From the July 2026 issue

20 essential observing accessories

You’ll need more than a telescope to see the sky at its best. This curated list collects all the must-haves for today’s observers.
By | Published: May 21, 2026 | Last updated on May 22, 2026

A telescope alone is not enough for a great observing experience. You will need the right accessories to enhance your scope’s performance and fully enjoy your nights under the stars. I have assembled the list below based on a lifetime spent observing the skies. My recommendations include items like a finder scope, eyepieces, filters, reference materials, a red flashlight, and more to help you make the most of each observing session. So, prepare your wish list. It’s time to go shopping.

Explore Scientific 99% Reflective 2-inch Diagonal and Celestron 1.25″ Dielectric Star Diagonal with Twist-Lock

Explore Scientific 99% Reflective 2-inch Diagonal
Celestron 1.25″ Dielectric Star Diagonal with Twist-Lock

A star diagonal bends the path of light as it exits your scope, allowing for more comfortable viewing. Explore Scientific’s 99% Reflective 2-inch Diagonal incorporates dielectric-coated mirrors with high reflectivity and wide-field performance for telescopes designed for 2″ eyepieces. It also supports 11/4″ eyepieces using the supplied adapter. The Celestron 1.25″ Dielectric Star Diagonal with Twist-Lock is ideal for telescopes that accept 11/4″ eyepieces exclusively. Both are favored by the amateur community for their optical quality and durability.