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This is part of a series of features about new year tech projects and challenges for 2025.
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The Seestar S50 (above) is one of the new breed of smart telescopes, but simpler tabletop Dobsonian telescopes like the ones recommended above cost half as much.
Theres nothing quite like looking up at the night sky.
Its always brought me a deep sense of peace and wonder, especially during difficult times.
And, like many people, Ive developed a strong connection to the Moon.
The Seestar S50 (above) is one of the new breed of smart telescopes, but simpler tabletop Dobsonian telescopes like the ones recommended above cost half as much.
But as much as Ive loved using apps to enhance my stargazing, Ive been yearning for something more.
A few years ago, a very kind friend gave me a telescope for my birthday.
The best telescope is the one youll actually use."
This is what amateur astronomer and astrophotographer Nazmus Nasir, known asNaztronomyonline, tells me.
Otherwise itll just end up gathering dust as mine has been doing for two years.
PhotographerRebecca Douglasshares her top tips:1.
Stabilize your phone:Use a tripod or prop it against a sturdy surface.
Edit your photos:Use built-in tools to enhance saturation, contrast, and sharpness for more detail.
Visit an amateur astronomy club or a star party.
Talk to people who already have telescopes.
If they have observing nights, try viewing a few objects through them.
Too many people buy expensive telescopes they never use.
For beginners, Naz recommends tabletop Dobsonian telescopes.
Theyre a really great starter punch in of scope, he explains.
They’re easy to set up and can provide excellent views of celestial objects.
You could also consider a refractor telescope.
Naz suggests starting with a small, wide-field scope.
Instead, look for reputable brands, like Celestron, Apertura, Astro-Tech, and Sky-Watcher.
While some of these can be pricey, their quality is leagues ahead of budget options.
Once youve chosen a telescope, consider upgrading your setup with a sturdy mount or tripod.
A mount with slow-motion controls makes it easier to track objects, says Naz.
For even more precision, a tracking mount with go-to capabilities is a game-changer.
If youre interested in instant gratification,smart telescopes, like the Seestar S50, are worth exploring.
These compact, automated devices handle everything for you, from locating celestial objects to taking and stacking photos.
But theyre perfect for beginners looking for quick results.
Luckily, you dont need a lot of new gear to get started.
For moon and planets, a single exposure would be fine.
If youre ready to move beyond your phone, consider investing in one of thebest DSLRsorbest mirrorless cameras.
Learn to use the manual mode, Naz advises.
Experiment with ISO tweaks and exposure times to achieve different results.
Some good starting configs and tips can be found in ourguide to photographing the Blue Moon and Milky Way.
Dedicated t-adapters can also connect your camera to your telescope.
This essentially turns your telescope into your camera’s lens, Naz explains.
How to take photos with your phone
Not ready to invest in a telescope?
Binoculars are an excellent alternative.
Even a small pair can enhance your view of the night sky, says Naz.
The Moon looks spectacular through binoculars.
Even without advanced equipment, the night sky offers plenty of opportunities for capturing its beauty.
Thanks to advancements in smartphone technology, creating stunning photos is more achievable than ever.
PhotographerRebecca Douglasexplains just how far weve come.
She recommends using apps likeStar Walk 2for celestial identification andPhotoPillsfor planning your shots.
She also tells me that a tripod and remote trigger are must-haves for reducing any motion blur.
But I love that Rebecca reminds me that astrophotography isnt just about technology.
The night sky connects us to something much bigger than ourselves, she says.
