophotography.
Telescopes with GoTo Systems:
Among 130mm reflectors with GoTo systems, the market is somewhat sparse, but there are options like the Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ, a 130mm Newtonian reflector with app-enabled GoTo functionality. This model features automated object location and tracking, saving time in celestial navigation, although precise astrophotography capabilities depend on the mount and focal ratio. The StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ is priced at around $499 at HighPoint.
High-End Options:
Top-ranked refractors in the similar aperture range, such as the Stellarvue SVX130T or Astro-Physics 130GTX, represent high-end instruments valued for their colour accuracy and sharp optics. However, these are refractors, not reflectors, and their prices are significantly higher (often several thousand dollars), designed for serious astrophotography and high-resolution visual use.
Summary of Features and Prices:
| Telescope | Type | Aperture/Focal Length | GoTo | Usage | Price approx. | Notes | |--------------------------------------|--------------------|----------------------|------|------------------------------|---------------|---------------------------------------| | Celestron StarSense Explorer 130mm | Newtonian Dobsonian | 130mm / 650mm (f/5) | No* | Beginner visual, app-guided | ~$479 | Manual alt-az mount; app assists star-hopping | | Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ| Newtonian Reflector | 130mm | Yes | Beginner-intermediate visual & tracking | Varies ~$499-600 | App-enabled GoTo; tracking included | | Stellarvue SVX130T | Apo Refractor | 130mm (f/7 to f/6.3) | No | Advanced imaging & visual | Several thousand $ | High-end refractor, no GoTo in base kit | | Astro-Physics 130GTX | Apo Refractor | 130mm f/6.3 | No | Advanced astrophotography | Premium pricing | Top-tier optics, long wait times |
*Note: StarSense Explorer 130mm uses smartphone plate-solving app for guided pointing but lacks motorized tracking or automated GoTo.
In summary, for 130mm reflector telescopes, the Celestron StarSense 130 tabletop Dobsonian is the top recommendation for manual use at an affordable price, while the StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ provides automated GoTo features for a modest price increase. High-end options at this aperture are mostly refractors rather than reflectors and command a much higher price with superior optical performance. Reflector telescopes with GoTo tend to be found more commonly at larger apertures or in compound telescope formats.
- Advanced planetary astrophotography may require high-end refractors like the Stellarvue SVX130T or Astro-Physics 130GTX, renowned for their color accuracy and sharp optics.
- The field of view of the Celestron StarSense Explorer 130mm tabletop Dobsonian can be enhanced with the help of the included 26x and 65x eyepieces.
- The 130mm aperture of the Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ reflector telescope provides a good balance between light gathering and portability.
- The optics of the Celestron StarSense Explorer 130mm are designed for manual visual observation, functioning effectively with planets and bright deep-sky objects.
- The collimation process, essential for optimal performance, can be performed on both manual and GoTo-equipped reflector telescopes.
- For a beginner interested in manual telescopes, the tabletop Celestron StarSense Explorer 130mm Dobsonian is a popular choice, thanks to its affordability and app-guided system.
- The market offers some gadgets and technology to enhance the Moon's view, but their compatibility relies on the specific type of telescope – reflectors or refractors – used for observation.
- With a focal length of 650mm (f/5), the Celestron StarSense Explorer 130mm telescope provides a decent balance between magnification and light grasp, suitable for a range of celestial bodies.
){kind=link}