Glossary | Telescopes | Optics | Type
There are basically two different types of telescope. A distinction is made between refractor (lens) and reflector (mirror) telescopes.
How is a telescope constructed?
A telescope consists of the optic, the mount, the tripod, and the eyepieces. Here you will discover more about the individual components. The most important differences can be found in the design: an important distinction is made here between lens telescopes (refractors) and mirror telescopes (reflectors). These two designs are themselves split into different subtypes.
The diagram illustrates the various sizes of commercially available telescopes for beginners: