What types of telescopes are there?

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Unlike binoculars, telescope design is not critical to astronomical use. While they will come in a variety of colors, styles, sizes, lengths, and manufacturers—they will all be only one of three designs: the refractor telescope which uses a series of lenses to gather light, the reflector telescope which uses a mirror, or a catadioptric which uses both.

Let’s take a look at these telescope types and what to expect from each design....

Next Page: What is a refractor?

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