Backyard Stargazing Gear

Best Telescopes for Intermediate Observers

Our picks for intermediate observers — matched to skill, budget, and what you'll actually want to look at.

Telescopes·Premium

Celestron NexStar 4SE

A computerized GoTo scope that finds 40,000+ objects for you — the classic first 'serious' telescope.

Telescopes·Mid-range

Sky-Watcher Classic 6" Dobsonian

The most aperture-per-dollar in astronomy, on a mount even a beginner can't get wrong.