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Scientists as well as hobbyists think of our galaxy as fascinating and extraordinary. The only way to view all of this astonishing creation is to view it using a telescope. This is the only one that allows for enough magnification to make planets and other things in space able to be viewed by the human eye. Some objects in space are so distant that they get classified as a distance in light years, or amount of years it takes for the seeing of this image at any given time on mother earth.

Telescopes, by design, take in light through a tube and then focused so it can be magnified. Therefore, because there are 3 methods in this, there are different telescopes that produce images in different ways. The main types of telescopes are:

• Refractor - This kind is a long tube-like telescope that contains a large lens on the end called an objective lens. This kind uses a series of lenses to refract the light as it comes into the telescope where it can be viewed by the eyepiece. The objective lens on the end can be made of two or more lenses combined in just the right way for strong magnification. These telescopes are simple to keep up with and are very reliable for seeing a slough of planetary objects, stars, and galaxies. The refractor though has its limitations; one cannot view distant galaxies because the refractor is limited in ability. And, the refractor type telescopes are typically more expensive than the others.
• Newtonian Reflector - This type of telescope is completely different than the former in that it takes light into the lens, send it to an opposite side mirror and the reflection is focused and then sent back to the eyepiece for magnification. This type is much stronger than the others and can make it possible to see other galaxies. But, this kind needs a lot of tuning and adjustments. The Newtonian reflector, though, is known to be a bit less expensive than refractors or Catadioptric telescopes.
• Catadioptric - This style includes an arrangement of mirrors and lenses to manipulate beams of light onto a primary mirror and then back to the viewing lens. There is no other telescope stronger than the catadioptric. This kind can magnify pretty much any space object, galaxy, or matter. They are perfect for picking up faraway galaxies, terrestrials, and are powerful enough for terrestrial viewing and photography. This type of telescope can carry a heavy cost and look very different than Newtonian reflectors and refractors.

These instruments are a fascinating piece of technology that makes it possible to see things not of this world. For centuries, people have been fascinated with space and other galaxies and universes. Telescopes make it possible for us to look up at the sky and imagine what it is like light years into the sky.

Jim is a columnist with over 20 years editorial experience. Jim is currently consulting as a publicist with our b2b site and is considered the local specialist on telescopes. Visit our web portal for more information on Telescope and Refractor Telescopes.

Children's: Planets