Astronomy Spotting Scopes

1. Astronomy spotting scopes are basically compact telescopes designed for terrestrial viewing. They provide range, sensitivity, and power that far exceed those offered by standard binoculars or spotting scopes.

2. Other common spotting scope applications include birding, hunting, surveillance, beginning telephotography, and scenic observing. But point your astronomy spotting scope at the night sky, and your imagination is the limit.

3. There are two basic types of spotting scopes: angled and straight. Straight spotting scopes are easier for beginners and for terrestrial viewing. Angled spotting scopes are well-suited for astronomy purposes as they can be comfortably mounted and pointed skyward.

4. Astronomy spotting scopes are becoming a popular alternative to traditional telescope finderscopes or binoculars because of their ability to fit high-quality optics into a light, easy-to-carry form factor.

5. Many modern astronomy spotting scopes allow for the use of the scope's lens as a telephoto lens in conjunction with a camera. These lenses generally operate at fixed apertures and with far greater magnifications than standard telephoto lenses, making them ideal for beginning astrophotography.