8 Best Telescopes for Sale in South Africa
At Shop Scanner we know that owning a telescope promises not just glimpses of celestial bodies, but a journey of fascination and awe; therefore we tested some telescopes for sale in South Africa to help you choose the best one.
Telescopes open a portal to the cosmos, offering us a glimpse into the vast mysteries of the universe from the comfort of our own surroundings.
Beyond their optical abilities lies the profound value of exploration and discovery â whether peering at distant galaxies, observing the serene surface of the Moon, or tracking the dance of planets across the night sky.
You might also be interested in our Celestron telescopes, Meade telescopes and National geographic telescopes.
Our Picks of Telescopes for Sale
- National Geographic 70Ă900 Refractor Telescope UG5033
- National Geographic 114Ă500 Compact Telescope UG5024
- Celestron Starsense Explorer 8” Dobsonian
- Celestron 130 EQ AstroMaster Reflector Telescope
- Meade Telescope Polaris 114mm Reflector
- National Geographic 70/400 Telescope White UG5055
- Celestron Starsense Explorer DX 130AZ
- Meade Telescope Infinity 70mm Altazimuth Refractor
National Geographic 70x900 Refractor Telescope UG5033
The National Geographic 70Ă900 Refractor Telescope UG5033, for sale in South Africa, is a versatile instrument for both beginners and intermediate astronomers. Featuring a 70mm aperture and 900mm focal length, it offers clear and detailed views of celestial objects. Its altazimuth mount and aluminium tripod ensure stability and ease of use during observations. This telescope is available for purchase online at competitive prices, making it a cost-effective option for stargazing enthusiasts.
- Aperture: 70mm
- Focal length: 900mm
- Focal ratio: f/12.9
- Eyepiece 1: 10mm (90x magnification)
- Eyepiece 2: 25mm (36x magnification)
- Optical design: Refractor
- Mount type: Altazimuth
- Tripod material: Aluminium
- Easy setup and use
- Ideal for beginners and intermediate users
- Suitable for viewing the moon and planets
- Lightweight and portable design
- Stable viewing with altazimuth mount
- Affordable price point
- Durable construction for long-term use
Should I Buy the National Geographic 70Ă900 Refractor Telescope UG5033?
The National Geographic 70Ă900 Refractor Telescope UG5033 is a good buy for budget-conscious beginners and intermediate users. Its clear optics and straightforward setup make it user-friendly and ideal for general stargazing and educational purposes. However, those seeking advanced features or deep-sky observations might find this model limiting due to its basic eyepieces and manual mount.
Frequently Asked Questions
This telescope is suitable for viewing the moon, planets, and some bright deep-sky objects.
Yes, it includes two eyepieces (10mm and 25mm) and an aluminium tripod.
Yes, its altazimuth mount and lightweight tripod make it easy to assemble and use.
- Pros
- Clear 70mm aperture
- Long 900mm focal length
- Easy-to-use altazimuth mount
- Lightweight aluminium tripod
- Affordable price
- Cons
- Limited to basic astronomy
- Not ideal for deep-sky objects
- No motorized tracking
- May require frequent adjustments
- Basic eyepieces included
National Geographic 114x500 Compact Telescope UG5024
The National Geographic 114Ă500 Compact Telescope UG5024, for sale in South Africa, is a powerful yet portable telescope ideal for beginner and intermediate astronomers. With a 114mm aperture and a 500mm focal length, it offers bright and detailed views of celestial objects. Featuring an f/4.4 focal ratio and two eyepieces (24mm for 21x magnification and 9mm for 56x magnification), it provides versatile viewing options.
This telescope is available at competitive prices online, making it a cost-effective choice for those looking to buy a reliable and compact telescope.
- Aperture: 114mm
- Focal length: 500mm
- Focal ratio: f/4.4
- Eyepiece 1: 24mm (21x magnification)
- Eyepiece 2: 9mm (56x magnification)
- Optical design: Reflector
- Mount: Altazimuth
- Tripod: Aluminium
- Red dot viewfinder included
- Compact and portable design
- Easy setup
- User-friendly for beginners and intermediates
- Lightweight construction
- Suitable for both celestial and terrestrial viewing
- Available for purchase online at competitive prices
Should I Buy the National Geographic 114Ă500 Compact Telescope UG5024?
The National Geographic 114Ă500 Compact Telescope UG5024 is a good buy for beginners and intermediates seeking an affordable, portable telescope with decent performance. Its 114mm aperture and compact design make it ideal for casual stargazing and educational purposes, providing a user-friendly experience.
However, advanced astronomers requiring higher magnification or more stable mounts might find this model limiting and should consider other options.
Frequently Asked Questions
The aperture is 114mm, providing bright and detailed views.
Yes, its easy setup and user-friendly design make it ideal for beginners.
It uses an altazimuth mount for easy navigation and tracking.
- Pros
- Large 114mm aperture
- Compact and portable design
- Affordable cost
- Easy setup and user-friendly
- Suitable for beginners and intermediates
- Cons
- Limited to altazimuth mount
- Lower magnification range
- Basic eyepieces included
- Not ideal for advanced astrophotography
- Aluminium tripod may lack stability
Celestron Starsense Explorer 8” Dobsonian
The Celestron Starsense Explorer 8âł Dobsonian, available in South Africa, is perfect for amateur astronomers. Its 203mm aperture and 1200mm focal length provide excellent light-gathering and detailed views, while the StarSense Explorer App and XLT optical coatings enhance its ease of use and reliability.
- Optical Design: Newtonian Reflector
- Aperture: 203mm
- Focal Length: 1200mm
- Focal Ratio: f/5.9
- Magnification of Eyepiece 1: 48x
- Highest Useful Magnification: 480x
- Lowest Useful Magnification: 29x
- Limiting Stellar Magnitude: 14.2
- Light Gathering Power: 841x compared to the human eye
- Mirror Material: Pyrex equivalent for primary and secondary mirrors
- Focuser: 2âł Crayford focuser, includes 2âł extension tube and 2âł-to-1.25âł adapter
- Finderscope: StarPointer™ red-dot finderscope
- Mount Type: Altazimuth Dobsonian base
- Software: Celestron Starry Night Basic Edition Software and StarSense Explorer App
Should I Buy the Celestron Starsense Explorer 8” Dobsonian?
The Celestron Starsense Explorer 8âł Dobsonian is ideal for astronomy enthusiasts seeking advanced features and powerful optics, making it great for detailed night sky observations. However, its size and weight may not suit those needing portability or on a tight budget, best for enthusiasts valuing durability and performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest useful magnification is 480x.
It uses XLT reflective coatings with silicon dioxide and tantalum pentoxide protective overcoating.
- Pros
- Large 203mm aperture
- User-friendly StarSense Explorer App
- High-quality XLT optical coatings
- Excellent light-gathering power
- Durable steel tube material
- Cons
- Heavy total weight (19.68kg)
- Manual slew speeds only
- Bulky base material (particle board)
- Requires assembly and setup
- Higher cost compared to smaller models
Celestron 130 EQ AstroMaster Reflector Telescope
The Celestron 130 EQ AstroMaster Reflector Telescope, available in South Africa, is ideal for beginner and intermediate astronomers. With a 130mm aperture and 650mm focal length, it provides clear views of celestial objects. Its equatorial mount and StarPointer finderscope simplify star tracking. Itâs a reliable and affordable choice for anyone seeking a quality telescope.
- Optical Design: Newtonian Reflector
- Aperture: 130mm
- Focal Length: 650mm
- Focal Ratio: f/5
- Magnification of Eyepiece 1: 33x
- Magnification of Eyepiece 2: 65x
- Highest Useful Magnification: 307x
- Lowest Useful Magnification: 19x
- Limiting Stellar Magnitude: 13.1
- Light Gathering Power: 345x compared to the human eye
- Optical Coatings: Aluminum
- Finderscope: Built-on StarPointer
- Mount Type: CG-3 Equatorial
- Optical Tube Length: 24 inches
Should I Buy the Celestron 130 EQ AstroMaster Reflector Telescope?
The Celestron 130 EQ AstroMaster Reflector Telescope offers affordability and performance with its 130mm aperture and 650mm focal length, ideal for observing faint celestial objects. Itâs user-friendly for beginners and satisfying for intermediate users, though additional accessories may be required for advanced features or tighter budgets.
Frequently Asked Questions
It uses a CG-3 equatorial mount for precise tracking of celestial objects.
The optical tube length is 24 inches (610 mm).
- Pros
- Large 130mm aperture
- High-quality coated optics
- Easy no-tool setup
- Stable 1.25âł steel tube legs tripod
- Suitable for both terrestrial and astronomical use
- Cons
- Manual tracking
- Heavier mount
- Limited field of view
- Lower magnification eyepieces included
- Requires additional accessories for full potential
Meade Telescope Polaris 114mm Reflector
The Meade Telescope Polaris 114mm Reflector, for sale in South Africa, is an excellent choice for astronomy enthusiasts looking for a balance of performance and affordability. With a 114mm aperture and 1000mm focal length, it provides clear, detailed views of celestial objects. Its stable equatorial mount with slow-motion controls and Red Dot Viewfinder make tracking stars and planets easy and precise. Available for purchase online, it is ideal for both beginners and intermediate astronomers.
- Optical Design: Newtonian Reflector
- Aperture: 114mm (4.5”)
- Focal Length: 1000mm
- Focal Ratio: f/8.85
- Eyepieces: Three 1.25âł MA (26mm, 9mm, 6.3mm) with 2x Barlow lens
- Viewfinder: Red Dot Viewfinder included
- Focuser: Rack and pinion mechanism
- Tripod: Pre-assembled full-height tripod with stainless-steel tube legs
- Mount: Stable equatorial mount with slow-motion controls
Should I Buy the Meade Telescope Polaris 114mm Reflector?
The Meade Telescope Polaris 114mm Reflector is a good buy for budget-conscious beginners and intermediate users looking for a user-friendly, durable telescope for casual stargazing. Its specifications, including a 114mm aperture and stable equatorial mount, make it suitable for those who prioritise ease of use and affordability.
However, those seeking advanced features or portability might want to consider other options.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Meade Telescope Polaris 114mm Reflector uses a Newtonian Reflector design.
It includes three 1.25âł MA eyepieces: 26mm, 9mm, and 6.3mm, with a 2x Barlow lens.
Yes, it comes with a pre-assembled full-height tripod with stainless-steel tube legs.
- Pros
- Good light gathering
- Stable equatorial mount
- Includes three eyepieces
- Precise slow-motion controls
- Affordable price
- Cons
- Not for advanced users
- Limited accessories
- Manual operation only
- Bulky for travel
- Basic optics
National Geographic 70/400 Telescope White UG5055
The National Geographic 70/400 Telescope White UG5055, for sale in South Africa, is a versatile refractor telescope designed for both celestial and terrestrial observations. With a 70mm lens diameter and 400mm focal length, it offers clear and detailed views. This telescope includes two eyepieces, a 3x Barlow lens, and a moon filter for enhanced viewing experiences.
Ideal for beginners, it features a sturdy aluminium tripod, finderscope, and diagonal mirror for comfortable and stable observations at competitive prices.
- Refractor telescope design
- 70mm lens diameter
- 400mm focal length
- Aperture value of f/5.7
- Includes two eyepieces: 20mm and 10mm
- 20x and 40x magnification with eyepieces
- 3x Barlow lens for 60x and 120x magnification
- Finderscope for locating objects in the sky
- Erecting lens for terrestrial observations
- Diagonal mirror for comfortable viewing
- Moon filter for reducing glare and enhancing details
- Sturdy aluminium tripod for stability and adjustability
- Lightweight and portable design
- Suitable for both astronomical and natural observations
- Easy setup and user-friendly
Should I Buy the National Geographic 70/400 Telescope White UG5055?
The National Geographic 70/400 Telescope White UG5055 is a good buy for beginners looking for an affordable, user-friendly telescope. Its lightweight, portable design, and versatile magnification options make it suitable for casual stargazing and nature observations.
However, advanced users may find it lacking in features like motorised tracking and higher aperture, making it less ideal for detailed deep-sky exploration.
Frequently Asked Questions
The focal length is 400mm.
The maximum magnification is 120x with the 3x Barlow lens.
Yes, it includes a sturdy aluminium tripod for stability and adjustability.
- Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Includes moon filter
- Sturdy aluminium tripod
- Easy setup and user-friendly
- Ideal for both celestial and terrestrial views
- Cons
- Limited magnification options
- Basic eyepieces included
- Not suitable for advanced astronomy
- No motorised tracking
- Lower aperture value for deep-sky
Celestron Starsense Explorer DX 130AZ
The Celestron Starsense Explorer DX 130AZ, available in South Africa, is a versatile telescope for beginners and intermediates. Featuring a 130mm aperture and 650mm focal length, it offers clear views and integrates with the StarSense Explorer app for smartphone-guided celestial navigation. Ideal for those seeking an affordable and reliable telescope online.
- Optical Design: Newtonian Reflector
- Aperture: 130mm
- Focal Length: 650mm
- Focal Ratio: f/5
- Focal Length of Eyepiece 1: 25mm
- Magnification of Eyepiece 1: 26x
- Focal Length of Eyepiece 2: 10mm
- Magnification of Eyepiece 2: 65x
- Finderscope: StarPointer™ red dot finderscope
- Highest Useful Magnification: 307x
- Lowest Useful Magnification: 19x
- Light Gathering Power: 345x compared to the human eye
- Optical Coatings: Aluminum and SiO2 coated glass mirrors
- Optical Tube Length: 635mm
Should I Buy the Celestron Starsense Explorer DX 130AZ?
The Celestron Starsense Explorer DX 130AZ is perfect for budget-conscious beginners, offering a 130mm aperture and StarSense Explorer app compatibility for easy celestial viewing. Advanced users may prefer other models for motorised tracking and additional features. Ideal for hobbyists valuing ease of use and portability.
Frequently Asked Questions
It uses the StarSense Explorer app and your smartphoneâs GPS for easy object location.
No, but itâs recommended to use a PowerTank Glow to keep your phone charged while using the app.
- Pros
- Easy to use with app
- High-quality aluminium-coated optics
- Lightweight and portable
- Affordable cost
- Cons
- No motorized tracking
- Requires smartphone for full functionality
- Manual alignment
- Limited accessories included
Meade Telescope Infinity 70mm Altazimuth Refractor
The Meade Telescope Infinity 70mm Altazimuth Refractor, for sale in South Africa, is a versatile and user-friendly telescope perfect for both land and celestial observation. With a 70mm aperture, it delivers bright images, ideal for viewing the moon, planets, and terrestrial objects.
Featuring an altazimuth mount with a slow-motion control rod, it allows smooth tracking of celestial objects across the night sky. Available for purchase online, it includes two eyepieces and a 2x Barlow lens, offering excellent value at competitive prices.
- Optical Design: Altazimuth Refractor
- Aperture: 70mm (2.8”)
- Focal Length: 700mm
- Focal Ratio: f/10
- Mount Type: Altazimuth with slow-motion control rod
- Eyepieces: Two (26mm and 9mm)
- Magnification: 27x and 78x with eyepieces
- Barlow Lens: 2x, doubling the magnification
- Red Dot Viewfinder: Included for easy object location
- Tripod: Pre-assembled full height with adjustable legs
- Objective Lens: Achromatic
- Coatings: Fully coated optics
- Weight: Lightweight and portable
- Use: Suitable for both land and celestial observation
- Accessories: Includes everything needed for first-time use
Should I Buy the Meade Telescope Infinity 70mm Altazimuth Refractor?
The Meade Telescope Infinity 70mm Altazimuth Refractor is a good buy for beginners and casual observers seeking an affordable and user-friendly telescope. Its easy setup, lightweight design, and versatile use for both land and celestial observation make it suitable for those on a budget. However, advanced users or those needing more powerful optics and motorised tracking might find its capabilities limiting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Its easy setup and user-friendly design make it ideal for beginners.
Yes, its 70mm aperture delivers bright images suitable for both land and celestial observation.
Yes, it includes a red dot viewfinder to help locate objects easily.
- Pros
- Easy to use
- Lightweight design
- Altazimuth mount
- Red dot viewfinder
- Affordable price
- Cons
- Limited aperture
- Basic optics
- Not for advanced users
- No motorised tracking
- Limited lifetime use
Conclusion
When choosing a telescope, preferences often align with budget, space constraints, and specific observational needs. A compact telescope like the National Geographic 114Ă500 Compact Telescope suits those seeking portability without sacrificing power, making it ideal for urban environments.
For those interested in deep-sky observation, the Celestron Starsense Explorer 8” Dobsonian offers substantial aperture and ease of use under dark skies.
Beginners might prefer the simplicity of the Celestron Starsense Explorer DX 130AZ, which combines affordability with automatic alignment technology for quick setup and enjoyable stargazing experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of telescope is best for beginners?
Beginners often find refractor telescopes ideal due to their ease of use and low maintenance. These telescopes offer crisp, clear views and are generally more forgiving in terms of setup and alignment.
What should I consider when choosing a telescope?
Consider factors like aperture size, which determines light-gathering ability, and focal length for magnification. Portability, ease of assembly, and included accessories like eyepieces and mounts are also crucial.
Can I use a telescope for both terrestrial and celestial viewing?
While telescopes are primarily designed for celestial observation, many models can be adapted for terrestrial use with the right accessories. However, terrestrial viewing may require additional adjustments.
What is the difference between refractor and reflector telescopes?
Refractor telescopes use lenses to gather and focus light, offering sharp images but often at higher costs for larger apertures. Reflectors use mirrors and are more affordable for larger apertures but may require occasional collimation.
Do telescopes require maintenance?
Yes, telescopes, particularly reflectors, may require occasional collimation to align the mirrors properly. Regular cleaning of optics and proper storage in a dry, dust-free environment also helps maintain performance.
