10 Best Binoculars for Astronomy This Year | Reviews & Recommendations

1 Celestron Echelon Astronomy Binoculars

Our first entry on the best binoculars for astronomy list comes from a reputable brand we have mentioned a few times before when we discussed the best telescopes for beginners. The company keeps its promise of making excellent optical instruments, and the Celestron Echelon astronomy binoculars do not fall short either. Let’s see why this is one of the best binoculars for stargazing!

Why choose the Celestron Echelon Binoculars for Astronomy?

This premium quality long-range viewing binocular, assembled in the USA, is worth every cent because of its remarkable tech specs and versatility. You can use it for stargazing, of course, but for many other outdoor activities as well. Let’s see why you should buy these astronomy binoculars:

• The 3.5 mm exit pupil allows a large amount of light for you to see the most detail possible, whether you gaze at the Milky Way wonders or use it for nature or sports observations;
• The durable rubber armor covers the aluminum housing for a slip-free grip and protection against accidents;
• Fully waterproof and nitrogen-purged to protect the binoculars against fog, dew, and moisture in general.
• Celestron is a brand you can trust when it comes to optical instruments. When it comes to Celestron telescopes, few other products on the market can match their quality and performance. Suffice to say, if you wonder what binoculars are best for astronomy, Celestron products should come to your mind.

Verdict

When it comes to 5-stars astronomy binoculars reviews, few things can beat the Celestron Echelon binoculars. It is a perfect product for picking out small objects at the longest distances, or for high-magnification viewing of celestial bodies. Beginner astronomers and outdoor enthusiasts cannot choose something better! Keep in mind that Celestron also makes some of the best spotting scopes on the market to date, so you can trust the company to deliver an outstanding product coming with an excellent value/price ratio and more than enthusiast customer reviews!

2 Canon All-Weather Astronomy Binoculars

This pair of binoculars features an optical image stabilizer for shake-free viewing and minimal eye fatigue, a technology first developed by Canon for their video camcorders. The tech specs of this product are amazing and you should learn more about them right now!

Why choose the Canon All-Weather Binoculars for Astronomy?

The water-resistant, shock-resistant rubber coating for a nonslip grip and better durability makes this pair of binoculars your most trusted companion all seasons and for all purposes. Canon’s Super Spectra lens coating is also something to consider if you want to stargaze or enjoy your outdoor, travel, and adventure hobbies. Let’s see more about this product, shall we?

• Closest Focusing Distance: 19.7 feet;
• Exit Pupil Diameter: 2.8 mm;
• Eye Relief: 15 mm;
• Built-in optical image stabilization technology;
• Wide, extra-bright field of view.

Verdict

The Canon All-Weather binoculars appeal to the beginner astronomer or adventurer who travels a lot and spends time outdoors. Shock-resistant and as efficient on a rainy day as on a sunny one, these astronomy binoculars will last for years without a scratch. The image stabilization tech is a wonder. While pricey, these astronomy binoculars are worth every cent. Consider the fact that these astronomy binoculars work just like miniature telescopes. The optical principles and advanced technologies are present, making these Canon pieces some of the best binoculars for astronomy on the market.

3 Zhumell Tachyon Astronomy Binoculars

We featured Zhumell optical instruments at least one time before when we focused on the best telescopes for beginners reviews. Now we have the Zhumell Tachyon on our list of astronomy binoculars reviews and we will say just this: Zhumell does impress, meets needs, and exceeds expectations. Consider only the giant 100 mm objective lenses for deep-space astronomy use and you will understand why this product is on this list.

Why choose the Zhumell Tachyon Binoculars for Astronomy?

This industrial-strength, field-worthy instrument for astronomy boasts 25x magnification, 100mm objective lenses, and a built-in tripod adapter for you to see stars, planets, and other celestial bodies of interest. Let’s see, nevertheless, other tech specs and features that make this product one of the best binoculars for stargazing on the market!

• Individual eyepiece focus system for ultra-precise adjustment;
• Eyepieces accept 1.25-inch threaded astronomical filters;
• Rugged, armored exterior against accidents;
• Waterproof;
• BaK-4 prism;
  
• Adaptable to tripods.

Verdict

With their excellent price and amazing tech specs, Zhumell Tachyon astronomy binoculars seem too good to be true. However, you should definitely try them if you want to see planets and nebulae but also concerts, sports events, and natural phenomena. A useful tool for everyone interested in stargazing and outdoor events, this product is one of the best units money can buy. It makes an excellent gift for kids or for any teen or adult with a passion for mind-blowing science facts, experimentation, exploration, and inquiry.

4 Orion Tripod Bundle Astronomy Binoculars

With this product, Orion makes you an offer you cannot refuse: excellent binoculars for astronomy, allowing you to see the Moon, planets, clusters, and other space curiosities, coming together with their branded Orion Paragon-Plus XHD tripod. With its outstanding price/value ratio and amazing tech specs, this bundle is perfect for the entire family of stargazers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Why choose the Orion Tripod Bundle Binoculars for Astronomy?

At this price, you would be lucky to get a pair of astronomy binoculars, let alone a high-quality tripod. Nevertheless, this deal stands. And if you are still considering it, let’s learn together more things about this product, to make up your mind!

• High-transmission BAK-4 porro prisms;
• Fully multi-coated optics and large 80 mm objective lenses, great for observing comets, star clusters, bright planets, the Moon, and others;
• Bright views across a 3.2-degree field of view;
• 20-power close-up views of wildlife, scenery, and other daytime targets;
• The tripod features large, adjustable aluminum legs with sturdy lock lever clamps for convenient setup and take-down.
• You can trust Orion to make some of the best optical devices out there, as you probably know. If you are looking for the best Orion telescopes on the market, check out our guide here! Orion, just like Celestron, is a reputable brand you can trust with your optical tools.

 Verdict

If you and your family are the adventurer type who loves to travel and enjoy everything the land and the sky have to offer, then you should consider getting the Orion binoculars with the tripod. Besides featuring an unbeatable price for the bundle, you really get the necessary tech specs and the on-the-go versatility you need for all your observations.

5 Orion Resolux Astronomy Binoculars

Do you want to see all the Moon craters, celestial bodies, and other space objects without needing to switch to a different type of binoculars for sporting events, nature observations, concerts, and other fun events? Then you should consider the Orion Resolux binoculars, as they work perfectly with astronomy beginners and outdoor lovers alike.

Why choose the Orion Resolux Binoculars for Astronomy?

Next in line on our list of best binoculars for astronomy, comes the second Orion product we chose. If the 15X magnification paired with the 70 mm objective lens diameter did not convince you yet, let’s discuss other tech specs and features pertaining to this product – which, by the ways, is in our opinion the best binoculars for astronomy that the entire family can enjoy, even if some members are beginners and others intermediate.

• Fully waterproof and nitrogen purged construction prevents lenses’ fogging;
• High-quality BAK-4 prisms and advanced multi-coatings on all optical surfaces provide maximum light for excellent night and day viewings;
• The 4.4-degree field of view allows the observation of wide celestial bodies or land objects;
• Comes with an included tripod adapter.

Verdict

Sure, this product is not quite a telescope, but if your goal is to observe the Moon, stars, and clusters at night while you enjoy a concert or a wildlife adventure with the family, then the Orion Resolux is the device you want. One of the best binoculars for astronomy on this list, the Resolux does not disappoint. On the contrary, it works beyond users’ expectations. Check out the users’ reviews and the forums for hobbyists to learn more about this product, as you will surely enjoy it!

6 Levenhuk Heritage Plus Astronomy Binoculars

Among all the astronomy binoculars on this list, the Levenhuk Heritage Plus is by far the most interesting and somewhat original. First, we are talking about a very limited edition, available in the U.S. and a few European countries.

The binoculars are Russian in essence (created specially for Levenhuk), coming from a company that makes all its lenses and optical devices stand the highest military-grade standards.

Thirdly, the design is rugged and old-school, with a vintage feel that appeals to the no-nonsense type of beginner astronomers who want new and highly-performing binoculars for astronomy that look like the ones in old movies.

Why choose the Levenhuk Binoculars for Astronomy?

Well, the first reason would be that Levenhuk is a name you cannot ignore when it comes to optical devices. We mentioned some of their products before when we discussed the best microscope for kids. More than that, however, the Levenhuk Heritage Plus binoculars

• Boast Russian optics (which are some of the best in the world) – BK10 optical glass;
• 12 mm eye relief;
• Traditional Porro prism body design;
• Field of view: 291 ft at 1000 yards;
• Come in a limited series for the connoisseurs;
• Show off a price tag you might not believe is real;
• Offer lifetime warranty.

Verdict

Considering the tech specs, the price, and the fact that this telescope is able to satisfy beginners’ and advanced astronomy hobbyists requirements and desires, you can get it for kids as well with no problems. It works incredibly well – as you can see from the reviews – and will keep the little ones hooked for years. As we said, Levenhuk makes excellent optical products, as we already mentioned when we presented the best science gifts for kids!

7 Fujinon Polaris Astronomy Binoculars

Next on our list of best binoculars for astronomy reviews is a product as famous and beloves as its parent company. Fujinon is a division of Fujifilm, and if you ever used a camera or watched TV, you know Fuji is a name to keep in high regard when it comes to optics. The Fujinon Polaris binoculars make no exception, as they feature one of Fuji’s patented technologies and boast incredible tech specs and features.

Why choose the Fujinon Polaris Binoculars for Astronomy?

As we suggested, you can consider the Fujinon Polaris some of the best binoculars for stargazing from the standpoint of innovation technology. The ECB coating allows 95% light transmission.

The field flattener lens ensures you get sharp images from one edge of the view to the other. This feature is particularly critical for astronomical observations, as it keeps all your clusters or constellations viewings sharp and focused.

Other tech specs and features include:

• O-ring sealing for full water and fog proofing;
• Porro prism optical design;
• Individual focus of the eyepieces;
• 18 mm eye relief;
• 7.1 mm exit pupil;
• Comes with a neck strap.

Verdict

The Fujinon Polaris is among the best binoculars for astronomy on the market right now. Without a doubt, the patented EBC technology and the field flattener features make stargazing a breathtaking experience for the beginner and intermediate astronomy hobbyist. Nevertheless, its tech specs also make it one of the best binoculars for general activities, so it is an investment worth considering.

8 Gosky Ultra HD Astronomy Binoculars

The Gosky Ultra HD binoculars appeal to the adventurous crowd the best. For this reason, if you usually travel the unbeaten path and find yourself in natural environments more often than home, then you should consider this sturdy and rugged pair of binoculars for all your sky or land explorations.

Don’t get us wrong, you can use it for concerts or sports events, but when you find yourself alone with the mountains and the night’s sky, this is the pair of binoculars you want to bring along for the ride.

Why choose the Gosky Binoculars for Astronomy?

For the price, this pair of binoculars stand out of the crowd and make it cheer. The 10X power magnification, 42 mm aperture, and 307 ft/1000 yds field of view make the binoculars great for stargazing and outdoor activities. You will probably not see all the Moon craters or Saturn’s rings, but you will fully enjoy the night’s sky, wildlife and scenery, sports, concerts, and other events. Let’s see other reasons we put this product on our astronomy binoculars reviews’ list!

• Multi-layer coatings green film objective lens and 18 mm blue film eyepiece ensure bright, clear, and crisp images;
  
• The dielectric doated prisms assure high reflectivity across the full visible range, improving light transmissions;
• The durable magnalium framework and rubber armor make it shock-proof and harsh weather-resistant;
• You can use it with or without glasses;
• Compact and lightweight, it is easy to carry outside;
• Comes with a smartphone holder.

Verdict

The enthusiast astronomers together with the seasoned outdoor adventurers and wildlife lovers are all praising the Gosky binoculars, just as they enjoy the Gosky spotting scopes. Whether you are just cultivating your passion for stargazing or you want the sturdiest binoculars to join you hiking, the Gosky delivers on its promise of feeding your hobby with hi-tech optics – crisp images, wide field of view, and all the comfort your eyes need. Moreover, its shock-proof and all weather-resistant design make it an ideal choice.

9 Orion Scenix Astronomy Binoculars

Yet another Orion entry on our best binoculars for astronomy list, the Scenix model is the affordable version of the more advanced Orion binoculars. Featuring the same hi-tech elements and providing users with impeccable image quality, this one is a perfect choice if you want to introduce your child or teen to astronomy, nature watching, or outdoor adventures.

Why choose the Orion Scenix Binoculars for Astronomy?

Simply put, it is the best tool to spark curiosity and passion in the young generation. While not a science kit per se, the Scenix binoculars feature impressive tech specs for their price. Moreover, they make a great addition to any family’s adventure pack. But let’s see why you should consider this product!

• The Porro prisms made from high-grade BAK-4 optical glass offer superior optical and mechanical quality in comparison to other binoculars in the same price range.
• The bright 7 mm exit pupil and 7.1-degree field of view allow for comfortable astronomy and scenery viewings;
• It comes together with a vinyl carrying case, lens caps, and a comfortable deluxe wide neck strap.

Verdict

For its small price and great tech specs, you can consider this item as an excellent learning and teaching tool for your kids at home or in the classroom. Boasting great optical and mechanical features, the Scenix is portable, easy to use, and versatile to please both beginner small astronomers and young outdoor adventurers.

10 Cayzor Compact HD Astronomy Binoculars

If you are looking for a budget pair of binoculars, why not choose a product that features dual focus capability, 1000-yard range, premium BAK-4 prism and multi-coated lenses that deliver 99.5% total light transmission? We mean, if you want to spend little money on a product, why not spend on the best of products in that price range?

Why choose the Cayzor Binoculars for Astronomy?

As we said, if you want the best bang for your buck, then Cayzor delivers outstanding capabilities together with a lifetime replacement warranty and an excellent design to boot. But let’s see other specs and features one would not normally associate with this kind of price tag:

• Center and right eye focus system;
• Objective lens coating: FMC Broadband;
• HD light transmission;
• The durable body with slip-resistant rubber armor provides a firm grip;
• Waterproof and moist-resistant;
• Comes with a smartphone adapter (adjustable width from 2.16 – 3.14 inches) compatible with all popular brands;
• Adaptable to tripods.

Verdict

The last entry on our best binoculars for astronomy list is a product that can satisfy many needs and wishes, with the added benefit that it is a true wonder for your budget. If you just want to test the waters (in case you are not sure you will keep astronomy or outdoor explorations as a permanent hobby), this is the perfect choice regarding optical specs, price, warranty, and versatility.

Astronomy Binoculars Buying Guide: A Few Words on Tech Specs and Features

Before you buy any astronomy binoculars, you should know that they are not telescopes and will probably never reveal you the deep space mysteries some telescopes for beginners or advanced astronomers do. Never mind the Hubble. Before you start buying any type of binoculars, magnifying glasses, spotting scopes, telescopes for kids or beginners, and even microscopes, you need to first understand how optical devices work and what their tech specs mean. Moreover, since you are looking for the best binoculars for astronomy, you should also learn more about the various types of telescopes, lenses, and focal powers you should expect from a device you buy.

If you wonder why you would get a pair of astronomy binoculars instead of an astronomy telescope, the answer falls under the practicality umbrella.

• Binoculars are portable and easy to carry anywhere. While you won’t probably take a telescope to a rock concert, football game, or the forest, you can bring the binoculars for an exquisite viewing experience.
• Binoculars are versatile enough to allow you some stargazing along with other hobbies you might want to try: birdwatching, wildlife observations, hunting, crowd surveillance, teaching optics in a classroom, and more.
• Astronomy binoculars, in particular, can lay the foundation for a lifetime stargazing hobby without losing their usefulness even if you move onto a telescope for advanced astronomers.

All in all, you can throw your astronomy binoculars in any backpack and use them anytime, anywhere, and for forever reason. Now that we cleared that up, let’s discuss some of the tech specs and features we mentioned on each product review so you know what best fits your needs!

Astronomy Binoculars Magnification and Aperture

When you looked at our products above, you saw a set of numbers along the lines of 12X42 or 7X50. The first number in the pair is the magnification (or power), while the second is the aperture (the diameter of the lenses measured in millimeters).

If you want to learn more about these specs, check out our guide on how to buy telescopes, as they feature the same tech specs!

Field of View

Most times, you will see the field of view expressed in feet at a distance of 1,000 yards. The FOV specification tells you how wide you will see a certain scene. These days, FOV is also shown in degrees, but the conversion is simple:

• 1 degree equals 52 feet at 1,000 yards.

Never expect astronomy binoculars’ field of view to compare to that of telescopes. Adjust your expectations accordingly, and you will enjoy an excellent experience.

Exit Pupil

The exit pupil describes a virtual aperture in an optical device. On your binoculars, the exit pupils are those small bright disks you look through. It is an important tech spec because it allows you to understand how much light will reach your eyes.

• The larger the exit pupil diameter is, the more amount of light your eye will gather. It is of particular importance when you look for the best binoculars for astronomy because you need to use them also in poor light conditions, like dusk or dawn.

Eye Relief

This feature pertains to the eyepieces’ design when it comes to binoculars. It describes the ideal distance between your eyes and the eyepieces. You want astronomy binoculars with long eye relief measurements so you can comfortably see the entire picture, not just the center of it.

• Eye relief distances are also of great importance for people who wear glasses, so you should take your time and check each binoculars model that best suits your needs.

Astronomy Binoculars Lens Coatings

When you show interest in telescopes and binoculars, you learn soon enough that lenses receive a few millionths of an inch thin magnesium fluoride layers to prevent light reflection. The better and more coatings your lenses feature, the better the images will be.

• Most binoculars for astronomy feature fully coated, multi-coated, or fully multi-coated lenses.

What you should know is that the better the coatings, the more expensive the binoculars will be.

Porro Prisms and BAK-4 Glass

In the field of optics, the Porro prism, taking its name from its inventor Ignazio Porro, is a reflective prism meant to alter an image’s orientation.

Porro prisms were and still are the standard in binoculars manufacturing.

• Today, you will find Roof prisms as well – on the high-end side of the price spectrum.
• However, the Porro design is simpler, more light efficient, and with better contrasting images.

Here are some more things you should know about prisms when you buy binoculars, as without them, you would just wear a pair of magnifying glasses over your eyes.

Porro prism binoculars have objective lens tubes that are offset from the eyepieces; the prisms angle from the eyepieces to the objective lenses. Roof prism binoculars have two straight tubes, making them smaller and more compact. Porro prism binoculars usually have a higher quality image and less light loss (which makes the picture clearer). Although roof prism pairs can absolutely have a comparable optic, their compact design and complex prisms make the higher-priced roof prisms a better bet for a quality binocular.

Before you decide if you are going to be Team Porro or Team Roof, make sure you choose your astronomy binoculars depending on your astronomy levels that you have to match with the device’s price/value ratio. Porro prism designs offer better performance for the money. The high-quality ones also feature BAK-4 optical glass, a standard for some of the best binoculars for astronomy on this list.

If you are a beginner or intermediate astronomy enthusiast and you do not want to invest in a telescope just yet, Porro prism astronomy binoculars will show you the way to quitting the hobby, or, on the contrary, develop on it with upgraded pieces of equipment.

Best Binoculars for Astronomy: Bottom Line

We hope you enjoyed our top of best binoculars for astronomy and the reviews we offered. Now, it is your time to speak your mind!

Did you ever use astronomy binoculars or other optical devices for stargazing, nature watching, sports, events, or outdoor adventures? If so, tell us what is your favorite model and what other binoculars for stargazing you recommend to beginners and enthusiasts?