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An optical telescope gathers and focuses light mainly from the visible part of the electromagnetic spectrum (although some work in the infrared and ultraviolet). Optical telescopes increase the apparent angular size of distant objects as well as their apparent brightness. In order for the image to be observed, photographed and studied, telescopes work by employing one or more curved optical elements—usually made from glass—lenses, or mirrors to gather light to bring that light or radiation to a focal point. Optical telescopes are used for astronomy and in many non-astronomical instruments, including: spotting scopes, monoculars and binoculars.



basic telescope types


Refracting Telescopes

Pros:
  • Great for moon, planets, and stars
  • Require almost no maintenance
  • Classic telescope design
Cons:
  • Most expensive per inch of aperture
  • Less suited for faint, deep-sky objects

Reflecting Telescopes

Pros:
  • Least expensive per inch of aperture
  • Large apertures for deep-sky viewing
  • Reasonably compact and portable
  • Delivers very bright images
Cons:
  • Not too well suited for terrestrial viewing
  • Slight light loss due to mirror system
  • May need simple mirror alignment

Catadioptric Telescopes

Pros:
  • Easy to use, compact and portable
  • Excellent optics provide sharp images
  • Great for astrophotography
  • Best telescope design
Cons:
  • Expensive
  • Unusual appearance





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