Do people still use refracting telescopes? 2024 Quick Report

Chris Klein, Amateur Astronomy Advisor

By Chris Klein

Updated:

Are you interested in amateur astronomy? What about investing in a refractor or a reflector telescope? Do people still use refracting telescopes?

Yes, people still use refracting telescopes. Refractors have been used for centuries and are still popular among hobbyists today. The refracting technology is ideal for specialized purposes.

In this article, you get

Help in choosing the right refractor technology

Current uses of refractor telescopes

Types of refracting telescopes

A quick look at the history of refractors

By the end of this article, you’ll understand why refracting telescopes remain an excellent option for night sky observers.

Let’s dive right in.

INTRODUCTION: DO PEOPLE STILL USE REFRACTING TELESCOPES?

Refracting telescopes have been around for centuries.

People still use refractors today.

Refracting lenses are great for specialized purposes, thanks to their small size.

  • Astronomers and others use refractors to observe distant objects in the night sky.
  • Binoculars and zoom camera lenses use refractor technology.

The following sections will explore the history, advantages and disadvantages, types, and current uses of refracting telescopes.

HISTORY OF REFRACTING TELESCOPES

Refracting telescopes have a long and fascinating history.

Hans Lippershey built the first known refracting telescope in the Netherlands in 1608. Within a few years, Galileo Galilei had constructed his own.

Galileo’s telescope used lenses to bend (refract) light to magnify distant objects. Since then, refracting telescopes have been used extensively in astronomy and other fields of science.

Modern versions of the refracting telescope are primarily used for astronomical observation. Some are still in use for other applications like surveillance or industrial inspection.

Their long history makes refractors a vital part of our scientific heritage. They continue to be essential tools for exploration and discovery.

ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF REFRACTING TELESCOPES

ADVANTAGES OF REFRACTING TELESCOPES

  • One of the most significant advantages is that they are relatively simple and easy to use. Their optics are permanently fixed.
  • They offer superior performance in poor conditions. They create good images in dim lighting.
  • Refracting telescopes produce a low image distortion compared to other types of telescopes.

DISADVANTAGES OF REFRACTING TELESCOPES

WHAT IS A REFRACTING TELESCOPE?

A refracting telescope is a type of telescope that uses lenses to refract light and form an image. They gather light from distant objects and focus it through a lens. The focused light then produces an image of the object.

Refractors come in various sizes, from small handheld devices to large, powerful models. They offer excellent image quality and are ideal for observational and astrophotography use.

While refracting telescopes may not be as popular as reflectors due to their size, they remain viable for astronomers wishing to explore the night sky.

CURRENT USE OF REFRACTING TELESCOPES

Although refracting telescopes are less popular than reflector telescopes, here are some reasons people still use them.

  • Refractors are more compact and lightweight than reflectors. Their light weight makes them great if you’re looking for an easy-to-transport telescope.
  • Refractors don’t require frequent maintenance. This low maintenance means they are easier to use and maintain than reflectors.
  • A refractor’s objective lenses don’t collect dust like reflectors. Their image quality is usually better. Higher image quality makes them ideal for viewing planets, stars, and other celestial objects.
  • Refractors offer greater color accuracy than reflectors when viewing the night sky.

TYPES OF REFRACTORS

There are two main categories: doublet and triplet refractors.

Doublet refractors use two lenses, while triplets use three.

Doublets are less expensive, while triplets offer better image quality and greater light-gathering abilities.

Both types of refractors have advantages and disadvantages, which I’ll explore in more detail in the next section.

DOUBLET REFRACTORS

Doublet refractors are great for beginner users as they are usually less expensive than triplet refractors. They also provide good image quality and are lightweight and portable, making them easy to transport.

Doublets can suffer from chromatic aberration. They may not be suitable for more advanced observing applications.

TRIPLET REFRACTORS

Triplet refractors are the more expensive option. They offer more clarity and resolution. Triplet refractors are designed with three lenses to eliminate chromatic aberration and provide superior viewing. They are usually in larger aperture telescopes.

Triplets tend to be heavier than doublets.

Whatever type of telescope you choose, you can be sure that a refractor will provide you with clear, crisp images of deep space objects like galaxies and nebulae.

ELECTRONICALLY-ASSISTED REFRACTORS

Electronically-assisted refractors are a relatively new type of telescope. They offer some significant advantages over traditional refractors.

  • Electronically-assisted telescopes use a combination of lenses and digital technology to provide sharper images and higher contrast levels than traditional refractors.
  • Digital technology allows you to optimize the telescope’s performance in various light conditions, making it easier to observe faint objects.
  • Electronically-assisted refractors offer less chromatic aberration than the traditional design.

For these reasons, electronically-assisted refractors are becoming increasingly popular for amateur astronomers like you and me.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT REFRACTOR TELESCOPE FOR YOU

When choosing the right refractor telescope for you, there are a few things to consider.

  • Consider your budget and what you can afford. Doublet refractors are usually more budget-friendly, while triplet refractors tend to be more expensive.
  • You should also consider the size of the telescope and how portable it is. Refractors are generally lighter and more compact than reflectors, making them easier to transport.
  • Consider any special features you want, such as electronically-assisted options or color fringing reduction.

ARE REFRACTORS STILL USED?

Refractors are in use today, although less widely than they once were. They are primarily used for specialized purposes due to the difficulty of scaling up the size of the telescope and are commonly used in long-focus camera lenses.

They are low maintenance and don’t require regular collimation.

Do you want to spend time adjusting your telescope?

Doublet or triplet refractors are typically sturdy, with non-movable lenses needing little maintenance.

MODERN REFRACTORS

Modern refractors have come a long way since their early days. They are still widely used for specialized applications, such as astrophotography and visual observation.

Many modern refractors use apochromatic lenses, which reduce chromatic aberration, giving you a sharper view of the night sky.

Many modern refractors come with computerized mounts and tracking systems, making finding and observing objects in the sky easier.

When shopping for a modern refractor, it’s essential to consider the size of the telescope, its aperture, and its focal length.

Make sure you get a mount suited to your needs and preferences.

SUMMARY

Refracting telescopes are still in use today, albeit primarily for specialized purposes.

While they offer advantages such as crisp and high-contrast images, their size and cost make them impractical for most general use.

Refractors are great for astrophotography. We amateur astronomers use them!

The right refractor telescope can open up a new world of discovery.

It’s worth considering if you’re looking for a powerful telescope.

If you’re leaning towards a reflector, read my article on when reflecting telescopes are better.

About the Author

Chris Klein, Amateur Astronomy Advisor

Chris Klein is an amateur astronomy advisor, astrophotographer, and entrepreneur. Go here to read his incredible story "From $50,000 in Debt to Award-Winning Photographer Living in Switzerland". If you want to send Chris a quick message, then visit his contact page here.