17 Best Telescopes To See Planets [2023]

Andrew Etter
  Nov 30, 2023 8:37 PM

Have you ever wanted to explore the night sky and observe planets up close? If so, then you’ll need the best telescope to make the most of your star-gazing experience. Telescopes are powerful tools which can allow you to observe the beauty of our Solar System with breathtaking clarity. There are many different types of telescopes on the market, so it’s important to choose the one that’s best for you.

When it comes to seeing planets, there are several factors to consider such as size, aperture, and magnification. It’s also important to choose the right type of telescope, such as a refractor, reflector, or compound telescope. With the right telescope, you’ll be able to get an up-close view of Jupiter, Saturn, and other planets in our Solar System. So, if you’re looking for the Best telescopes to see planets, then you’ve come to the right place!

17 Best Telescopes To See Planets [2023]
Find the perfect telescope to get a clear view of the planets. Image source: Amazon.com
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Comparison

NoImageProductScoreCheck
1Celestron - NexStar 8SE Telescope - Computerized Telescope for Beginners and Advanced Users - Fully-Automated GoTo Mount - SkyAlign Technology - 40,000+ Celestial Objects - 8-Inch Primary Mirror Best Overall: Celestron NexStar 8SE Telescope9.2Check Price
2Celestron – AstroMaster LT 70AZ Refractor Telescope – Easy-to-Use Telescope for Beginners with Full-Height Tripod Included – BONUS Astronomy Software Package Best For Budget Conscious: Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ Refractor Telescope9.3Check Price
3Celestron Inspire 100AZ Refractor Smartphone Adapter Built-In Refracting Telescope, Blue (22403) Best For Practicing Basic Astrophotography: Celestron Inspire 100AZ Refractor Smartphone Adapter Built-In Refracting Telescope9.4Check Price
4Celestron Astro Fi 102 Wi-Fi Maksutov Wireless Reflecting Telescope, Black (22202) Lightweight And Portable: Celestron Astro Fi 102 Wi-Fi Maksutov Wireless Reflecting Telescope9.2Check Price
5Celestron – Omni XLT 102 Refractor Telescope – Hand-Figured Refractor with XLT Optical Coatings – Manual German Equatorial EQ Mount with Setting Circles and Slow Motion Control – Includes Accessories A Solid Refractor With A Sturdy Mount And Tripod: Celestron Omni XLT 102 Refractor Telescope8.9Check Price

#1 Best Overall:Celestron NexStar 8SE Telescope

The Celestron NexStar 8SE Telescope is the perfect telescope for beginners and advanced users alike. With its fully automated GoTo mount and SkyAlign technology, you can easily find and track over 40,000 celestial objects with just a few button presses. The 8-inch primary mirror gathers enough light for you to see the planets, stars, galaxies, and other deep sky objects in amazing detail. The mount also features an adjustable steel tripod and a computerized hand control with a back-lit LCD display for easy use in the dark. With this telescope, you can explore the night sky with ease and discover its wonders!

#2 Best For Budget Conscious:Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ Refractor Telescope

Take your stargazing to the next level with the Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ Refractor Telescope. Perfect for beginning astronomers, this telescope features high-quality optics and a lightweight design for easy portability. The full-height tripod included allows for comfortable viewing, and the quick and easy no-tool setup ensures you’ll be up and running in no time. The Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ Refractor Telescope comes with a bonus astronomy software package that includes a 10,000-object database, printable sky maps, and enhanced images of the Moon and planets. Get ready to explore the night sky with the Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ Refractor Telescope.

#3 Best For Practicing Basic Astrophotography:Celestron Inspire 100AZ Refractor Smartphone Adapter Built-In Refracting Telescope

Celestron Inspire 100AZ Refractor Smartphone Adapter Built-In Refracting Telescope is an ideal telescope for beginners and amateur astronomers looking to explore the night sky with their smartphone. This telescope features a fully-coated glass optical system and a lightweight frame, making it both portable and easy to use. The built-in Smartphone Adapter allows you to capture stunning images of the night sky and share them with friends and family. Its large 100mm aperture provides clear and detailed views of deep-sky objects such as galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters, while its short 400mm focal length provides a wide field of view. The Celestron Inspire 100AZ Refractor Smartphone Adapter Built-In Refracting Telescope is the perfect telescope for exploring the night sky and sharing your discoveries with the world.

#4 Lightweight And Portable:Celestron Astro Fi 102 Wi-Fi Maksutov Wireless Reflecting Telescope

Experience the night sky like never before with the Celestron Astro Fi 102 Wi-Fi Maksutov Wireless Reflecting Telescope. This telescope offers a powerful, 102mm reflective telescope with a Maksutov-Cassegrain optical design and fully automated GoTo mount. Connect to your smartphone or tablet to control the telescope, find objects in the night sky, and capture stunning images with the free Celestron SkyPortal app. The Astro Fi 102 comes with a smartphone adapter, allowing you to use your device as a convenient viewfinder and to capture images. Its GoTo mount includes a built-in StarPointer finderscope for easy alignment and accurate object tracking. The Astro Fi is a great telescope for beginning and intermediate amateur astronomers, and is perfect for observing the Moon, planets, and bright deep sky objects.

#5 A Solid Refractor With A Sturdy Mount And Tripod:Celestron Omni XLT 102 Refractor Telescope

The Celestron 21088 Omni XLT 102 Refractor Telescope is a perfect choice for the aspiring astronomer. This telescope features hand-figured optics with XLT multi-coatings for maximum light transmission and clarity. The manual German Equatorial EQ mount is designed with setting circles and slow motion controls for precise tracking and easy navigation of the night sky. The included accessories make it easy to get started with your stargazing adventure. The telescope comes with two eyepieces, a StarPointer finderscope, and a 1.25" star diagonal. With the Celestron 21088, you can explore the wonders of the night sky with ease and accuracy.
1
Celestron - NexStar 8SE Telescope - Computerized Telescope for Beginners and Advanced Users - Fully-Automated GoTo Mount - SkyAlign Technology - 40,000+ Celestial Objects - 8-Inch Primary Mirror
Celestron - NexStar 8SE Telescope - Computerized Telescope for Beginners
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    9.2
  • Brand
    Celestron
  • Nexstar computerized telescope: The NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope features Celestron’s iconic orange tube design with updated technology and the latest features for amazing stargazing for beginners and experienced observers.
  • 8-Inch aperture: The 8-inch primary mirror in this Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope for adults and kids to be used together packs enough light-gathering ability to observe the best that our Solar System has to offer, while retaining a compact form factor. Compatible with starsense technology, Wifi  more
2
Celestron – AstroMaster LT 70AZ Refractor Telescope – Easy-to-Use Telescope for Beginners with Full-Height Tripod Included – BONUS Astronomy Software Package
Celestron – AstroMaster LT 70AZ Refractor Telescope – Easy-to-Use Telescope
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    9.3
  • Brand
    Celestron
  • Permanently mounted Star Pointer for convenience
  • Rugged pre-assembled tripod with steel tube legs provides a rigid and stable platform  more
3
Celestron Inspire 100AZ Refractor Smartphone Adapter Built-In Refracting Telescope, Blue (22403)
Celestron Inspire 100AZ Refractor Smartphone Adapter Built-In Refracting Telescope, Blue
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    9.4
  • Brand
    Celestron
  • Bold new design - The main telescope lens cap comes with a fully integrated smartphone adapter built-in, perfect for the budding astrophotographer. The asymmetrical mount design offers light weight and incredible stability. Erect image optics enables a fully correct image for easy viewing day or night, terrestrial or astronomical.
  • Easiest setup of any entry level scope.  With the folding accessory tray you just pop the tripod legs open, turn the lock knob and you’re ready to go.  more
4
Celestron Astro Fi 102 Wi-Fi Maksutov Wireless Reflecting Telescope, Black (22202)
Celestron Astro Fi 102 Wi-Fi Maksutov Wireless Reflecting Telescope, Black
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    9.2
  • Brand
    Celestron
  • Control your telescope via integrated WiFi using the free Celestron SkyPortal app for iPhone, iPad, and Android devices
  • Accessories include: two eyepieces (25mm and 10mm), star diagonal, finderscope, and a NEW integrated smartphone adapter  more
5
Celestron – Omni XLT 102 Refractor Telescope – Hand-Figured Refractor with XLT Optical Coatings – Manual German Equatorial EQ Mount with Setting Circles and Slow Motion Control – Includes Accessories
Celestron – Omni XLT 102 Refractor Telescope – Hand-Figured Refractor
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    8.9
  • Brand
    Celestron
  • ACCESSORIES INCLUDED: Everything you need to begin observing immediately—6x30 optical finderscope, sturdy full-height steel tripod with 1.75” legs, 1.25” star diagonal, and a 25mm multicoated eyepiece.
  • CELESTRON’S LEGENDARY OMNI XLT REFRACTOR OPTICAL TUBE: Celestron technicians hand select the glass for each lens in your Omni XLT refractor so only the finest grade optical glass is used.  more
6
Telescope 80mm Aperture 600mm - Astronomical Portable Refracting Telescope Fully Multi-coated High Transmission Coatings AZ Mount with Tripod Phone Adapter, Wireless Control, Carrying Bag. Easy Set Up
Telescope 80mm Aperture 600mm - Astronomical Portable Refracting Telescope Fully
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    8.8
  • Brand
    HEXEUM
  • Easy To Set Up: In order to save your time. Even for novices, no tools are required to set up the telescope. quick and easy to focus. Truly realize a no-tool-set telescope.
  • Optimum Magnification: Our telescope for kids and adults is quipped with two replaceable excellent-quality eyepieces (25mm and 10mm) for 24X and 60X magnification. 3x Barlow lens trebles the magnifying power of each eyepiece. magnificate moon up to 72 or 180 times. Also with 5x24 finder scope makes locating objects easy.  more
7
ToyerBee Telescope for Adults & Kids, 70mm Aperture Astronomical Refractor Telescopes for Astronomy Beginners (15X-150X), 300mm Portable Telescope with an Phone Adapter & A Wireless Remote
ToyerBee Telescope for Adults & Kids, 70mm Aperture Astronomical Refractor
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    9.1
  • Brand
    ToyerBee
  • Adjustable Tripod: With an adjustable tripod, our astronomical telescope’s height can adjust from 16’’ to 46’’, which can adapt to different view positions. It’s also convenient to be carried when you go out and travel.
  • 70mm Large Aperture: The telescope is equipped with a 70mm large aperture objective lens which makes the images brighter and clearer. The bigger the aperture is, the bigger the field of vision will be, so you can see clearer images. Professional telescope can help adults&kids view the planets and moon.  more
8
Gskyer Telescope, 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refracting Telescope for Kids Beginners - Travel Telescope with Carry Bag, Phone Adapter and Wireless Remote
Gskyer Telescope, 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refracting Telescope
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    8.5
  • Brand
    Gskyer
  • Quality Optics: 400mm(f/5.7) focal length and 70mm aperture, fully coated optics glass lens with high transmission coatings creates stunning images and protect your eyes. Perfect telescope for astronomers to explore stars and moon.
  • Adjustable Tripod: This telescope allows for many different viewing positions with a adjustable aluminum alloy tripod and a carry bag, the telescope and tripod can fit inside the bag for easy traveling and storage.  more
9
Celestron–StarSense Explorer 10-inch Dobsonian Smartphone App-Enabled Telescope – Works with StarSense App to Help You Find Nebulae, Planets & More –10-inch DOB Telescope – iPhone/Android Compatible
Celestron–StarSense Explorer 10-inch Dobsonian Smartphone App-Enabled Telescope – Works with
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    8.3
  • Brand
    Celestron
  • Included with StarSense: 25mm Pl�ssl eyepiece, a 2� Crayford focuser, the StarSense smartphone dock, a StarPointer� red dot finderscope, an eyepiece rack, and a collimation tool.
  • StarSense Explorer App: StarSense Explorer app automatically generates a list of objects currently visible. View planets, brighter nebulae and galaxies, star clusters, and double stars from the city.  more
10
Celestron - 70mm Travel Scope DX - Portable Refractor Telescope - Fully-Coated Glass Optics - Ideal Telescope for Beginners - BONUS Astronomy Software Package - Digiscoping Smartphone Adapter
Celestron - 70mm Travel Scope DX - Portable Refractor Telescope
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    8.3
  • Brand
    Celestron
11
Celestron – StarSense Explorer LT 114AZ Smartphone App-Enabled Telescope – Works with StarSense App to Help You Find Stars, Planets & More – 114mm Newtonian Reflector – iPhone/Android Compatible
Celestron – StarSense Explorer LT 114AZ Smartphone App-Enabled Telescope –
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    9.0
  • Brand
    Celestron
  • Manual altazimuth mount with smooth, dual-axis slow-motion controls makes it easy to follow the on-screen arrows to your desired target. When the bullseye turns green, it's ready to view in the telescope's eyepiece.
  • 114mm Newtonian reflector optical tube - 25mm 1.25 " Kellner Eyepiece - 10mm 1.25 " Kellner Eyepiece - 2x Barlow Lens - StarSense Smartphone dock - - Red Dot Finderscope - Altazimuth mount with slow motion control rod - Full Height Tripod - Accessory Tray - Original Box  more
12
Celestron - 70mm Travel Scope - Portable Refractor Telescope - Fully-Coated Glass Optics - Ideal Telescope for Beginners - BONUS Astronomy Software Package
Celestron - 70mm Travel Scope - Portable Refractor Telescope -
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    8.1
  • Brand
    Celestron
  • BONUS BAG, TRIPOD, AND SOFTWARE: Take your Travel Scope anywhere in the included travel backpack.The scope and tripod are easy to set up and use. You'll also receive a FREE download of one of the top-rated astronomy software programs.
  • POWERFUL EYEPIECES FOR UP-CLOSE VIEWING: Our telescope for astronomy beginners is equipped with two high-quality eyepieces (20mm and 10mm) that provide low- and high-power views. Observe celestial objects at night and land-based objects during the day.  more
13
Moutec Telescope for Astronomy Beginners with Sturdy Steel Tripod, 700x70mm AZ Astronomical Refractor Telescope for Adults, Great Astronomy Gift for Kids to Explore Moon and Planets
Moutec Telescope for Astronomy Beginners with Sturdy Steel Tripod, 700x70mm
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    8.3
  • Brand
    Moutec
  • 【RELIABLE SERVICE】We are a reliable brand that comes from the manufacturer, and we are aimed to introduce affordable telescopes designed with a combination of quality, power, and user-friendly features to kids, teens, adults, and amateur astronomers. Contact us if you have any questions about telescope and service.
  • 【EASY SETUP】Setup is quick and easy, no extra tools are required, even little kids can assemble it with family's accompany. Once the setup is completed, you can start your space adventure immediately!  more
14
Telescopes for Adults Astronomy, 80mm Aperture 500mm Professional Refractor Telescopes for Kids, Beginners Telescope with Adjustable Tripod, Phone Adapter to Observe The Moon and Planet
Telescopes for Adults Astronomy, 80mm Aperture 500mm Professional Refractor Telescopes
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    8.1
  • Brand
    Gladfoam
  • ★【20x ~ 150x High Magnification】: Telescopes for beginners is equipped with zenith mirror, barlow Lens 3X, 10mm eyepiece and 25mm eyepiece. With zenith mirror, it provides erect image other than upside-down image, having better view of beautiful scenery. 10mm eyepiece =50X magnification 25mm eyepiece =20X magnification. If it works with barlow Lens 3X, then magnification will be up to 150X and 60X.
  • ★【Adjustable Tripod & Easy to Assemble】: The tripod of the telescope is made of high quailty stainless steel, 28.7in to 45.7in adjustable height design, allows you to adjust different height according to your needs to achieve the best viewing state. With product installation guide, our astronomical refractor telescopes will only takes around 5 minutes or less time to install telescope, the operation is very simple.  more
15
Celestron – StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ Smartphone App-Enabled Telescope – Works with StarSense App to Help You Find Stars, Planets & More – 130mm Newtonian Reflector – iPhone/Android Compatible
Celestron – StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ Smartphone App-Enabled Telescope –
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    8.3
  • Brand
    Celestron
  • 130mm Newtonian Reflector Optical Tube - 25mm Kellner Eyepiece - 10mm Kellner Eyepiece - StarSense Smartphone Dock - Red Dot Finderscope - Altazimuth Mount with Slow Motion Control Rod - Full Height Tripod - Accessory Tray - Starsense Code - Download Code
16
Unistellar eVscope eQuinox - Smart Digital Reflector Telescope - Computerized, Go to Portable Astronomy for Beginners & Advanced Users, Adults or Kids - Comes with Tripod, Alt-Az Mount and Control App
Unistellar eVscope eQuinox - Smart Digital Reflector Telescope - Computerized,
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    8.1
  • Brand
    Unistellar
  • Citizen Science: The Unistellar Network is the first global community of citizen astronomers, 5 000 strong and counting
  • Enhanced Vision: 100x more powerful than a regular telescope. Technology that allows a live observation of faint objects thanks to the live accumulation of the light we receive from them  more
17
Merkmak Telescope for Kids, Astronomy Kids Telescope 360/50mm Spotting Scope, 90X Refractor Telescope, Telescopes for Astronomy Beginners with Tripod, Best Gift to Observe Deep Space Stargazing
Merkmak Telescope for Kids, Astronomy Kids Telescope 360/50mm Spotting Scope,
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    7.6
  • Brand
    Merkmak
  • 【Application Occasions】Telescopes for astronomy beginners are suitable for bird watching, environmental monitoring, viewing the sun, the moon, watching the planet, maritime reconnaissance landscape and geographical monitoring. We have the video about installation and use, if you don't know how to install，please contact to us here and we will help you.
  • 【Different Magnifications for Different Targets】Kid telescope with fully coated glass optical elements. It can reduce light reflection and increase light transmission, 360mm focal length, 50mm aperture, 90 degree zenith mirror. This telescope for kids equipped with two eyepieces to watch different targets: H20mm eyepiece can completely see the moon surface, H6mm can be observed crater, Moon Sea.  more

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15 Best Telescope Under $2000, November 2023: Get the best bang for your buck with our top picks of the best telescopes under $2000.

Listed Questions and Answers

Celestron – AstroMaster LT 70AZ Refractor Telescope – Easy-to-Use Telescope for Beginners with Full-Height Tripod Included – BONUS Astronomy Software Package

With our selection of high-quality telescopes, you'll be able to see planets up close and in detail. Image source: Amazon.com

What type of telescope is best for viewing planets?

For those who are interested in viewing the planets, the type of telescope you use will make a big difference. Different telescopes offer different levels of magnification, which can affect the quality of your view. Some telescopes are designed specifically for viewing planets, while others may be better suited for other types of objects. In this article, we'll explore what type of telescope is best for viewing planets and why. We'll also discuss some tips on how to get the most out of your telescope when it comes to observing the planets in our solar system.

How much magnification power do I need to see planets?

If you are looking to observe planets in the night sky, then you will need a telescope with a magnification power of at least 75x. The higher the magnification power, the more detail you will be able to see on the planet's surface. With a high magnification power, you can even distinguish between different features such as craters and mountains. You may also be able to spot moons orbiting around planets with enough magnification. It is important to note that even with a powerful telescope, seeing planets in detail can be difficult because of atmospheric conditions and light pollution.

What are the different types of telescopes available for viewing planets?

Telescopes have been used for centuries to observe planets and stars in the night sky. Today, there are many different types of telescopes available for viewing planets, each with its own unique features and capabilities. From large refracting telescopes to small portable ones, you can find a variety of options that will suit your needs. In this article, we'll explore the different types of telescopes available for viewing planets and their various features and functions.

Best Handheld Telescope 2023: Top choices: Get the most out of your stargazing experience with a handheld telescope from our selection of the best models for beginners and experienced astronomers.

In Conclusion

Celestron Inspire 100AZ Refractor Smartphone Adapter Built-In Refracting Telescope, Blue (22403)

Get ready to explore distant galaxies and discover new worlds with the best telescopes available. Image source: Amazon.com

Are you looking for the best telescope to see planets? If so, then Celestron NexStar 8SE Telescope is the perfect choice for you. With its powerful optics and cutting-edge technology, it can provide you with sharp and clear views of distant celestial bodies. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced astronomer, this telescope will help you explore the wonders of our universe in great detail. It is easy to use and comes with a range of features that make it ideal for exploring planets and other celestial objects. With it, you can enjoy an amazing stargazing experience like never before!