Go Astronomy: Choosing Binoculars

Choosing Binoculars for Astronomy

Binoculars are an inexpensive, perhaps essential, way to get started in astronomy. Many people consider binoculars to be a necessity and will recommend learning the constellations and how to find night-sky objects first using binoculars before going out and buying a telescope. Even when using a telescope, your star-gazing will be enhanced by the ease of use and wide field of view of having a good pair of binoculars with you.

Astronomy is kind of a special application for binoculars. Binoculars sold at sports stores or department stores aren't suited for night-sky viewing - their optics just aren't up to par. Plan to spend an absolute minimum of $100 for a decent pair of binoculars for astronomy from a reputable camera or telescope store. Also see Price Categories for Binoculars.

The best all-around binoculars for astronomy are either 7x50 or 10x50. 7x50 binoculars will give you an exit pupil of 7mm, which is the largest you want to use. 10x50 binoculars have a 5mm exit pupil, which is even better. If you are over 40 years old, your maximum dilated pupil size at night will probably be closer to 5mm. The smaller the exit pupil, the brighter the image will be, but the closer your eye must also be to the eyepiece, which can make them harder for some people to use.

Do's for Buying Binoculars

Dont's for Buying Binoculars

If you have the budget, also consider image-stabilized binoculars.

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