Reflecting Telescopes

Reflecting Telescopes use a mirror to gather light and bring the image to the eyepiece. These telescopes are often referred to as "Newtonians" because they were first conceived of by Isaac Newton. Reflectors utilize a parabolic mirror that reflects the image to a focal point. Since the mirror reflects the image back towards the source, a small secondary mirror set at an angle reflects the light perpendicular to the tube so that the eyepiece is attached to the side of the telescope, rather than the end. Reflectors provide good views of all types of sky objects such as planets, the moon, star clusters, galaxies, nebulae, and multiple star systems. They require some minor maintenance to keep the mirrors in proper alignment. They are the least expensive telescopes and provide the most light-gathering abilities for the dollar. A favorite choice of amateur astronomers everywhere.

•  Strengths: Great for viewing faint objects such as galaxies and nebulae, reflectors also provide good general viewing of clusters, planets, the moon and binaries. Affordable.
• Weaknesses: They tend to be more bulky to move about and store. They also require periodic maintenance to keep the optics properly aligned.

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Refracting Telescopes / Catadioptric Telescopes

Calculating Magnification and f/ratios / Buying Hints / Star Parties with Northern Stars

Northern Stars Explorations Page / Off Site Links about Telescopes  

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Northern Stars Planetarium and Educational Services,
Fairfield, ME 04937
(207) 453-7668
info@northern-stars.com