Celestron AstroMaster 102AZ 102mm f/6.5 Alt-Az Refractor Telescope

Celestron 102AZ Overview

Designed as a dependable and highly portable starter scope, the Celestron AstroMaster 102AZ 102mm f/6.5 Alt-Az Refractor Telescope is a complete observational platform for making detailed observations of the moon and planets or for comet-hunting. Its manual alt-azimuth mount’s locking altitude clutch and locking pan handle allow users to easily find and track objects with reduced vibrations. The entire rig assembles and breaks down without the need for tools, so users can set up fast and get observing sooner.

This version of the AstroMaster comes with two eyepieces that yield low and medium magnifications and a 90° diagonal that sports an integrated erecting prism to correct images and allow the scope to be used as a conventional spotting scope for terrestrial use. The diagonal also places the user’s head in a more comfortable position, especially when it is pointed directly overhead. An adjustable-height stainless steel tripod supports the mount and optical tube and comes with a center tray that conveniently holds accessories while improving stability and reducing vibrations.

Optical Tube

• Large 102mm aperture is ideal for viewing the moon, planets, and bright deep-sky objects
• Moderate f/6.5 focal ratio
• 660mm focal length provides a moderate magnification potential
• Reliable refractor-style optical path does not require periodic maintenance
• Fully coated optics improve light transmission, color rendition, and contrast
• Resolution: 1.37 arcsec (Rayleigh); 1.14 arcsec (Dawes)
• Sturdy 1.25″ rack-and-pinion focuser
• Vixen-style CG-5 dovetail mounting plate

Mount and Tripod

• Mount:
  Manual alt-azimuth
  Locking control handle enables precise adjustments with reduced vibrations
  Manual base clutch locks mount in position
  Vixen-style CG-5 dovetail saddle accepts any OTA outfitted with compatible plates
• Tripod:
  1.25″ tubular stainless steel legs
  Adjustable height from 32 to 51″ accommodates a variety of users and observing positions
  Spiked feet to provide stability on rough or soft terrain
  Center tray adds stability and vibration reduction while offering a place to keep accessories and gear within easy reach
• Eyepieces:
  1.25″ diameter barrel
  Accept most astronomical eyepiece filters
  10mm focal length produces a high 66x magnification
  20mm focal length yields low 33x power
• Diagonal:
  90° angle places head in comfortable viewing position, especially when aimed directly overhead
  Integrated erecting prism corrects image for terrestrial viewing as a conventional spotting scope
  1.25″ nosepiece and eyepiece holder fits and accepts the most common sized focusers and accessories
• Red-Dot Finder:
  Permanently mounted in place
  Unmagnified view ensures easy alignment and fast star-hopping navigation
  Red illuminated center aiming dot is easy to see without obstructing small or dim objects