Sky-Watcher Heritage 150P

A collapsible 6-inch Dobsonian that folds down small enough to fit in a backpack. The FlexTube design retracts the upper tube assembly, cutting the stored length nearly in half. Extended, it delivers the same views as any 150mm reflector. At around $280, it's possibly the best telescope for people who live in apartments or want to drive to dark-sky sites without renting a truck. The parabolic primary mirror punches well above its price class. The only compromise is the tabletop mount — bring a sturdy surface.