You probably already have a good understanding of the different kinds of telescopes you can use as an astronomer. But what is the main difference between an 80mm telescope from a 70mm one?
I put this in-depth guide to the major differences between these two beginner telescopes so you can make an informed decision when choosing between them.
The focal length is undoubtedly the primary difference between a 70mm and an 80mm telescope. A 70-mm telescope has a 70mm (2.75 inches) focal length, while an 80-mm telescope has a focal length measuring 80mm (3.1 inches). So you can see more of the night sky with an 80-mm telescope.
Continue reading as I go into more detail and go over the key differences between a 70mm and an 80mm telescope.
What Is the Difference Between a 70mm and an 80mm Telescope?
The following are the major differences between a 70mm and an 80mm telescope:
Focal Length
A telescope’s focal length is the distance between the lens and the point at which the image is focused. A 70 mm telescope has a focal length of 70mm, whereas an 80mm telescope has an 00mm focal length.
This means that an 80-mm telescope can provide a more detailed view of the night sky.
Magnification
The magnification of the telescope is also determined by the aperture size or focal length. A 70mm telescope has a maximum practical magnification of around 140x, while an 80mm telescope has a maximum magnification of 160x.
This means that an 80-mm telescope can provide a better view of distant celestial objects.
Light Gathering Ability
The aperture size influences how much light is collected by the telescope, which in turn influences image quality. As a result, an 80mm telescope can gather more light, allowing you to see faint objects with greater clarity.
The greater the amount of light collected, the sharper and more detailed your images will be.
Price
Because of its larger size, an 80mm telescope usually costs more than its 70mm counterpart. If you are serious about astronomy, however, investing in an 80mm telescope is worthwhile because it provides better views and more features than the 70mm telescope.
Clarity
I must mention that clarity is not the same as magnification. The clarity of an image through your telescope refers to how crisp and detailed it appears.
As a result of its larger aperture and light-gathering power, an 80mm telescope provides better clarity than a 70mm telescope.
However, both the 70mm and 80mm telescopes provide excellent image quality in their class. If you’re new to stargazing, you might not notice the difference between these two sizes.
Portability
While both 70mm and 80mm telescopes are small, an 80mm telescope is typically heavier than a 70mm telescope. This means that if you intend to take your telescope on camping trips or stargazing expeditions, a 70mm telescope may be the best choice.
However, keep in mind that these two telescopes are both in the middle of the portable range. If you intend to take your telescope with you frequently, you should consider purchasing a smaller refractor or even a larger reflector telescope.
Size
Another obvious distinction between these two telescope sizes is their size. A 70mm telescope has a diameter of 70mm, while an 80mm telescope has an 80mm diameter.
This means that an 80-mm telescope has a slightly wider field of view than a 70-mm telescope.
What Can a 70-mm Telescope Do?
A 70mm telescope is an excellent choice for those who are just getting started in the field of astronomy. It is reasonably priced, has adequate light-gathering power, and offers enough magnification to see objects like our moon and planets like Mars.
While you won’t be able to see the most distant galaxies and nebulae, you will be able to see more detail in brighter deep-sky objects. This is an excellent way for beginning astronomers to learn more about our night sky without spending a lot of money.
A 70mm telescope can also produce good astrophotography results. While it is not as powerful as an 80mm or larger telescope, with some practice, you can capture beautiful images of the night sky.
What Can an 80-mm Telescope Do?
An 80mm telescope is ideal for beginner astronomers who want to see the moon and planets like Mars in greater detail. With an 80-mm aperture, you get everything a 70-mm telescope has plus more: higher magnification, improved clarity, and increased light-gathering power.
Furthermore, if you want to start astrophotography with a telescope, an 80mm aperture can make all the difference. You can capture stunning photographs of our night sky with the right equipment and patience.
Is an 80-mm Telescope Better than a 70-mm Telescope?
These two telescopes are in the same class and have comparable capabilities; however, an 80mm telescope has some advantages over a 70mm model. It has more light-gathering power, higher magnification, and better clarity than its smaller counterpart.
A 70mm telescope is more than enough to get you started in astronomy if you’re just starting out. An 80mm telescope, on the other hand, is ideal for observing distant objects or performing astrophotography.
If you can afford an 80-mm telescope, there is no reason not to purchase one. Yes, you can save money by purchasing a 70mm model, but you won’t get the full stargazing experience.
An 80mm telescope is the ideal size for viewing the night sky in all its splendor.
How to Select a 70mm or 80mm Telescope
Choosing the best telescope for your needs is critical. Whether you want an 80-mm or 70-mm telescope, you should always keep the following factors in mind:
Type of Mount
The type of telescope mount is an important consideration that should not be overlooked. The mount you choose will determine how stable and maneuverable your telescope is. Always select a mount that is simple to use and provides enough stability for long-term observations.
Mounts are classified into three types: altazimuth, equatorial, and Dobsonian. The type of mount you select will be determined by your observing requirements.
The altazimuth mount is the least expensive. It frequently includes beginner-level telescopes and basic tracking capabilities.
The equatorial mount, on the other hand, costs more but provides superior tracking accuracy. The Dobsonian mount combines low cost with a sturdy base that allows the telescope tube to move smoothly.
Quality of the Eyepiece
The quality of the eyepieces included with your telescope package can make or break your experience of stargazing. A high-quality eyepiece allows you to see your subject in great detail and with clarity.
Anyone who wants to get the most out of their telescope should invest in a higher-quality eyepiece.
Check the type of eyepieces that come with your 70-mm or 80-mm telescope before purchasing it. You should also consider the magnification and field of view that they provide.
Accessories
Finally, the type of accessories available for each telescope size is an important consideration. Some 70-mm telescopes include extra components that allow you to photograph the night sky with excellent results.
Some 80-mm telescopes, on the other hand, come with astrophotography-specific accessories.
Consider the accessories available for each model when deciding between a 70-mm and an 80-mm telescope. You can ensure that you get the most out of your telescope this way.
Design
Your telescope’s design also has an impact on your overall stargazing experience. A well-designed product ensures smooth movement, stability, and portability.
Small aperture telescopes, such as 70-mm or 80-mm telescopes, are typically lightweight.
Whatever telescope you choose, take into account its design and portability. This way, you can ensure that your telescope is simple to transport and use when you’re out in the field.
FAQ: 70mm vs. 80mm Telescope
What is the primary distinction between a 70-mm and an 80-mm telescope?
The aperture size is the primary difference between a 70-mm and an 80-mm telescope. The aperture of a 70-mm telescope is 2.75 inches, while the diameter of an 80-mm telescope is 3.14 inches.
That is, the 80-mm telescope can collect more light than the 70-mm telescope.
Should I get an 80-mm Telescope?
The need for an 80-mm telescope is determined by your observing requirements. A larger aperture size is required if you want to observe faint deep sky objects.
However, if you’re mostly interested in bright stars and planets, a 70-mm telescope should suffice.
What is the magnification power of a 70-mm telescope?
A 70-mm telescope can provide magnification of up to 140x. This is sufficient to see bright stars, planets, and the moon.
In general, the larger the aperture size, the greater the magnification power.
What is the price of a 70-mm telescope?
The cost of a 70-mm telescope is determined by the brand, model, and type that you select. An entry-level model will set you back between $100 and $300.
Higher-end models may be more expensive.
Is it better to use an 80-mm telescope for astrophotography?
Yes, an 80-mm telescope is preferable for astrophotography. This is due to the fact that it can gather more light than a 70-mm telescope, allowing for higher-quality images.
Furthermore, some 80-mm telescopes include special astrophotography-specific accessories.
What can a 70-mm telescope show me?
A telescope with a focal length of 70 mm is ideal for viewing bright stars, planets, and the moon.
Is an 80-mm telescope more or less heavy than a 70-mm telescope?
Because of its larger aperture size, an 80-mm telescope is typically heavier than a 70-mm telescope. Some modern models, on the other hand, are made of lightweight materials that make them more portable and easy to handle.
Before you buy a model, make sure to check its weight.
Last Thoughts
There are a few differences between a 70-mm and an 80-mm telescope. When deciding between the two, there are a few key factors to consider.
A larger aperture size, such as an 80-mm telescope, will allow you to see more clearly in the sky. Overall, the 80-mm wins, but both are excellent for amateur astronomy.
When you’re ready to buy a telescope, keep your budget and needs in mind so you can find the best model for your needs.
Please be careful and use at your own risk
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