A compound telescope combines lenses and mirrors to gather and focus light, allowing for clearer and more detailed images of distant objects. This design typically features a primary mirror and a secondary mirror, which work together to enhance magnification and reduce optical aberrations. These telescopes are popular among amateur astronomers and professionals alike due to their compact size and versatility. They can be used for various observations, including celestial bodies like the Moon, planets, and star clusters. The combination of lenses and mirrors makes them effective for both visual and astrophotography purposes.