Given a specific size, which scope would perform better?
For example:
Is a 4 inch reflector equivalent to a 4 inch refractor?
2006-09-05 10:01:06 · 6 answers · asked by Scotty H 3 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Astronomy & Space
If both telescopes are the same diameter and the same focal length, their performance should be very similar. The reflector might have slightly better chromatic abberation (all colors focussing the same---this might be important if you were making infrared photographs). The reflector could probably be made lighter and cheaper (this is why all really big telescopes are reflectors). The refractor could be made without any blockage, whereas the reflector would probably have some blockage from the secondary mirror. But these are small effects; to your eye at the eyepiece, they will be very similar.
If you are buying your first telescope, you might consider getting "Astronomical Binoculars". They are inexpensive and can show you a lot of great stuff.
2006-09-05 11:10:57 · answer #1 · answered by cosmo 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Given an equal size the refractor gives a better image. However a reflector of the same size as a refractor is less expensive. So given a certain number of dollars to spend, I would get a reflector as you can get a bigger reflector and thereby view dimmer objects.
2006-09-05 17:46:42 · answer #2 · answered by rscanner 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Assuming all else were equal, for example you had a flawless apochromatic refractor and a flawless, coma free, perfectly collimated reflector, I'd say the refractor because it collects more light and is free of the diffraction spikes you get with reflectors.
Keep in mind that the bigger refractors get the more difficult it is to maintaine quality and they get astronomically expensive! A 4" apochromatic refractor is an instrument I wouldn't mind having though.
2006-09-06 02:54:29 · answer #3 · answered by minuteblue 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Refractors generally have the edge over reflectors for a quality image, both from the standpoint of lens/mirror quality and precision optical mountings, and lack of central obscurations.
2006-09-05 17:42:18 · answer #4 · answered by Answers1 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No they are not. It also depends on the focal length of the telescope. I believe the refractor is better.
2006-09-05 17:37:02 · answer #5 · answered by orion_1812@yahoo.com 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have had both and I prefer the reflector. It produced a clearer image. It may have been due to quality, but that is my experience.
2006-09-05 17:40:46 · answer #6 · answered by FrogDog 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋