Find your first telescope

Answer five quick questions and we'll suggest the types of telescopes, binoculars and accessories that fit your budget, sky and goals — with links to browse current options.

Disclosure: Product links go to Amazon search results. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. We suggest types of gear rather than specific models, and we don't list prices — check current prices and reviews on the retailer's page. Learn more.

Makemake itself (magnitude ~17) is beyond beginner equipment. These picks are for enjoying the night sky — the Moon, planets, star clusters and the galaxies around Coma Berenices, where Makemake currently lies.

1/5 What's your budget?

Under $150$150 – $400$400 – $1,000$1,000+

2/5 How much experience do you have?

Total beginnerI know a few constellationsI've used a telescope before

3/5 What are your skies like?

City — bright, few starsSuburbs — Milky Way faint or hiddenDark rural skies

4/5 What do you most want to see or do?

Moon & planetsGalaxies, nebulae & clustersTake astrophotosA bit of everything

5/5 How portable does it need to be?

Grab-and-go / travelFits in a carMostly backyard use

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How the picker works

Your answers filter a list of common telescope and binocular categories by budget band, then rank them by how well they suit your experience, sky conditions, goals and portability needs. Budget bands are rough guides only; prices vary by retailer and change often. Recommendations are general guidance, not professional advice.