Best Telescope for Deep Space, Planets, and Galaxies

Want to explore Saturn’s rings, capture nebulae in vivid color, and photograph distant galaxies? You’ll need the right scope—and not just any telescope will cut it.

From the r/AskAstrophotography community and deep-space imaging experts, we’ve gathered the most practical advice on how to choose a telescope that can handle both deep space photography and crisp planetary observation. Whether you’re new to the night sky or building your dream rig, this guide covers the best scopes, mounts, and setups to make it happen.

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Deep Space vs. Planetary Observation: What’s the Difference?

Deep-sky objects (DSOs) like nebulae and galaxies require wide fields of view and high sensitivity, while planetary observation needs high magnification and clarity. Most telescopes excel at one or the other—not both.

However, with the right combination of telescope, focal length, and mount, you can build a versatile rig that captures the best of both worlds.

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Best Telescope Types for Planets, Galaxies, and Deep Sky Photography

Reddit experts recommend the following scope types:

1. Refractors (70–100mm) – Best for Beginners & Wide Deep Sky Imaging

• Top models: William Optics FLT91, Sharpstar Z4, Askar FRA500, RedCat 51

• Focal lengths: 250mm–500mm

• Strengths: Wide field of view, color correction, portability

These are great for large DSOs like the Andromeda Galaxy or Orion Nebula, and they’re forgiving for tracking errors. Perfect for new astrophotographers.

Community quote:
“Start with a 70–80mm refractor and you’ll get wide targets and medium-sized galaxies with ease.”

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2. Newtonian Reflectors (150mm–200mm) – Great for Galaxies & Detail

• Top models: Sky-Watcher Quattro 200P, Apertura 8” Imaging Newtonian

• Focal lengths: ~800–1000mm

• Strengths: Big aperture for low cost, ideal for faint DSOs

These scopes collect more light—ideal for smaller galaxies and nebulae. But they require regular collimation and a strong mount.

Tip: Many Redditors recommend buying one after starting with a smaller refractor.

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3. Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescopes (SCTs) – Best for Planets and Small Galaxies

• Top models: Celestron EdgeHD 8, Meade LX200 8”

• Focal lengths: 2000mm+

• Strengths: High magnification, compact size

SCTs are planet killers—you’ll get razor-sharp views of Jupiter, Saturn, and lunar craters. You can add a focal reducer to widen the field for DSO imaging too.

Community feedback:
“A C8 on a good mount can image Saturn and photograph Messier galaxies if you invest in guiding.”

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What About the Mount? It’s the Most Important Piece

Every Reddit veteran says it: the mount is more important than the telescope.

Best Tracking Mounts (Visual & Photography)

Tip: Keep your total gear weight under 60% of the mount’s max capacity for stable astrophotography.

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Recommended Setups Based on Skill & Budget

Beginner Budget Setup (~$1000–$1500)

• Scope: Astro-Tech AT60ED or RedCat 51

• Mount: Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer GTi or iOptron SkyGuider Pro

• Camera: DSLR or mirrorless with adapter

• Results: Gorgeous Milky Way, nebulae, and wide-field galaxies

Intermediate Setup (~$2500–$3500)

• Scope: William Optics ZenithStar 73 or Askar FRA500

• Mount: iOptron CEM26 or ZWO AM5

• Camera: Dedicated Astro Cam (e.g., ZWO ASI533MC Pro)

• Results: Deep sky targets with crisp resolution and auto-guided accuracy

Advanced Planet + Deep Space Setup ($4000+)

• Scope: Celestron EdgeHD 8″ or Sky-Watcher Quattro 200P

• Mount: EQ6-R Pro or ZWO AM5

• Camera: ZWO ASI2600MC Pro (DSO) + ASI585MC (Planetary)

• Extras: Autoguider, focal reducer, filters, etc.

• Results: High-res planetary shots + tight spiral galaxy detail

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Deep Space Objects You Can Target

With the setups above, you can confidently aim for:

• Wide-field (with refractors): Andromeda Galaxy, Orion Nebula, North America Nebula, Rosette

• Narrow-field (with SCTs or Newtonians): Whirlpool Galaxy, Ring Nebula, Crab Nebula

• Planetary targets (with longer FL): Jupiter, Saturn, Mars, Moon, Uranus, Neptune

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Pro Tips from Reddit Astrophotographers

• “MOUNT FIRST.” Spend 50–60% of your budget here.

• Keep focal length short if you’re new. Easier tracking, more forgiving setup.

• Start with visual, but plan for AP. Add gear slowly—camera, guiding, filters.

• Always balance weight + stability. Don’t max out your mount’s capacity.

• Use a moon phase calendar to schedule dark sky nights.

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Final Thoughts: The Best Telescope for Deep Space, Planets, and Galaxies

If you’re serious about observing and imaging both planetary and deep-sky targets, here’s your best gear match:

Want sharper shots and darker skies? Don’t forget to use the Moon Phase Calculator before your next session—it helps you avoid full moons that wash out faint DSOs.

Shoot for the stars. The right telescope will take you there.