Telescope Makers & Manufacturers
From major manufacturers to custom builders, these companies create the instruments we use to explore the universe.
Major Manufacturers
- Celestron – Leading telescope manufacturer since 1960, famous for Schmidt-Cassegrain designs and computerized GoTo mounts. Great for beginners through advanced users.
- Meade Instruments – Known for innovative computerized telescopes and the LX series. Popular for astrophotography setups.
- Tele Vue Optics – Premium refractors and eyepieces. Founded by legendary optical designer Al Nagler. The gold standard for visual observing.
- Astro-Physics – High-end refractors and mounts. Long wait times but exceptional quality. The choice of serious astrophotographers.
Dobsonian & Large Aperture Specialists
- Obsession Telescopes – Premium large-aperture Dobsonians from 12″ to 25″. Built for serious deep-sky observers who want maximum light-gathering power.
- Starmaster Telescopes – Custom Dobsonians with Zambuto optics. Known for excellent portable designs.
- Teeter’s Telescopes – Ultra-light truss Dobsonians for portability without sacrificing aperture.
- Webster Telescopes – Custom Dobsonian designs.
Professional Optics
- Steward Observatory Mirror Lab – University of Arizona facility that creates the world’s largest telescope mirrors, including for the Giant Magellan Telescope. Tours available!