While there are no rules defining what makes a “planetary eyepiece,” observers will certainly tell you they want high magnification, high contrast, low aberrations, and an absence of scattered light and ghost images. In recent years a handful of specialized planetary eyepieces have entered the market, but what sets the new Burgess Optical/TMB models apart from others is price. At $99 each, they could easily be considered bargains in the run-of-the-mill eyepiece category. Yet these oculars designed by Thomas M. Back have been optimized for planetary viewing. Check out the company’s website for more information about this eyepiece line, which includes focal lengths of 2.5, 3.2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 mm.

Contact: Burgess Optical, 6111 Beaver Ridge Rd., Knoxville, TN 37931; 865-694-8563; www.burgessoptical.com

Every year the editors of Sky & Telescope present their selection of the most intriguing new products to enter the marketplace. "Hot New Products for 2007" appeared in the January 2007 issue, page 100. For further information about a specific product, contact the manufacturer or distributor. To alert the editors of Sky & Telescope to the introduction of a new product, please send e-mail to nps@SkyandTelescope.com.