Real Instruments Celestron AstroMaster 130EQ 130mm (5.1-inch) Newtonian Reflector Telescope with Manual German Equatorial Mount, 650mm Focal Length, Dual Eyepieces (20mm & 10mm), StarPointer Finderscope, Adjustable Steel Tripod, and Full Accessory Tray

The Celestron AstroMaster 130EQ is a versatile Newtonian reflector telescope designed for both novice and experienced astronomers. It offers a blend of performance and ease of use, making it suitable for observing celestial objects such as the Moon, planets, star clusters, and galaxies.

Key Specifications:

• Optical Design: Newtonian Reflector
• Aperture: 130 mm (5.1 inches)
• Focal Length: 650 mm
• Focal Ratio: f/5
• Eyepieces Included:
  • 20 mm (33x magnification)
  • 10 mm (65x magnification)
• Finderscope: Built-in StarPointer™ red dot finderscope
• Mount Type: Manual German Equatorial
• Tripod: Adjustable, full-height steel tripod with deluxe accessory tray
• Optical Coatings: Aluminum mirrors with SiO₂ coatings
• Optical Tube Length: 552 mm (21.7 inches)
• Weight: Approximately 24 lbs (10.9 kg)

Features:

• High Light-Gathering Power: The 130 mm aperture allows for bright and detailed views of celestial objects, enhancing the observing experience.
• Manual German Equatorial Mount: Facilitates smooth tracking of celestial objects across the night sky, essential for astronomical observations.
• Quick and Easy Setup: Designed for straightforward assembly, enabling users to begin observing shortly after unboxing.
• Dual-Purpose Design: Capable of providing correct views of both land and sky, making it versatile for various observational needs.
• Accessory Tray: The included accessory tray offers convenient storage for eyepieces and other small items during observations.

Performance:

The AstroMaster 130EQ delivers clear and sharp images of the Moon, planets, star clusters, and other deep-sky objects. Its 130 mm aperture provides a good balance between light-gathering capability and portability, making it suitable for both beginners and intermediate astronomers.

Considerations:

While the AstroMaster 130EQ offers excellent value, some users have noted that the manual equatorial mount may require practice to master, especially for tracking objects over extended periods. Additionally, the included eyepieces are suitable for general use, but upgrading to higher-quality eyepieces can enhance the viewing experience.

Conclusion:

The Celestron AstroMaster 130EQ is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and easy-to-use telescope for astronomical observations. Its combination of a substantial aperture, user-friendly design, and dual-purpose functionality makes it a commendable option for both beginners and seasoned astronomers.