celestial objects that you can see with a telescope
Telescope Nerd » Guides » What Can You See With a Telescope? Planets and Galaxies

What Can You See With a Telescope? Planets and Galaxies

Telescopes enable the study of the universe, including the planets and galaxies within it. Knowing what is able to be seen through a telescope allows observers to plan observations and optimize their experience.

Telescopes are available in a wide range, from beginner telescopes to view the moon, to advanced telescopes for detailed planetary observations. Different types of telescopes are designed to study our galaxy to varying degrees, depending on how far the specific telescope is able to see.

What Can You See on the Moon With a Telescope?

With a home telescope, observers are able to see craters, mountains, valleys, and dark plains, known as lunar maria, on the moon. 

Can you see the landing site and flag on the moon? The landing site, in the Sea of Tranquility, is visible through all telescopes. However, astronomers are not able to observe the Apollo landing sites or the flags left on the Moon’s surface with a home telescope. The flags are not visible because are too small and distant to distinguish.

The detail and clarity will depend on the design of the telescope, permitting various degrees of resolution. The strength of a telescope will determine this degree, and therefore the planets that are able to be seen.

What Planets Can You See With a Telescope?

With a telescope, various planets can be seen in the solar system. The resolution of these celestial bodies will depend on the quality of the telescope. However, a majority of telescopes are able to observe the following planets.

  1. Saturn
  2. Jupiter
  3. Mars
  4. Neptune
  5. Pluto

1. Saturn 

Saturn is the sixth planet from the Sun in the solar system and is known for its seven rings, which consist of icy and rocky debris orbiting the planet. Saturn is a gas giant with a distinctive set of rings, making it one of the most visually captivating objects in the night sky.

Saturn is able to be seen from Earth and is one of the five planets visible to the naked eye. It is easily observable with the aid of a telescope. With most telescopes, observers will see Saturn’s rings, surface and moons. With moderate telescopic power, observers are able to see the Cassini Division, a dark gap in Saturn’s rings.

Saturn is visible during various times of the year, depending on its position in its orbit. It is most easily observed when it is in opposition, which occurs when it is directly opposite the Sun in the sky, making it visible all night. The exact timing of opposition varies from year to year. The distance between Earth and Saturn varies due to their elliptical orbits. On average, Saturn is approximately 1.4 billion kilometers (869 million miles) away from Earth. At its closest approach (opposition), it will be around 1.2 billion kilometers (746 million miles) away, and at its farthest, it will be over 1.6 billion kilometers (994 million miles) distant.

To observe Saturn’s rings and some details, a telescope with a magnification of at least 30x to 50x is recommended. Higher magnifications (100x to 200x) will provide even more detailed views. A telescope with an aperture size of at least 70mm (2.75 inches) or larger is suggested to see Saturn’s rings and some of its moon. Larger apertures provide better resolution and clarity for observing the ringed planet.

2. Jupiter 

Jupiter, the fifth planet from the Sun in the solar system, is renowned for its captivating features, including its four largest moons (Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto) and its ever-changing cloud bands. This gas giant is one of the five planets visible to the naked eye from Earth and is easily observed with the aid of a telescope.

With most telescopes, observers are able to witness Jupiter’s distinct cloud bands, the Great Red Spot (a massive storm), and the constant dance of its Galilean moons as they orbit the planet. Jupiter’s dynamic atmosphere offers a wealth of fascinating details to explore.

To catch the best views of Jupiter, timing is essential. The planet is visible during various times of the year, depending on its position in its orbit. For optimal observation, target Jupiter when it is in opposition, meaning it is directly opposite the Sun in the sky, making it visible all night. The exact timing of opposition varies from year to year. Jupiter’s distance from Earth fluctuates due to its elliptical orbit. On average, Jupiter is approximately 778 million kilometers (483 million miles) away. At its closest approach during opposition, it is around 365 million kilometers (227 million miles) distant, while at its farthest, it extends to 968 million kilometers (601 million miles) away.

To view Jupiter’s cloud bands and moons, a telescope with a magnification of at least 30x to 50x is recommended. Higher magnifications (100x to 200x) will provide more detailed views of the planet’s features. For optimal clarity and resolution, opt for a telescope with an aperture size of at least 70mm (2.75 inches) or larger. Jupiter’s mesmerizing presence in the night sky continues to captivate astronomers and skywatchers alike, making it a beloved target for telescopic observation.

3. Mars 

Mars, often referred to as the “Red Planet,” is the fourth planet from the Sun in our solar system and is known for its distinctive reddish appearance due to iron oxide on its surface. Observing Mars with a telescope provides a glimpse into its unique features and surface details.

Mars is easily visible from Earth and is one of the five planets that is able to be seen with the naked eye. When viewed through most telescopes, observers are able to discern surface features on Mars, including polar ice caps and dark markings. These markings represent Martian landscapes, such as canyons, volcanoes, and impact craters.

For the best observations of Mars, timing is crucial. The planet is visible at various times of the year, depending on its position in its orbit. To obtain the most detailed views, target Mars when it is at opposition, which occurs when it is directly opposite the Sun in the sky, making it visible all night. The timing of opposition varies from year to year.

Mars’ distance from Earth varies due to the elliptical nature of its orbit. On average, Mars is approximately 225 million kilometers (140 million miles) away from Earth. During opposition, it will come as close as around 54.6 million kilometers (33.9 million miles) and will be as distant as about 401 million kilometers (249 million miles) at its farthest.

To observe Mars’ surface features, a telescope with a magnification of at least 30x to 100x is recommended. Higher magnifications (200x or more) will reveal finer details. Additionally, an aperture size of at least 70mm (2.75 inches) or larger is suggested for clearer and more detailed views of Mars.

4. Neptune 

Neptune, the eighth and furthest known planet from the Sun in our solar system, is a fascinating ice giant shrouded in mystery. Observing Neptune with a telescope is challenging due to its great distance and faint appearance, but it is possible to catch a glimpse of this distant world.

Neptune is not visible to the naked eye from Earth without the aid of a telescope. To observe Neptune, one will need a telescope with substantial aperture size and good magnification capabilities. This distant planet appears as a small, blue-gray disk through telescopes.

The best conditions for observing Neptune occur when it is in opposition, which means it is directly opposite the Sun in the sky. At opposition, Neptune is at its closest approach to Earth. However, even at opposition, Neptune is still quite distant. On average, Neptune is about 4.5 billion kilometers (2.8 billion miles) away from Earth. At its closest approach during opposition, it is around 4.3 billion kilometers (2.7 billion miles) away, while at its farthest, it is over 4.7 billion kilometers (2.9 billion miles) distant.

To observe Neptune, a telescope with a large aperture size of at least 150mm (6 inches) or more is recommended. Given its distance and relatively small apparent size, Neptune appears as a tiny dot of light. Higher magnifications, typically in the range of 100x to 200x or more, will help in discerning its disk and distinguishing it from background stars.

5. Pluto

Pluto, once considered the ninth planet in our solar system but now classified as a dwarf planet, is a celestial enigma found at the distant edges of our solar system. Observing Pluto with a telescope is an intricate endeavor due to its remote location and diminutive size.

Pluto is not visible to the naked eye and is a challenging target even with telescopes. To attempt to observe Pluto, a telescope with substantial aperture size and good magnification capabilities is required. This distant dwarf planet appears as a tiny, faint point of light against the backdrop of stars.

The ideal conditions for Pluto observation occur when it is in opposition, meaning it is directly opposite the Sun in the sky, making it relatively closer to Earth. However, even at opposition, Pluto remains extremely distant. On average, Pluto is approximately 5.9 billion kilometers (3.67 billion miles) away from Earth. During opposition, it comes as close as about 4.2 billion kilometers (2.6 billion miles), and at its farthest, it will be over 7.5 billion kilometers (4.67 billion miles) distant.

To catch a glimpse of Pluto, a telescope with a substantial aperture size of at least 150mm (6 inches) or larger is recommended. Given its immense distance, Pluto will appear as a mere pinpoint of light, and observing surface details is not feasible. Higher magnifications, often exceeding 100x, assist in identifying Pluto’s motion relative to the background stars, aiding in its recognition.

What Galaxies Can You See With a Telescope?

Most telescopes permit the observation of distant galaxies beyond the Milky Way. These galaxies are seen at a range of distances, each providing unique observations. Five of the most commonly viewed galaxies are listed below.

  1. Andromeda Galaxy
  2. Milky Way
  3. Triangulum Galaxy
  4. Sombrero Galaxy 
  5. Pinwheel Galaxy

1. Andromeda Galaxy 

The Andromeda Galaxy is a spiral galaxy located approximately 2.537 million light-years away from Earth. It is the closest spiral galaxy to our own Milky Way. The Andromeda Galaxy is commonly referred to as “M31” due to its designation in the Messier catalog. The Andromeda Galaxy is visible from the Northern Hemisphere and is best observed during the late summer and early autumn months. It is able to be seen with the naked eye under dark sky conditions. To observe the Andromeda Galaxy clearly, it is preferable to have minimal light pollution and clear, dark skies. Viewing it from a location away from city lights is ideal. 

While the Andromeda Galaxy is able to be seen with the naked eye, using a telescope enhances the view significantly. A telescope with a moderate to large aperture size (80mm or larger) is recommended for better resolution. Magnification will vary but typically ranges from 25x to 100x, depending on the observer’s preference.

2. Milky Way 

The Milky Way Galaxy is a barred spiral galaxy, serving as the galactic home to our solar system. It is called the Milky Way because of its appearance as a dim, milky band stretching across the night sky, composed of stars that cannot be individually distinguished by the naked eye. The optimal time to observe the Milky Way is during the summer months when the sky is clear, and there is minimal light pollution. To have the best view of the Milky Way, it is recommended to be in a location far from city lights and with low atmospheric light interference.

Earth is located in one of the spiral arms of the Milky Way (called the Orion Arm), approximately 27,000 lightyears away from the galactic center. For a detailed observation of the Milky Way, using a telescope with a moderate aperture size (80mm or larger) is recommended, as it provides a clearer and more resolved image of the galaxy. Magnification will vary, but 40x to 150x magnification typically offers balanced and detailed views depending on the observer’s preference.

3. Triangulum Galaxy

The Triangulum Galaxy, also called M33, is a spiral galaxy within the Local Group of galaxies, which includes the Milky Way and Andromeda. The Triangulum Galaxy earns its name due to its location within the small constellation of Triangulum. The galaxy manifests as a faint, blurry object in the night sky, composed of billions of stars, some of which are not able to be distinguished individually by the naked eye. The optimal viewing period for the Triangulum Galaxy is during the autumn months when the skies are most likely to be clear, and it is best observed from locations with minimal light pollution, away from the bright lights of urban areas, under dark sky conditions. 

The Triangulum Galaxy is situated approximately 2.73 million light-years away from Earth. To observe the detailed structure of M33, it is advised to use a telescope with a moderate to large aperture size, at least 80mm or larger, to garner clearer and more resolved images. The magnification will vary based on personal preference, typically ranging between 25x to 100x, allowing observers to witness the galaxy’s spiral structure and potentially some of its brightest stars and nebulae. 

4. Sombrero Galaxy

The Sombrero Galaxy, designated as M104, is a spiral galaxy situated within the boundaries of the constellation Virgo. This galaxy is a part of the larger Virgo Cluster of galaxies and stands out due to its bright nucleus and large central bulge, making it resemble a sombrero hat, hence the name. M104 appears in the night sky as a distinctive object, but to distinguish the intricate features of the galaxy, such as its pronounced dust lanes and bright nucleus, optimal observing conditions are necessary. The ideal time for observing the Sombrero Galaxy is during the spring months when the constellation Virgo is prominent in the night sky, and it is preferably viewed from areas where light pollution is minimal, ensuring clearer and sharper images under dark sky conditions.

The Sombrero Galaxy is located approximately 31.1 million light-years away from Earth. To appreciate the detailed features of the Sombrero Galaxy, utilizing a telescope with a moderate to large aperture size, at least 80mm or larger, is recommended. This allows observers to obtain clearer and more resolved images of the galaxy’s structure. Magnification will be adjusted as per the observer’s preference, typically ranging between 30x to 150x, to gain insights into the galaxy’s prominent features like its bright nucleus and the dark dust lane.

5. Pinwheel Galaxy

The Pinwheel Galaxy, or M101, is a face-on spiral galaxy located in the constellation Ursa Major. As one of the prominent members of the M101 Group of galaxies, it is renowned for its defined spiral arms and vibrant hues.

M101 is best observed during the spring months when Ursa Major is high in the night sky, and its intricate details are optimal under dark, clear skies away from the intrusive light of urban environments. Observing locations with minimal light pollution is crucial for witnessing the delicate and detailed spiral structure of this galaxy.

The Pinwheel Galaxy is situated at an approximate distance of 21 million light-years from Earth. To delve into the majestic details of the Pinwheel Galaxy, utilizing a telescope with an aperture size of at least 80mm or larger is recommended, as it provides more clarity and resolution. The magnification will be varied according to the observer’s desire, generally between 30x to 150x, to explore the intricate patterns and vivid colors of its spiral arms and core.

How Far Can a Telescope See?

Telescopes can see celestial bodies anywhere from thousands to billions of light-years away. This range varies widely, depending on the size and specifications of the telescope. In general, the larger the aperture, the more light a telescope will collect. This means that larger apertures enable the observation of fainter and more distant objects. Examples of how far telescopes are able to see, based on their aperture, are explained below.

  • 70mm Telescope (2.76 inches): 70mm apertures are typically used for moon gazing, observing planets, and identifying brighter star clusters and nebulae within our Milky Way galaxy, suitable for beginners. A 70mm aperture is able to observe celestial objects within our galaxy, generally limited to objects within a few thousand to a few tens of thousands of light-years.
  • 150mm Telescope (5.91 inches): 150mm apertures offer more detailed views of the planets, the moon, distant galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters, ideal for intermediate astronomers. These telescopes are able to observe celestial objects in nearby galaxies, revealing objects located millions of light-years away, depending on their brightness and observing conditions.
  • 200mm Telescope (7.87 inches): These telescopes are often used by advanced amateur astronomers, allowing for intricate observation of distant galaxies, nebulae, and stars. A telescope with a 200mm aperture has the capability to peer several million to potentially over a billion light-years away, based on the specific object’s brightness and other observing conditions.
  • James Webb Space Telescope (255.91 inches): The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has an aperture of 6.5 meters (21.3 feet). JWST is engineered to look further into the Universe and back in time than ever before using 18 large, hexagonal mirrors. It will observe the first galaxies formed after the Big Bang and will study the atmospheres of potentially habitable exoplanets, over 13.5 billion light-years away.

Aperture isn’t the only factor that influences a telescope’s reachable distance, but it serves as a strong indicator of its light-gathering power. The light-gathering power determines the brightness of an image, which means larger light-gathering power allows for the observation of more distant objects. The atmospheric conditions, telescope design, optical quality and other components will also impact the usage of a telescope.

How to See Space Objects With a Telescope?

To see space objects with a telescope, one must know how to use a telescope. First, set up the telescope as per the guidelines provided in the manual, ensuring a stable and level foundation. Then, align the finderscope with the main telescope to aid in locating objects. Insert the eyepiece with the lowest magnification to start, as it provides the widest field of view, making it easier to find objects.

After the eyepiece is inserted, use a star chart or an app to find the desired celestial object and aim the telescope in that direction. Look through the finderscope to fine-tune the alignment, and then through the telescope. Once there is an object in view, focus the telescope by adjusting the focus knob until the image is sharp and clear.

Switching to higher magnification eyepieces and adjusting the focus as needed will allow for more detailed observations. Remember to gently adjust the eyepiece and continuously track the object due to the Earth’s rotation, ensuring it remains in the field of view. By adhering to these instructions, one will gradually enhance their observational skills and enjoy detailed views of planets, galaxies, and other celestial bodies.

Similar Posts