The ability of a telescope to “zoom” or magnify a distant object doesn’t directly depend on the cost or the size of the eyepiece. Instead, it’s based on the combination of the telescope’s entire optical system, particularly the focal length of both the telescope’s objective lens or mirror and the eyepiece.
The magnification power of a telescope is calculated by dividing the focal length of the telescope by the focal length of the eyepiece. Therefore, even a less expensive telescope with a longer focal length can achieve high magnification if paired with a suitably short focal length eyepiece. In contrast, a more costly telescope equipped with a larger eyepiece that has a longer focal length might actually provide less magnification.
However, more expensive telescopes often incorporate better materials, superior build quality, and advanced optical components, which can enhance overall image quality, brightness, clarity, and limit unwanted aberrations. These factors can provide a higher quality viewing experience and possibly a sharper image at higher magnifications.
Ultimately, while a costly telescope might offer superior features and better quality optics, it doesn’t inherently offer more “zoom” just because it’s expensive or has a bigger eyepiece. The key lies in the appropriate matching of the telescope’s and the eyepiece’s focal lengths to achieve the desired magnification without sacrificing image quality.