If you have even a basic knowledge of astronomy, you know that there are a number of different types of telescopes used for viewing the cosmos.  If you aren’t familiar with the more popluar telescopes, it is the refracting and reflecting telescopes that are representative of the two basic models of telescopes called on by today’s beginner and professional astronomers.   Of these two telescopes, the refracting telescope has the longest history and has been in use for centuries.   This telescopes origins can be traced back to the 15th century and continues to be a very commonly used telescope in the 21st century.  In fact, the refracting telescope is one of the oldest telescope designs still in use by today’s astronomers.

The Workings of a Refractor Telescope

The refracting telescope, sometimes referred to as a refractor telescope, consists of multiple concave lenses which allow the incoming light to be refracted, resulting in images that are brighter and greater in size.  These qualities give the appearance that the actual images appear much bigger than viewing with the naked eye.   These refractors gather the incoming light and bend it, allowing you to view objects from a distance.  This magnification is what provides you with the ability to clearly view the stars and night sky. Even though refracting telescopes may have a lot of bells and whistles, the truth is that they are basically a series of concave lenses that refract the light.

The Advantages of a Refractor Telescope

This telescope’s design has withstood the test of time, with numerous improvements and enhancements.   Throuhout the years, its design was continuously analyzed, resulting in continuous improvement of its design and magnification abilities.  This was a great advantage, providing astronomers with the a chance to derive the refracting telescope design’s strengths and weaknesses.

This telescope design has been improved dramatically since the fifteenth century.  Even with the improvement of refractor technology, it is the size of the refractor telescope that still appears to be a drawback with this telescope design.  As the need for increased magnification has presented itself, the refractor lens has become larger.  This can result in the potential for defects or sagging.

The truth is that refracting telescopes have proven themselves across the centuries and, to attest to their value, have remained one of the most popular designs among astronomers.  Regardless of the type of telescope you choose to scan the cosmos, the ongoing use and popularity of the refracting telescope provides assurance that it will be with us for decades to come.

Finding a Refracting Telescope

If you are like most budding astronomers, it can be confusing trying to select the best refractor telescope for the money.  But what we found was that visiting telescope and astronomy websites that provide telescope reviews can be very helpful in making your decision.  So, whether you are considering a kids telescope or professional model, be sure to do your research and you will be assured of enjoying many hours of star gazing pleasure.