10 Best Telescopes For Adults Astronomy 2025 in the United States

The Gskyer 600x90mm AZ Astronomical Refractor Telescope is a solid choice for adults interested in astronomy, particularly those who are beginners or intermediate users. Its 90mm aperture and 600mm focal length allow for clear images of celestial objects, making it well-suited for stargazing and observing the moon and planets. The high-quality optics with fully coated glass lenses enhance image clarity and protect your eyes, which is a significant plus for long viewing sessions.

One of the standout features is the inclusion of three interchangeable eyepieces (24X, 60X, 120X) along with a 3x Barlow lens. This provides versatility in magnification options, allowing users to explore various celestial objects at different levels of detail. The adjustable aluminum tripod adds to the telescope's appeal, enabling users to find comfortable viewing positions easily.

The telescope weighs 18 pounds, which might be a bit heavy for some users looking for portability. While it’s relatively easy to operate, the manual focus might require some practice for those who are not familiar with telescopes. Additionally, the Azimuth mount may not be as stable as some more advanced equatorial mounts, potentially making tracking moving objects a bit more challenging.

The HEXEUM AZ80600 telescope offers a solid choice for adults interested in astronomy. With an 80mm aperture and 600mm focal length, it captures ample light and provides clear, bright images, making it suitable for observing celestial objects like the moon and planets. The telescope includes two eyepieces (25mm and 10mm) and a 3x Barlow lens, allowing for versatile magnification options up to 180 times. This flexibility caters to varying levels of observation detail, which is great for both beginners and more experienced users.

The altazimuth mount is easy to use, aiding in the smooth tracking of objects across the night sky. Additionally, the telescope’s portability is a strong point; it comes with a carrying bag, an adjustable tripod, and a phone adapter for taking photos through the telescope, making it great for stargazing on the go. However, it is worth noting that while the setup is advertised as tool-free and straightforward, some users might still find it challenging without prior experience. Also, at 6.2 pounds, it is relatively lightweight but may require careful handling to avoid misalignment.

The included finder scope aids in locating objects but may not be as precise as higher-end options. This telescope is ideal for adults who are looking to get started in astronomy with a balance of quality optics and portability.

The Celestron NexStar 8SE Telescope is designed to support both beginners and seasoned astronomers with its blend of user-friendly technology and impressive optics. With an 8-inch aperture, it allows for excellent light-gathering capabilities, making it great for observing celestial objects in detail. The Schmidt-Cassegrain optical design contributes to its compact form while maintaining high-quality images, which is a big plus for users who want serious performance without the bulk.

One of its standout features is the fully-automated GoTo mount, which comes with a database of over 40,000 celestial objects. This makes locating and tracking astronomical targets easy, which is particularly beneficial for those new to stargazing. The SkyAlign technology simplifies the initial setup, allowing users to get started quickly.

Portability is another strength, as the telescope is easy to assemble and disassemble, making it suitable for users who may want to transport it to different locations. The sturdy design, coupled with a steel tripod, ensures stability during usage, which is essential for clear observations. Plus, Celestron backs this product with a solid warranty and responsive customer support, giving users peace of mind.

However, there are some drawbacks. The manual focus may be a learning curve for some users, especially those who prefer automatic adjustments. Additionally, while the size is manageable, it may still be considered bulky for complete beginners or casual stargazers who might want a more straightforward, smaller option. Battery power can also be a limitation for prolonged use, as users need to stay mindful of battery life during long observation sessions.

The NexStar 8SE stands out as a robust choice for serious astronomy enthusiasts who value both performance and ease of use, although it may not suit those seeking a more compact or simpler solution.