All the Gear You Need To See Stars, Planets, and Meteor Showers in the Darkest Corners of the Country

11.09.2023 - 17:47 / matadornetwork.com

If conditions are favourable, you don’t need much for a simple astronomy exploration. However, it can be a lot more comfortable and rewarding with a little planning and some key items of stargazing equipment. There’s a few essential pieces that will dramatically change your experience in a dark sky area.

Visual aids such as a decent set of binoculars and a trustworthy telescope capture more light than human eyesight, helping you see deep sky objects and gather valuable data, and insights into the cosmos. A red light is vital to protect our scotopic vision and the surrounding environment from light pollution. Investing in a handheld torch or headlamp will dramatically enhance your experience under the night sky. Complement this tech with a star gazing app. There’s a few on the market, but those below have revolutionized engagement with the cosmos and made stargazing more accessible and enjoyable than ever before. Lastly, as well as packing comfortable clothing and all important snacks, you might consider investing in a stargazing tent. Many of these shelters offer unobstructed views through inbuilt windows giving you protection and freedom to camp and stargaze from anywhere.

You don’t need to spend a fortune on the basics, either. The stargazing equipment listed here has been selected for its value for money, award-winning design and quality, ease of use, and durability.

We hope you love the stargazing equipment we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to purchase. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Binoculars provide a magnified view of celestial objects, allowing you to see finer details that may not be visible to the naked eye. If you’re not ready to invest in a telescope or need a light and compact alternative, getting a decent set of binoculars set will hugely enhance your stargazing experience. For those who are dipping their toe in, it’s worth considering a more affordable option such as the Celestron SkyMaster. They are also multifunctional, so you can use them for other hobbies too. The more expensive products listed here are an investment. But the hefty price tag comes with enhanced technology, top-tier manufacturing, and rave customer reviews.

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Celestron’s SkyMaster binoculars are specifically designed for astronomical viewing. Perfect for a seasoned astronomer or a beginner, they are user-friendly and versatile.

The large 70mm objective lenses, allow for enhanced light-gathering capabilities. This means you’ll enjoy brighter and clearer views of celestial objects, including stars, planets, and even distant galaxies. With a powerful 15x magnification, you can easily spot details that