Telescopes for Members
An incredible member benefit that allows you to rent astronomy gear to learn and enjoy the night sky.
Discover the Telescopes for Members program
The Calgary Centre offers a Scopes for Rent program exclusively for members.** This program provides access to a variety of telescopes at very affordable rates. It’s a convenient way to gain hands-on experience, explore different models before purchasing, or have a telescope ready for your next star party or special event. The Calgary Center of the RASC has a diverse range of instruments ranging from astronomical binoculars to 8 inch dobsonians, and go-to SCT’s. All telescopes come with finder scopes, eyepieces, and a moon filter.
The telescopes are rented for 1 month minimum and in increments of one month. Renters may keep the telescope for additional month(s) until another RASC member requests to rent it, in which case it will be recalled at the end of its current term by the program coordinator. If you want a particular telescope, request it up to a month ahead of the desired rental date, and it should be available. Interim payments may be required if telescopes are kept for extended periods.
**There are only two prerequisites for renting a telescope: You must be a member of the Calgary RASC Center, and you must be an adult. 18+ (youth may participate through a parent member) See further program guidelines at the bottom of this page.
**Please Note**
You must be a member of the Calgary Centre of the RASC to be able to take part of this program and many of our other benefits.
For more information, head over to our Become A Member page.
Telescope Rental Guidelines
**Please familiarize yourself with the details below before renting- Requests are to be made via email by contacting tfmprogram@calgaryrasc.ca.
- A form will be provided from the Centre that outlines the conditions of rental, renters personal information and equipment requested.
- Verification will be provided to the successful applicant along with the exchange date.
- Multiple requests for an instrument will be prioritized in order of receipt of the request.
- Rentals are for a one month period which is renewable if there are no further requests for the item. (Up to 4 months max)
- Scopes are picked up and dropped off at specific times at Public Storage, 2450 Centre Avenue NE, Calgary.
- Drop-offs to occur once a month, the second weekend of the month on Saturdays between the hours of 1100 hrs. and 1400 hrs., with pick-ups the following day between the hours of 1100 hrs. and 1400 hrs.
- Volunteers will be onsite to handle the exchanges.
- As members arrive at the location they will phone a volunteer who will provide instructions for the exchange. (Telephone numbers will be provided via email.)
- Payment is made via e-transfer at the end of the contract month. When completing the e-transfer please indicate in the notes section which scope is rented.
Explore our lineup
Rent, telescopes, binoculars, star trackers or solar telescopes
Dobsonians
Dobsonians are often called the “beginner’s best friend.” They’re simple to set up, very stable, and give you big views for a low cost. With their large mirrors, they’re perfect for stunning views of the Moon, planets, and even distant galaxies—all without complicated controls.
Refractor
Refractors are the classic telescope design—long tubes with lenses at the front. They give crisp, high-contrast views that are especially good for the Moon and planets. They’re lightweight, low maintenance, and easy to point, making them great for first-time users.
Reflector / Newtonian
Reflectors use mirrors instead of lenses, which means you get a lot of light-gathering power for less money. They’re fantastic for exploring deep-sky objects like star clusters and nebulae, while still showing clear views of planets. A solid all-around choice for curious beginners.
Schmidt–Cassegrain
SCTs are compact, versatile telescopes that do a bit of everything. They combine good light-gathering with a portable design, so you can enjoy crisp views of both the planets and deep space without needing a huge setup. A great balance of power and convenience.
Maksutov
Maksutovs are known for their sharp, detailed images—especially of the Moon and planets. They’re small, sturdy, and require almost no maintenance, which makes them perfect if you want an easy, grab-and-go telescope that still delivers impressive performance.
Binoculars
Binoculars are the simplest way to start exploring the night sky. They’re lightweight, easy to use, and let you sweep across star fields, spot craters on the Moon, and even catch bright star clusters. Ideal for absolute beginners or anyone who wants quick, casual stargazing.
Star Tracker Mounts
A star tracker mount makes astrophotography easy by automatically following the movement of the stars. This means your camera can take longer exposures without star trails, capturing stunning detail in the night sky. They’re compact, lightweight, and ideal for anyone who wants to start photographing the Milky Way or constellations.
Hydrogen-Alpha Solar Telescopes
H-Alpha telescopes let you safely view the Sun in incredible detail. Unlike regular solar filters, these telescopes reveal features like solar flares, prominences, and sunspots in real time. They’re a unique and exciting option for daytime observing, perfect if you’ve ever wanted to see the Sun up close and alive with activity.