For just over a $100 this telescope is a great place to start. If you're unsure if astronomy is a hobby for you or you're on a tight budget, don't let the price fool you....this scope is quite capable.
I will say this about this telescope and any other for that matter.....curb your expectations. If you're seeking big vivid images....go see NASA. If your only prior experience with magnification of the night sky is a set of binoculars....please understand a reflector telescope like this is a totally different piece of equipment. There is a learning curve and some patience involved. If you can take your time with it as needed....it will reward you greatly.
I highly recommend you do some research before purchasing any telescope. Mainly the science behind them. These aren't exactly toys for children or for that matter adults who are inept and lack patience and skill.
It should be noted that the vast majority of negative reviews on most telescopes on Amazon come out of sheer ignorance of what was being purchased. That and frustration from not understanding how a reflector telescope works. Again...this is NOT a set of binoculars. It's not
complicated in any way to use....you just ultimately need to take the time to understand what it is, what it does and what it's capable of.
That said. This scope a great moon viewer with the provided 25mm eyepiece. And not too shabby with the included 10mm. I do recommend you invest in a 2x barlow....it's especially useful when combined with the 25mm eyepiece.
Planets like Venus and Jupiter are easily visible. I've seen Jupiter through this scope and all of its moons. I could just make out some of the banding on Jupiter as well.
Deep space objects like nebula and galaxies aren't impossible with this scope but will be a challenge. You'll need very good atmospheric conditions due to the 3.5 inch primary mirror this scope uses. The bigger the primary mirror...the more light you can capture and thus better viewing.
A very minor point. The description and pic describes it as "teal" in color. Its actually a much deeper darker green. Hunter green actually and it's quite attractive....if that really matters....since you're using it in the dark....just saying.
This scope is a great moon viewer. Pretty good with brighter planets and stars. It's a great place to start with telescopes. The build is quite good. No real complaints. Came boxed very well. In fact...over boxed...but that's a good thing. You'll see when you buy it.
Enjoy and I wish you clear skies.
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Reviews with images
Nice starter set, with some minor issues.
Pretty nice reflector overall. The tripod is sturdy and simple. The azimuth adjuster however leaves a lot to be desired. I discarded the stock adjuster and replaced it with some 1/4" threaded rod flattened on one end and drilled for the 10-32 pivot screw that attaches to the scope body, using wingnuts for adjustment. Its very crude but works much better than the OE version. With Orion's eyepiece adapter I have been able to get some satisfying images from my DSLR.
