Stephen Tonkin
Binocular astronomer
Stephen Tonkin is an experienced binocular astronomer and astronomy communicator.
Recent articles by Stephen Tonkin
Best binoculars for astronomy
Binoculars are a great way of getting into astronomy and stargazing.
Best binocular targets to see tonight | 6 beautiful objects to see in the night sky with binoculars throughout November 2025
With binoculars you can see so much more in the night sky. Take our deep-sky tour and find out.
Observing guide | 10 autumn binocular astronomy targets
You can see a lot in the night sky with a pair of binoculars. Here are 10 of the best bino targets in Autumn.
4 star-hops to help you navigate the night sky
Use these easy methods to find 4 different targets in the night sky.
5 top tips for binocular astronomy and stargazing
A pair of binoculars can be one of the best stargazing tools for opening up the wonders of the night sky.
How do you classify a star? A guide to stellar classification and what they mean.
Our guide to what spectral classes mean and what they can tell us about a star.
Hawke Endurance ED 10x50 binoculars ideal for astronomy and stargazing
With crisp views and excellent colour fidelity, these binoculars are ideal for stargazing
Nirvana UWA-82˚ eyepiece set review
This ultra-wide five-piece set offers a worthy step-up from your kit eyepieces
Opticron Adventurer 10x50 binoculars review
Get crisp, bright views without having to spend a fortune.
Canon 12x36 image stabilisation III binoculars review
Image stabilisation tech helps you see more of the night sky without a mount.
Opticron Oregon WA 10x50 binoculars review
The Opticron Oregon WA 10x50 model is an affordable, lightweight pair of binoculars that perform well and will surely inspire newcomers to astronomy.
Explore Scientific G400 15x56 roof prism binoculars review
Satisfyingly sturdy, this pair fits the bill for moongazing and sharp, colourful stars.
Celestron Echelon 16x70 binoculars
Eye relief, good balance and anti-dew measures make these binos worth a look.
Vixen Atera H12x30 stabilised binoculars review
The Vixen Atera H12x30 is a fantastically portable pair binoculars featuring image stabilisation, great for both general and astronomical use.
Celestron SkyMaster Pro 20x80 binoculars and 10Micron BM100 Leonardo mount review
The Celestron SkyMaster Pro 20x80 binoculars and 10Micron BM100 Leonardo mount is a perfect pairing that enables your binocular observing to move to the next level.
Canon 14x32 IS binoculars review
Tame your trembling arms to guarantee smooth views with Canon’s image-stabilising 14x32 IS binoculars.
Orion Monster Parallelogram mount, GiantView 25x100 binoculars
The Orion Monster Parallelogram mount and GiantView 25x100 binoculars is a well-balanced and versatile observing system that delivers deep-sky results
Bresser Spezial Astro SF 15x70 binoculars review
The Spezial Astro SF 15x70s are great for binocular astronomers with experience who wish to step up from budget models.
Opticron Oregon Observation 20x80 binoculars review
If you want a larger pair of binoculars without breaking the bank, the Opticron Oregon Observation 20x80s should be on your shortlist.
Celestron Upclose G2 10x50 binoculars review
Optical issues mean the Celestron Upclose G2 10x50 binoculars review are best for casual use.
How to hold your binoculars steady
Steady your binoculars with items found around the home and keep your stargazing free of arm fatigue.
Opticron Oregon Observation 11x70 binoculars review
Great for deep-sky observing, but steer clear of bright, high-contrast targets.
How to star-hop the night sky
Stuck trying to find stars? Star-hopping is a tried and tested technique that will help you to navigate the sky.
Best binoculars for birdwatching and astronomy
What makes a pair of binoculars good for both birdwatching and astronomy?