The Maksutov telescope is a type of catadioptric telescope that combines lenses and mirrors to form images. It features a spherical primary mirror and a corrector lens at the front, which helps reduce optical aberrations. This design allows for a compact and portable telescope, making it popular among amateur astronomers. Maksutov telescopes are known for their excellent image quality and versatility, suitable for both planetary and deep-sky observations. They come in various sizes and can be used for astrophotography as well. Their robust construction and ease of use make them a favored choice for stargazers.