Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ Telescope Review

Let’s Dive into Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ Telescope

The Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ Telescope promises an affordable entry point into the captivating world of astronomy. Celestron, a name synonymous with quality optics, aims to deliver a user-friendly experience for beginners without compromising on performance. With its 70mm aperture, included eyepieces, and lightweight design, the AstroMaster LT 70AZ seems poised to be the perfect gateway to exploring the cosmos for budding stargazers.

My interest in the Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ Telescope stems from a desire to share the wonders of the night sky with my children. I needed a telescope that was easy to set up, simple to use, and capable of providing satisfying views of celestial objects, all without breaking the bank. The AstroMaster LT 70AZ appeared to tick all those boxes.

Unboxing the telescope revealed a well-packaged kit. The components felt surprisingly sturdy for the price point, particularly the steel tripod. The optical tube itself was lightweight and the assembly process, guided by the included instructions, was refreshingly straightforward.

Compared to other beginner telescopes I’ve encountered, the Celestron stands out with its pre-assembled tripod and quick-release dovetail attachment. These features promised a hassle-free setup, a stark contrast to the often-frustrating assembly experiences of similar telescopes. I ultimately chose the Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ for its blend of affordability, ease of use, and reputable brand name.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The telescope appeared well-built and easy to assemble, but the true test would be its performance under the night sky. I was excited to finally share the planets and stars with my family, but also realistic about the limitations of an entry-level instrument.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ Telescope to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ Telescope was in my backyard, a suburban setting with moderate light pollution. The skies were clear, and I was eager to observe the Moon and Jupiter. Setting up the telescope took less than 15 minutes, a welcome relief after past experiences with more complicated models.

The telescope performed admirably under these conditions. The views of the Moon were crisp and detailed, revealing craters and lunar maria with impressive clarity. Jupiter’s cloud bands were visible, as were its four Galilean moons, appearing as tiny points of light. While the light pollution hindered views of fainter deep-sky objects, the AstroMaster LT 70AZ still delivered a satisfying initial experience.

Using the Alt-Azimuth mount took some getting used to, requiring smooth, deliberate movements to keep objects in the field of view. The StarPointer finderscope, once properly aligned, proved invaluable for locating celestial targets. A slight vibration in the tripod was noticeable, especially at higher magnifications, but it wasn’t a major impediment.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ Telescope has proven to be a reliable and enjoyable instrument. The telescope has held up well, with no signs of significant wear and tear. I have transported it several times to darker observing sites with no issues.

Durability-wise, the steel tripod feels robust and the optical tube is well-protected. The plastic components, such as the focuser knobs and accessory tray, seem adequately sturdy. Cleaning the lens is straightforward using a microfiber cloth and lens cleaning solution.

Compared to other small telescopes I’ve used, the AstroMaster LT 70AZ offers a better balance of portability, ease of use, and optical performance. While it doesn’t match the light-gathering power of larger telescopes, its compact size and simple operation make it a frequent choice for quick observing sessions. It is a perfect Grab-and-Go telescope.

Breaking Down the Features of Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ Telescope

Specifications

• Optical Design: Refractor. Refractors use lenses to gather and focus light, offering sharp, high-contrast images, especially at higher magnifications.
• Aperture: 70mm. The aperture determines the telescope’s light-gathering ability; 70mm is suitable for viewing bright objects like the Moon, planets, and some brighter deep-sky objects.
• Focal Length: 700mm. The focal length influences the telescope’s magnification; a longer focal length results in higher magnification with a given eyepiece.
• Focal Ratio: f/10. The focal ratio is the focal length divided by the aperture; f/10 is considered a relatively slow focal ratio, providing good image contrast and sharpness.
• Eyepieces: 20mm (35x) and 10mm (70x). The included eyepieces offer two different magnifications, allowing for versatile viewing of various celestial objects.
• Finderscope: StarPointer. The StarPointer finderscope projects a red dot onto a viewing window, making it easier to aim the telescope at desired targets.
• Mount Type: Altazimuth. The Altazimuth mount moves the telescope up-and-down (altitude) and left-to-right (azimuth), similar to a camera tripod.
• Tripod Material: Steel. A steel tripod provides a stable base for the telescope, minimizing vibrations and improving viewing comfort.
• Highest Useful Magnification: 165x. The maximum magnification achievable with the telescope while still maintaining image clarity; exceeding this limit results in blurry images.
• SkyX Astronomy Software: Included software providing a database of 10,000+ objects, coordinates, and informative images.

These specifications combine to create a telescope that is relatively easy to use while providing decent optical performance for beginners. The 70mm aperture provides enough light-gathering capability for viewing brighter celestial objects, while the included eyepieces and finderscope make it easier to find and observe those objects.

Performance & Functionality

The Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ Telescope performs admirably for its intended purpose: introducing beginners to astronomy. The optics provide clear and detailed views of the Moon, planets, and some brighter deep-sky objects. The telescope’s functionality is straightforward and intuitive, making it easy for novice astronomers to get started.

One of its strengths is its ease of use. The pre-assembled tripod and quick-release dovetail mount make setup a breeze. The StarPointer finderscope, once properly aligned, makes it simple to locate celestial targets. However, the Altazimuth mount requires some practice to master, and the tripod can be prone to vibration at higher magnifications.

The AstroMaster LT 70AZ meets expectations for an entry-level telescope. It delivers satisfying views of the Moon and planets, and it’s easy to use and transport. It’s a great starting point for exploring the wonders of the night sky.

Design & Ergonomics

The Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ Telescope features a lightweight and compact design. The materials used are generally of good quality for the price point, with a sturdy steel tripod and a durable optical tube. The telescope is comfortable to use, with conveniently placed focuser knobs and a smooth-operating Altazimuth mount.

The telescope is designed with user-friendliness in mind. The pre-assembled tripod and quick-release dovetail mount make setup quick and easy. The StarPointer finderscope simplifies the process of locating celestial targets. However, there is a slight learning curve associated with using the Altazimuth mount.

Durability & Maintenance

The Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ Telescope appears to be durable enough to withstand normal use. The steel tripod provides a stable base, and the optical tube is well-protected. With proper care and maintenance, this telescope should last for many years.

Maintaining the telescope is straightforward. The lens can be cleaned with a microfiber cloth and lens cleaning solution. The tripod and mount can be wiped down with a damp cloth. Periodic lubrication of the mount may be necessary to ensure smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ Telescope comes with two eyepieces (20mm and 10mm) and the StarPointer finderscope. The included accessory tray provides a convenient place to store eyepieces and other accessories.

The telescope can be customized with a variety of aftermarket accessories. Additional eyepieces with different focal lengths can be used to achieve different magnifications. A Barlow lens can be used to double or triple the magnification of existing eyepieces. Filters can be used to enhance views of specific celestial objects. The telescope is compatible with standard 1.25-inch eyepieces, making it easy to find compatible accessories from other brands.

Pros and Cons of Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ Telescope

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Who Should Buy Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ Telescope?

• Perfect for: Beginning astronomers, families with children interested in space, and anyone looking for an affordable and easy-to-use telescope. It is also suitable for those who want a grab-and-go telescope for quick viewing sessions.
• Who should skip this product? Experienced astronomers looking for high-resolution views of faint deep-sky objects.
• Must-have accessories or modifications? A wider range of eyepieces for different magnifications and a Moon filter to reduce glare.

Conclusion on Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ Telescope

The Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ Telescope is a well-rounded entry-level telescope that delivers on its promise of affordability and ease of use. It provides satisfying views of the Moon and planets, making it an excellent starting point for budding astronomers. While it has some limitations, such as the Altazimuth mount and tripod vibration, these are minor compared to its overall value.

The price is definitely justified given its capabilities and the included accessories. For anyone looking to explore the wonders of the night sky without breaking the bank, the Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ is an excellent choice.

I would personally recommend the Celestron AstroMaster LT 70AZ Telescope to anyone interested in getting started in astronomy. It is a gateway to a fascinating hobby that can provide years of enjoyment. Take the plunge, and discover the universe!