Stargazing kit picker

New to the night sky? Answer five quick questions and we’ll suggest a stargazing kit — red torch, planisphere, binoculars or a first telescope — that suits where you observe and what you want to see, with links to browse current options.

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Sponde is only about 2 km across, but Jupiter is easy to spot with the naked eye and its four big moons show up in steadily held binoculars.

1/5 What's your budget for the whole kit?

Under $50$50 – $150$150 – $350$350+

2/5 How much stargazing have you done?

Total beginnerI know a few constellationsI go out often

3/5 What are your skies like?

City — bright, few starsSuburbs — Milky Way faint or hiddenDark rural skies

4/5 What's the plan for the night?

Watch a meteor showerLearn the constellationsLook closer — Moon, planets & clustersA bit of everything

5/5 Where will you set up?

Anywhere — I want it lightA drive to a darker siteMy own backyard

Show my matchesStart over

How the picker works

Your answers filter a list of common stargazing comfort and observing gear categories by your total budget, then rank them by how well they suit your experience, sky conditions, plans for the night and where you’ll set up. Budget bands are rough guides only; prices vary by retailer and change often. Recommendations are general guidance, not professional advice.