What is a good telescope to see planets?

What kind of telescope do I need to see planets?

Telescopes that have 4 or 5 inch diameters are great for viewing solar system objects like the planets, our Moon, and Jupiter's moons. Viewing Neptune and Uranus can be difficult with a scope this small but it's not impossible. A telescope of this size is probably a good starting point for a complete beginner.

What magnification telescope do I need to see planets?

Experienced planetary observers use 20x to 30x per inch of aperture to see the most planetary detail. Double-star observers go higher, up to 50x per inch (which corresponds to a ½-mm exit pupil). Beyond this, telescope magnification power and eye limitations degrade the view.

What magnification do I need to see the rings of Saturn?

25x The rings of Saturn should be visible in even the smallest telescope at 25x [magnified by 25 times]. A good 3-inch scope at 50x [magnified by 50 times] can show them as a separate structure detached on all sides from the ball of the planet.

How big of a telescope do I need to see Jupiter?

A well-made 5-inch refractor or 6-inch reflector on a sturdy tracking mount is really about the minimum for serious Jupiter observing. Larger instruments will allow scrutiny of fine detail and subtle low-contrast markings.

What can you see with a 700mm telescope?

With a 70mm telescope, you will easily be able to see every planet in the Solar System. You will also be able to take a great look at the Moon and clearly distinguish most of its recognizable features and craters. Mars will look great.

What can you see with a 100mm telescope?

What Can You Expect From 100mm Telescopes? (With Photos)

  • The maximum magnitude of a 100mm telescope is 13.6. For reference, the Moon has a magnitude of -12.74 and Mars has a magnitude of -2.6. …
  • The Moon. The Moon looks amazing in these telescopes. …
  • Mars. …
  • Venus. …
  • Jupiter. …
  • Saturn and Neptune. …
  • Pluto and Dwarf Planets. …
  • Mercury.

Is a 700mm telescope good?

With a 70mm telescope, you will easily be able to see every planet in the Solar System. You will also be able to take a great look at the Moon and clearly distinguish most of its recognizable features and craters. Mars will look great.

What can you see with a 70mm telescope?

The colorful bands and belts of Jupiter, as well as its four major moons, and the rings of Saturn are clearly visible in a 70mm telescope. Mars, Venus and Mercury are visible in a small scope as well, but are extremely reluctant to give up any detail because of their overwhelming brightness.