Best Telescope Accessory Kits for Stargazing

Buying guide for the best telescope accessory kits

Whether you’re just starting your astronomy journey or you’re a seasoned observer, having the right telescope accessories can elevate your stargazing experience. A quality telescope accessory kit can transform even an entry-level telescope into a powerful instrument, allowing for clearer images and enhanced understanding of celestial bodies.

These kits typically include a range of components, making it essential to choose one that fits your specific needs and telescope type. In this guide, we’ll help you navigate the options available, ensuring you find the perfect kit for your astronomy adventures.

How to choose the right telescope accessory kit

Intended Use

Think about what celestial objects you plan to observe. Different eyepieces and filters enhance visibility for various subjects. Some eyepieces excel at planetary viewing, while others are tailored for star clusters or nebulae.

Type of Telescope

The kind of telescope you own, along with its focal length and aperture, are crucial factors when selecting an accessory kit. Certain accessories perform better with specific telescope types, so it’s important to ensure compatibility.

Brand Reputation

While many brands manufacture telescope accessories, some are renowned for their quality and reliability. Consider the following brands when shopping:

• Orion
• Celestron
• Gskyer
• Meade
• Unistellar

Remember, you don’t have to stick to accessories from the same brand as your telescope, but ensure that they are compatible in size.

Consider investing in a telescope cover to shield your equipment from environmental factors if you plan to leave it outside.

Contents of a telescope accessory kit

Typical kits include a selection of eyepieces, a Barlow lens, and various filters. Basic kits may only feature eyepieces, while more advanced kits often include cleaning tools, star maps, and finderscopes.

Eyepieces

Eyepieces are among the most vital components of your telescope. Changing them can significantly impact your observational capabilities. Most kits offer a range of eyepieces with different focal lengths, and having a selection allows for varied viewing experiences.

Key points to consider regarding eyepieces:

Design Type: The letter designation on the eyepiece indicates its design. For instance, P stands for Plössl, which are popular for their wide field of view, making them ideal for nebulae and star clusters.

• Plössl eyepieces provide a great balance of performance and price.
• Orthoscopic (Abbe) eyepieces offer a narrower field of view but excel in planetary and lunar observations.

Focal Length: The number attached to the eyepiece indicates its focal length, which directly affects magnification. To find magnification, divide your telescope’s focal length by the eyepiece’s focal length.

Filters

Filters can enhance contrast and detail in your observations, particularly useful for viewing the moon or planets. Most kits include filters to block specific light wavelengths, helping reduce light pollution and sharpen images of celestial objects.

Barlow Lens

A Barlow lens increases magnification by fitting between your telescope and eyepiece. The most common type doubles magnification, making it easier to observe details during your sessions.

Finderscope

This small tube attaches to the telescope’s top and assists in locating objects before fine-tuning through the eyepiece. Its wider field of view simplifies the search for celestial bodies.

Using telescope accessories

Finderscope Use: Align your telescope toward the general location of your target using a star map, look through the finderscope to locate your object, and adjust your telescope as needed. Once found, switch to your eyepiece for a detailed view.

Eyepiece Use: Calculate magnification, remove any caps, and securely attach your chosen eyepiece. Focus as needed for a clear image.

Filter Use: Attach the filter to the eyepiece barrel before replacing it and make any necessary focusing adjustments.

Barlow Lens Use: Choose the desired magnification, attach the Barlow lens securely, and then connect your eyepiece for enhanced viewing.

Cost of telescope accessory kits

Budget Options

Entry-level kits range from £40 to £80, typically including a few basic eyepieces without a carrying case. The higher end of this range may feature additional filters and a bag.

Mid-Range Kits

These kits, priced between £80 and £160, come with a variety of eyepieces and filters, usually accompanied by a protective case. Cleaning supplies and star guides may also be included.

Premium Kits

High-end kits, costing around £300, are crafted by reputable brands and often contain superior quality accessories. Expect to find several eyepieces, a Barlow lens, and multiple filters, all housed in a durable case.

If your telescope bag is full, look for an accessory kit that comes with its own carrying case for convenience.

Helpful Tips

• Use a small light for accessory changes: In dark environments, having a light source, like a headlamp, makes it easier to manage your accessories.
• Choose useful accessories: Select kits that include pieces you will actually use to avoid unnecessary purchases.
• Invest in quality eyepieces: Higher-quality eyepieces provide clearer, sharper images and are worth the investment for serious astronomers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Do all eyepieces fit all telescopes?

A. No, eyepieces must match the size of your telescope’s focuser barrel, typically 1.25 inches. Adapters are available for mismatched sizes.

Q. Which is better, a 1.25-inch eyepiece or a 2-inch eyepiece?

A. A 2-inch eyepiece provides a wider field of view but requires an adapter for most telescopes that use 1.25-inch eyepieces. The 1.25-inch option is ideal for planetary observations.

Q. Are lens filters necessary?

A. Yes, filters enhance your astronomy experience by reducing glare and improving visibility, making them valuable for observing various celestial objects.