When you want to observe the flora and fauna around you in detail, a spotting scope can be very interesting . Contrary to what you might think, it doesn't require complicated maintenance. It's an object with which you can learn while having a great time.
But how do we choose the best one? Depending on how we intend to use it, we'll need to choose the one that best suits our needs.
Learn how to choose a spotting scope
Telescope parts
Every telescope is made up of different parts that are:
- Tripod: it is a set of three legs that are usually metallic. Thanks to them, the telescope remains stable.
- Mount: This is the mechanical part that connects the tripod to the optical tube. They can be manual (movements are performed manually), motorized (movements are performed by motors on one or two axes), or computerized (using a GoTo or GPS system). There are two types:
- Altazimuthal: performs horizontal and vertical movement.
- Dobsonian: they are mounted on a platform that allows horizontal and vertical movements. They do not require a tripod.
- Single arm and fork: these are those that hold the optical tube from the side through one or two arms.
- Equatorial: one of its axes, that of Right Ascension or RA, is arranged parallel to the axis of rotation of the Earth.
- Altazimuthal: performs horizontal and vertical movement.
- Optical tube: it is made up of lenses or mirrors and the eyepiece holder.
- Search: it is a small elongated object that is placed on the tube that allows us to search in detail for what we want to see.
Types of optical tubes
Depending on the optical tube, there are also three types:
- Reflector: Also called Newtonians, they use a mirror to capture light. It is the one most used in astronomy.
- Retro-reflector: use a combination of mirrors and correction lens.
- refractor: they use a converging lens system in which light is refracted. It is the one used for terrestrial observation.
Why choose a spotting scope over binoculars?
Well, you can enjoy both a lot, but there are three important differences between them:
- Optical tube diameter: is the diameter of the mirror. The higher it is, the more light it can capture. In the case of the spotting scope, it is recommended that it be at least 40mm. They make binoculars with that diameter, but they weigh a lot (I have about 10mm and when I have been around 30 minutes I already start to notice the fatigue in my wrists).
- Focal distance: is the length of the tube. It is also measured in mm. It can be 100mm, 200mm, etc. The longer it is, the longer it will take for the light to reach the mirror. It does not necessarily have to be very long to be a good instrument. In fact, the main thing to look at is the diameter of the tube.
- Increases: is the magnification of the image. In the case of spotting scopes, they can also include zoom eyepieces capable of further magnifying the image. If we see, for example, that it indicates 30-70x, we can know that the normal magnification value is 30, but that it can reach 70 by zooming.
What to look at before choosing one?
Besides what we've discussed so far, we also need to consider the field of view . The higher the magnification, the smaller the field of view. On the one hand, the image will appear larger and sharper, but we'll only be able to focus on a few details.
The viewing angle is also important . Observation should be comfortable, so it's recommended to choose a model that raises the eyepiece by 45 degrees. This will allow the telescope to remain more stable, which is especially important on windy days.
Finally, and although they are quite expensive, it's worth taking a look (and the pun is intended) at extra-low dispersion (ED) lenses . These lenses allow for a very high-quality image, thus solving the typical problem of refracting telescopes: chromatic aberration.
What can be used?
Terrestrial telescopes are used to observe nature , to spot birds , or even to view some celestial objects , such as the moon or stars (the sun can also be seen, but only with a filter). Another increasingly popular use is digiscoping , which involves attaching a camera to the optical tube to take high-quality photographs.
Can objects or animals be seen very far away?
Image - Alarconweb.com
Yes, no problem . In fact, that's precisely what they're used for. Ground-based telescopes are very useful tools for seeing very far away without moving from your spot. What we can see might be several miles away.
A statute mile, or international mile as it is sometimes known, is a unit of length that, while not widely used, can be very useful for our purposes. It is equivalent to approximately 1480 meters , which is about the length of a step of 73 centimeters.
With this, we can get an idea of ​​how far away what we are seeing is.
Selection of spotting scopes
If you still have doubts about which one to buy, then we leave you with our selection:
With tripod
30-90 × 90 Zoom Telescope with Tripod
This is undoubtedly a good telescope. With a 90mm aperture and the ability to magnify the image up to 90x, you'll be able to observe nature like never before. Plus, it comes with a tripod, so you don't have to buy one separately.
It weighs 1850 grams and costs €109 . Want it? Click here
Celestron TravelScope 70
This Celestron telescope is incredible. Not only can you use it for terrestrial observation, but also for basic astronomical observation thanks to its 70mm aperture, 400mm length, and zoom.
It weighs 1,5 kg and costs €84,91 . Get it now!
USCAMEL Telescope for bird watching
If you're looking for a telescope that's easy to carry, discreet, waterproof, and lets you see birds in detail... you're not asking for the impossible! The USCAMEL telescope we recommend has a 20-60x magnification, is green, and comes with a tripod.
It weighs just 640 grams and costs €159 . Interested? Buy it now!
without tripod
Celestron Ultima 65
If you don't want to carry a lot of gear but still want the sharpest possible image, this telescope is for you. It has an 18-55x zoom and includes a soft carrying case to keep it protected during transport.
It weighs 2kg and costs €149 . Get it here .
Nikon Postaff 5 82-A
This Nikon telescope is specially designed for comfortable viewing. You won't have any problems with fog or rain. With its 8,2cm objective lens, birdwatching will be an incredible experience.
It weighs 960 grams and costs 388 euros . You can get it here.
Bresser 4334500 Spektar
Perfect for travel, excursions, and basically any outdoor adventure. It doesn't need a tripod, as it has a 15-45x60 zoom lens . And if that weren't enough, it includes a carrying case, making it easy to take wherever you go.
It weighs 1,1 kg and costs €94,64 . If you want it, buy it.
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