Comet Enthusiast

List Price: $97.99
Sale Price: $42.99
You save: $55.00 (56%)

Description

"The Meade NG-60 60mm refracting telescope is an excellent first telescope for the beginning astronomer or the casual observer of land or sky. Supplied complete with two eyepieces, a fine achromatic objective lens, a fully adjustable aluminum tripod, and the modern, highly functional Meade NG-series altazimuth mounting, the NG-60 easily surpasses commonly available, lower-quality introductory telescopes. The Meade NG-60 altazimuth refractor also makes an excellent land-view instrument for the birdwatcher, the naturalist, or the homeowner with a view. In conjunction with the single-arm mount are precision manual slow-motion controls on each axis, to permit smooth telescope motion. All of the major planets except Pluto are easily observable through the NG-60. Study Saturn and its ring system; the primary cloud belts of Jupiter as well as its four major satellites; the Moonlike phases of Mercury and Venus; prominent features on Mars; and the starlike images of the distant Uranus and Neptune. The Moon stands out in stark, almost three-dimensional detail: craters, mountain ranges, and fault lines. You'll be able to see hundreds of nebulae, star clusters, double and multiple stars, and variable stars in our galaxy, plus dozens of other galaxies as well. "

Features

• Terra Star 60mm Refracting Telescope
• Slow-motion controls on each axis, to permit smooth telescope motion
• An excellent land-view instrument for the birdwatcher, the naturalist, or the homeowner with a view.
• All of the major planets except Pluto are easily observable through the NG-60.
• You'll be able to see hundreds of nebulae, star clusters, and multiple stars, in our galaxy

List Price: $97.99
Sale Price: $42.99
You save: $55.00 (56%)

Description

"The Meade NG-60 60mm refracting telescope is an excellent first telescope for the beginning astronomer or the casual observer of land or sky. Supplied complete with two eyepieces, a fine achromatic objective lens, a fully adjustable aluminum tripod, and the modern, highly functional Meade NG-series altazimuth mounting, the NG-60 easily surpasses commonly available, lower-quality introductory telescopes. The Meade NG-60 altazimuth refractor also makes an excellent land-view instrument for the birdwatcher, the naturalist, or the homeowner with a view. In conjunction with the single-arm mount are precision manual slow-motion controls on each axis, to permit smooth telescope motion. All of the major planets except Pluto are easily observable through the NG-60. Study Saturn and its ring system; the primary cloud belts of Jupiter as well as its four major satellites; the Moonlike phases of Mercury and Venus; prominent features on Mars; and the starlike images of the distant Uranus and Neptune. The Moon stands out in stark, almost three-dimensional detail: craters, mountain ranges, and fault lines. You'll be able to see hundreds of nebulae, star clusters, double and multiple stars, and variable stars in our galaxy, plus dozens of other galaxies as well. "

Features

• Terra Star 60mm Refracting Telescope
• Slow-motion controls on each axis, to permit smooth telescope motion
• An excellent land-view instrument for the birdwatcher, the naturalist, or the homeowner with a view.
• All of the major planets except Pluto are easily observable through the NG-60.
• You'll be able to see hundreds of nebulae, star clusters, and multiple stars, in our galaxy

Description

Carson Red Planet Series Refractor Telescope with Tripod - 50 - 100 x 90mm

List Price: $73.95
Sale Price: $31.46
You save: $42.49 (57%)

Description

In 1609, world-renowned Italian scientist, Galileo Galilei, introduced an elementary telescope to the growing astronomy community, which sparked interest into the mysterious night sky for centuries to come. Four centuries later, in celebration of the International Year of Astronomy 2009, Celestron offers the portable FirstScope Telescope. The FirstScope pays tribute to Galileo Galilei and many of history's most notable astronomers and scientists by displaying their names around the optical tube. Honoring the contributions of these men and women, who brought us one step closer to understanding the universe around us. The FirstScope is a wonderful keepsake for anyone interested in astronomy. This quality Dobsonian style telescope features a 76mm aperture reflector optical tube. FirstScope is an ideal entry-level astronomical telescope. It is very easy to observe with; you simply navigate the night sky by moving the tube in the direction of the desired object, making the viewing experience a snap! The compact design makes it easy enough to take with you on your next outdoor adventure. FirstScope is also stylish enough to be a decorative fixture on your bookshelf or desk.

Features

• FirstScope Telescope
• 76mm aperture reflector optical tube
• Moveable tube for ease of navigation for viewing
• Lightweight, portable
• Two eyepieces included

List Price: $183.95
Sale Price: $99.99
You save: $83.96 (46%)

Description

Celestron AstroMaster 70AZ 45 - 90X Refractor Telescope. Affordable, powerful, lightweight... the perfect choice for amateur astronomers and backyard stargazers! Proving once again that you don't need NASA's budget to see the stars. If you're aiming to get started in astronomy, the AstroMaster 70AZ's blend of quality optics, entry-level usability and affordable price is tough to beat. It's lightweight, easy to haul to the darker skies found outside city limits, and requires no tools to set up. For celestial and "earthbound" observation on a dime, the Celestron AstroMaster outshines the rest! Specifications: Pan-handle altazimuth style mount controls easily for smooth pointing; perfect for terrestrial and celestial viewing; 70 mm aperture size; Includes 20 mm eyepiece for 45X magnification, 10 mm eyepiece for 90X; Refractor optical design; Fully-coated glass optics with high-transmission coatings for enhanced brightness and clarity; Built-in StarPointer red laser for easy targeting; Comes with The Sky X Planetarium software, featuring a 10,000 object database to get you started; Focal length: 900 mm; Focal ratio: 12.86; Limiting stellar magnitude: 11.7; Light-gathering power: 165X; Angular F.O.V.: 1.1 degrees; Linear F.O.V.: 58'; Optical tube length: 36"; 1.25" erect image diagonal; Weighs 18 lbs. Includes aluminum tripod with 1.25" steel tube legs. Order yours today! Celestron AstroMaster 70AZ 45-90X Refractor Telescope

Features

• Quick and easy no-tool setup
• Permanently mounted StarPointer
• Erect image optics - Ideal for terrestrial and astronomical use
• Quick release dovetail attachment - no tool setup
• Pan handle Alt-Az control with clutch - for smooth and accurate pointing

List Price: $55.95
Sale Price: $38.26
You save: $17.69 (32%)

Description

The Celestron® PowerSeeker 50 telescope is a great way to open up the wonders of the universe to the aspiring astronomer. It's portable yet powerful with ample optical performance to excite any newcomer to the world of amateur astronomy.

Features

• Optical Design - Refractor
• Aperture - 50mm
• Focal Length - 600mm
• F-Number - 12
• Finderscope - 5x24

Sale Price: $284.95

Description

Whiter and brighter images. Simply put, that is the benefit the Everbrite mirror coating. This exotic, dielectric, nonmetallic coating is 99% reflective across the full visual spectrum, resulting in the "whitest," most natural image available. The coating is painstakingly applied to Pyrex with a surface accuracy of a 1/10 wave flatness. The Everbrite is offered in both 1¼" and 2" models. The diagonal bodies of each are machined from solid blocks of aluminum. In this way we can insure permanent alignment. The one piece body construction also assures heavy accessories can't force the diagonal body to "unscrew" from the barrel as with other brands. Both the 1¼" and 2" models feature brass clamp rings, anti-reflection threads and 1¼" and 48mm filter threads respectively.

Features

• The diagonal body is machined from a solid block of aluminum
• Permanent alignment is assured
• Features brass clamp rings, anti-reflection threads
• The one piece body construction also means heavy accessories can't force the diagonal body to unscrew from the barrel
• Ideal for refractor telescopes

List Price: $149.00
Sale Price: $79.95
You save: $69.05 (46%)

Description

Some of the worldâ?TMs top astronomers got started with a telescope just like this one â?" and so will you. A quality refracting telescope for land or sky viewing. It's perfect for observing the Moon, planets and land objects like mountains, trees and wildlife.

Features

• Captures more light for brighter images and greater detail
• Includes two 1.25"; eyepieces: SP9.7mm 103X; and SP26 mm 38X; for superior eye relief and wide visual field
• Includes Red-dot projection viewfinder for easy acquisition of guide stars while star-hopping for celestial targets
• Amazing planetarium software and Instructional Video teaches you the night sky and how to use your telescope
• 52Hx36Wx30.38D"
• Telescope Features: Crayford Style Focuser, Red Dot Viewfinder, Open Metal Truss Design
• Magnification: 0.
• Recommended Use: Astronomy
• Focal Length: 700.0 mm.
• Objective Lens Size: 0. mm.
• Eyepiece Type:SP 9.7mm, SP 26mm
• Mount Type: Altazimuth
• Includes: Tabletop Tripod, Tripod, Autostar Suite Astronomical Software
• Material: Plastic
• Power Source: Manual
• Optical Tube Dimensions: Diameter: 0". Length: 0".
• Warranty Description: 1 Year Limited Manufacturer Warranty, 100% Parts and Labor, Up to $200 Replacement

Sale Price: $99.99

Description

If you're looking for an affordable entry-level telescope for that beginning astronomy enthusiast, our SpaceProbe 3 Altaz is the perfect choice. Great for all-around stargazing, this highly portable, uncomplicated scope is just the right size and weight for the entire family, and just the right price for parents. This is a quality telescope, with a 3" (76mm) glass primary mirror mounted in a sturdy Neptune Blue Metallic aluminum tube. The rack-and-pinion focuser accepts standard 1.25" eyepieces. Two Explorer II eyepieces, a low-power 25mm (28x) and a high-power 10mm (70x), are included. An EZ Finder II finder scope mounted on the tube helps zero-in on the sky target. The altazimuth mount is lightweight and easy to use. To aim it, simply move it up or down or left or right. An adjustable, aluminum tripod with accessory tray is also included. One-year limited warranty.

Orion's surprising little Spaceprobe 3 has been picked by independent reviewers as one of the best telescopes in its price class. Unlike similar telescopes seen in discount stores, Orion has refined the Spaceprobe 3 by paying attention to the little details, and that make this telescope a great value. The Spaceprobe 3 comes with an unusually complete set of accessories. The package includes two very good Explorer II eyepieces (25mm and 10mm), an adjustable altazimuth tripod, a good red-dot finder, a student edition of "The Sky" planetarium program, and a well written manual. The package even includes the tools you'll need to assemble the telescope and align the optics. The Spaceprobe 3 is a Newtonian reflector. That means it uses mirrors instead of lenses. Newtonians are primarily used for astronomy because the images are upside-down. Orion includes a collimation tool and good directions for aligning the mirrors. The reward for aligning the mirrors is seen in images that snap into sharp focus. My Spaceprobe 3 arrived properly aligned right out of the box. With its Explorer II eyepieces, this telescope consistently delivers fine views. Using the 25mm eyepiece (28x magnification) the Pleiades cluster is simply wonderful, showing dozens of stars. From a rural location with a dark sky, the Orion Nebula is a big ghostly glow, and when I zoom in with the 10mm eyepiece, the Trapezium resolves into four tiny pinpoints. The double star Gamma Andromeda becomes two beads of light, one gold, the other one pale blue. Moon and planet images are crisp, with none of the false color I see in low cost refractors. When I look at the Moon I see mountains and terraced walls inside the larger craters. With the 10mm eyepiece (about 70x), Saturn's rings are sharply separated from the planet, and I can even pick out the planet's shadow on the rings. The Altazimuth mount included with this telescope is light and easy to use; it may be the best choice for a young astronomer. If you want motorized tracking of the stars and planets, Orion's Spaceprobe 3 EQ is available with an equatorial mount, and Celestron sells essentially the same optical system with the computerized NexStar 76GT. -Jeff Phillips Pros: Best in class optical performance Two good Explorer II eyepieces Complete accessory package Cons: Small 76mm aperture Upside-down terrestrial images

Features

• A fantastic beginner telescope that's lightweight.
• 76mm aperture reflector telescope is large enough for wonderful views of the Moon.
• The included EZ Finder II makes finding celestial objects a breeze.
• Includes two 1.25" telescope eyepieces, EZ Finder II reflex sight, smooth rack and pinion focuser.

Sale Price: $169.99

Description

Orion’s Observer 70 EQ combines the solid optical performance of a classic achromatic refractor with a German style equatorial mount. The Observer 70 features very good optics and 36 percent more light gathering power than 60mm beginner scopes. The complete accessory package includes high and low power eyepieces, a 90 degree star diagonal, a red-dot finder, illustrated instructions, and Orion‘s Starry Night Special Edition astronomy software. The Observer 70 EQ features very good optical performance. Achromatic refractors have a two piece objective lens, the second lens element compensates for “chromatic aberration”, the false color or blue fringes seen in low cost telescopes. In daylight tests I see very little blue fringing with the standard equipment 10mm eyepiece (70X magnification), and none at all with the 25mm eyepiece (28X). Stars and planets show up very nicely with the Observer 70. The quadruple star in the Orion Nebula known as the Trapezium is cleanly split into four components with the 10mm eyepiece (70X magnification). When I combine the 10mm eyepiece with a 2X Barlow lens for 140X magnification, I’m treated to lovely views of Saturn’s rings and the little orange disk of Mars. My view of the Moon is delightfully crisp and clear; the 25mm eyepiece nicely frames the Lunar disk, and using the 10mm eyepiece I can easily see mountain peaks and terraced walls inside the crater Copernicus. The Observer 70 EQ also features an aluminum tripod and an EQ-1 equatorial mount. The equatorial mount is a little more complicated to balance and align than the Observer 70 AZ , but the reward is better slow motion control and tracking at magnifications over 100X. Simply point the equatorial axis at Polaris, the North Star, and the telescope tracks celestial objects by turning one slow motion knob. This makes it much easier to use a high power eyepiece while viewing the Moon and Planets. The “EZ Finder II” works by shining a red LED on a small window; just look through the window and line up the red spot with your target. This works OK for bright objects like the Moon and planets but not so well for finding galaxies and deep space objects. Orion’s Observer 70 EQ is simply a very good entry level telescope for a student or family. The good quality 70mm optics produce an image that is significantly sharper and brighter than 60mm beginner scopes, and the package includes a solid mount, two good eyepieces, and fully illustrated instructions. --Jeff Phillips Pros: Reliable refractor design Good views of the Moon and planets Complete accessory package Starry Night software included Cons: Finder only works for bright objects

This tried-and-true refractor goes the extra distance in introducing the novice to the wonders of the night sky. The Observer 70 features a 70mm fully anti-reflection coated achromatic objective lens, which provides 36% more light-gathering ability than a 60mm. Its 700mm focal length (f/10) will show you the stark beauty of the lunar surface, Saturn's rings, Jupiter's atmospheric belts, or the billowy clouds of the Orion Nebula. The included EQ-1 equatorial mount comes equipped with dual slow-motion controls for manual star tracking and adjustable aluminum tripod. Includes an EZ Finder II finder scope to help you zero in on your celestial targets, two eyepieces - 25mm (1.25") and 10mm (1.25") - and 90-deg star diagonal. One year limited warranty.

Features

• A great entry-level refractor telescope at a very affordable price
• Reveals detailed views of the Moon and bright planets such as Jupiter and Saturn
• 70mm (2.75") aperture and 700mm focal length provides great views of bright night-sky objects
• Includes sturdy tripod and equatorial (EQ) mount for convenient manual slow-motion tracking of celestial objects
• Includes two eyepieces, finder scope, focuser, 90-degree mirror diagonal for comfortable viewing
• Free Starry Night astronomy software and DVD, and more!

List Price: $39.95
Sale Price: $32.51
You save: $7.44 (19%)

Description

Choosing and Using a Refracting Telescope has been written for the many amateur astronomers who already own, or are intending to purchase, a refracting telescope – perhaps to complement their existing arsenal of larger reflecting telescopes – or for the specialist who requires a particular refractor for serious astronomical applications or nature studies. Four hundred year ago, during the winter of 1609, a relatively unknown Italian scientist, Galileo Galilei designed a spyglass with two crude lenses and turned it skyward. Since then, refractors have retained their dominance over all types of reflector in studies of the Moon, planets and double stars because of the precision of their optics and lack of a central obstruction in the optical path, which causes diffraction effects in all commercially-made reflectors. Most mature amateur astronomers got started with a 60mm refractor, or something similar. Thirty years ago, there was little choice available to the hobbyist, but in the last decade long focus crown-flint achromats have moved aside for some exquisitely crafted apochromatic designs offered by leading commercial manufacturers. There has been a huge increase in the popularity of these telescopes in the last few years, led by a significant increase in the number of companies (particularly, William Optics, Orion USA, StellarVue, SkyWatcher and AstroTech) who are now heavily marketing refractors in the amateur astronomical magazines. In Choosing and Using a Refracting Telescope, well-known observer and astronomy writer Neil English celebrates the remarkable history and evolution of the refracting telescope and looks in detail at the instruments, their development and their use. A major feature of this book is the way it compares not only different classes of refractor, but also telescopes of each class that are sold by various commercial manufacturers. The author is perhaps uniquely placed to do this, having used and tested literally hundreds of different refracting telescopes over three decades. Because it includes many diverse subjects such as imaging with consumer-level digital cameras, imaging with webcams, and imaging with astronomical CCD cameras – that are not covered together in equal depth in any other single volume – Choosing and Using a Refracting Telescope could become the ‘refractor bible’ for amateur astronomers at all levels, especially those who are interested in imaging astronomical objects of every class.