The best telescopes for planets have long focal lengths, sharp optics and enough aperture to make details on Jupiter, Saturn and Mars visible. In this blog you will discover which type of telescope is best suited for planetary observation, what to look out for as a beginner, and which models offer the best value for money.
Why are some telescopes better for planets?
Planets such as Jupiter and Saturn are bright, but relatively small in the sky. So you need a telescope that:
✓ Can handle high magnification (without blurry image)
✓ Provides plenty of contrast to distinguish fine details (such as rings or cloud bands)
✓ Stable so that the image does not shake at high magnification
Therefore, telescopes with a long focal length and a good optical quality most appropriate.
What is important in planetary observation?
1. Focal length
The longer the focal length, the easier it is to achieve high magnification. So a 1200 mm telescope is often better suited for planets than one of 500 mm.
2. Aperture (diaphragm).
The aperture determines how much light and detail you capture. For planetary observation, you want at least 90 mm, but preferably 130 mm or more.
3. Seeing
That is the stability of the air. Even with the best telescope, you see little when the atmosphere is unsettled. Therefore, observations around midnight, in calm skies, are the best time.
4. Magnification and eyepieces
A useful magnification is 1 to 2 times the aperture in mm. For a 150 mm telescope, that means 150x to 300x. Use good eyepieces and possibly a Barlow lens.
What type of telescope is best for planets?
| Type | Advantage | Suitable for planets? |
|---|---|---|
| Refractor | Very sharp image, no alignment required | ✓ (at f/10 or higher) |
| Newton Reflector | Lots of aperture, high magnification possible | ✓✓ (especially f/6-f/8 models) |
| Maksutov-Cassegrain | Compact, long focal length | ✓✓✓✓ (but more expensive per mm) |
| Dobson | Large mirrors, affordable | ✓✓✓ (ideal from 150 mm) |
For beginners and price-conscious buyers are Dobson telescopes by far the most recommended option.
Best telescopes for planets by budget
Under €400 - getting in with power
- Sky-Watcher Dobson 150/1200
✓ Large mirror, long focal length, stable base.
✓ Perfect for the moon, Jupiter and Saturn.
✓ Affordable without compromising on image quality.
With Dobsons: buy it largest size your budget allows. The larger the mirror, the more details you see.
Between €400 - €700, for those who want just a little more
- Sky-Watcher Dobson 200/1200
✓ 33% more light than the 150 mm version
✓ More details on Jupiter, sharper rings of Saturn
✓ Excellent to combine with color filters and Barlow
€700 and up, convenience and performance combined
- Celestron StarSense Explorer Dobson 200/1200
✓ Same optics as the above 200 mm Dobson
✓ Includes smartphone navigation with StarSense app
✓ Ideal for beginners who want help with aiming
Recommended: Sky-Watcher Dobson 150/1200 or 200/1200
The Sky-Watcher Dobson 150/1200 and 200/1200 are Newton reflectors on a simple, stable wooden Dobson mount. They offer:
✓ A long focal length (f/8): perfect for planetary observation
✓ Large aperture of 150 or 200 mm: lots of light and detail
✓ Affordable price: great value for money
✓ Simple use: no complex electronics
With a good eyepiece (such as a 6 mm Plössl or LE Planetary Eyepiece) you will see:
- The cloud bands of Jupiter
- The rings of Saturn
- The polar caps of Mars
- Craters and shadows on the moon in razor-sharp contrast
These models are known as the ultimate starter option for those serious about observing planets.
View the Sky-Watcher Dobson telescopes on Telescoop.co.uk for current prices and specifications.
Smart upgrade: Celestron StarSense Explorer Dobson 200/1200
Want help finding planets in the sky? Then the Celestron StarSense Explorer Dobson 200/1200 a smart choice. This telescope combines:
✓ Large mirror of 200 mm
✓ Long focal length (f/6)
✓ StarSense smartphone navigation: your phone helps you find Saturn or Mars quickly
✓ Solid Dobson base
Ideal for those with no experience in object search. The app shows you with arrows exactly where to aim. Once you have Jupiter or Venus in focus, you'll see razor-sharp details thanks to Celestron's optics.
This is the perfect model for families, novice enthusiasts or those who want to see planets without the hassle of setting up.
More info on the product page of the StarSense Dobson.
What can you expect to see?
With the right telescope, you see:
✓ Jupiter - cloud bands, Great Red Spot, 4 Galilean moons ✓ Saturn - rings, Cassini separation, moon Titan ✓ Mars - polar caps, dark spots at opposition ✓ Venus - lunar phases ✓ Uranus & Neptune - as blue-green dots (with larger telescopes)
Note that planetary observation is detail work. The better the seeing and optics, the more you see.
Tips for even better results
✓ Let your telescope cool outside for 30-60 minutes before you begin
✓ Use color filters (e.g., blue for Jupiter, red for Mars) to increase contrast
✓ Combine with a good Barlow lens for more magnification
✓ Look preferably when planets are high in the sky
Conclusion: the best telescopes for planets
The best telescopes for planets are models with a long focal length, stable optics and sufficient aperture. For those just starting out or just want quick results:
✔ Choose the Sky-Watcher Dobson 150/1200 for top quality without fuss
✔ Upgrade to the Celestron StarSense Dobson 200/1200 if you want help with targeting
Both models offer razor-sharp images of Jupiter, Saturn and Mars, without complicated mounting or adjustment work.
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