Is this a good first telescope?

Yes, if you want automatic target finding and easy portability. Expect good Moon and planet views, not faint deep-sky objects.

What can I see with a 70mm refractor?

The Moon, Jupiter and its moons, Saturn's rings, bright star clusters and a few bright nebulae. Galaxies appear as faint smudges at best.

Does it need batteries or a power supply?

The computerized mount needs power to track and slew. Check whether it runs on batteries or an adapter, and bring spares for long sessions.

Do I have to align the optics?

No. Refractors hold collimation well, so you mainly align the GoTo mount, not the lens.

How does it compare with a larger beginner scope?

A 90mm to 130mm scope shows more detail and light, but weighs more and costs more. This one wins on portability and simplicity.

What comes in the box?

Typically the optical tube, GoTo mount and tripod, a hand controller, one or two eyepieces and a finder. Confirm the exact bundle before buying.

Where is the 70mm Automatic Telescope cheapest?

At Stemcell Science Shop, for $150.00, as of our latest check.

70mm Automatic Telescope

Best price now

$150.00at Stemcell Science ShopChecked Nov 8

Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit Stemcell Science Shop

70mm Automatic Telescope

Best price now

$150.00at Stemcell Science ShopChecked Nov 8

Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit Stemcell Science Shop

Ask our agent about this product

It checks today's price at every store, compares the alternatives and answers in about a minute.

Price facts

Last seen at $150.00 at Stemcell Science Shop on Nov 8.

Our take on the 70mm Automatic Telescope

This is a small computerized refractor aimed at first-time stargazers. The 70mm aperture gathers enough light for the Moon, planets and brighter deep-sky objects, and the GoTo mount points the scope at targets for you instead of making you hunt by hand. It is easy to carry and quick to set up, but the small aperture and modest optics limit fine planetary detail and faint galaxies. Compared with larger 90mm to 130mm beginner scopes, it trades light grasp for portability and simple alignment.

Best forFirst-time telescope ownersCity and suburban backyardsKids and family viewingGrab-and-go Moon and planet sessions

Pros

Computerized GoTo mount finds targets for you
Light and easy to move outside
Refractor optics need no collimation
Good for the Moon, planets and bright clusters
Simple enough for a beginner to learn on

Cons

70mm aperture struggles with faint deep-sky objects
Small finder and basic eyepieces limit the view
GoTo alignment takes practice and a power source
Tripod can feel shaky at high magnification
Planetary detail is modest next to larger scopes

70mm Automatic Telescope prices at every store

Stemcell Science ShopNew
In stock
$150.00Checked Nov 8
Visit Stemcell Science Shop

70mm Automatic Telescope price history

Lowest price we've seen: $150.00 on Nov 8 at Stemcell Science Shop. Tracked across 1 store since Nov 8.

What reviewers say

Owners of small GoTo refractors like this generally call them a friendly first step, praising the automatic targeting and light weight. Many note that the small aperture and basic accessories cap what you can see, and some find the mount and tripod the weak point.

What people mention

GoTo mountPraisedOwners say the computerized handset finds targets fast once aligned.
ApertureCriticisedReviewers note 70mm shows little of faint galaxies and nebulae.
PortabilityPraisedUsers like that the whole scope moves outside in one trip.
Tripod stabilityCriticisedSome find the mount and tripod shaky at higher magnification.
SetupMixedBeginners call setup simple, but alignment takes practice and batteries.

Specifications

Type: Refractor
Computerized: Yes
Aperture: 70 mm
Magnification: 88 x magnification

Questions and answers

Is this a good first telescope?: Yes, if you want automatic target finding and easy portability. Expect good Moon and planet views, not faint deep-sky objects.
What can I see with a 70mm refractor?: The Moon, Jupiter and its moons, Saturn's rings, bright star clusters and a few bright nebulae. Galaxies appear as faint smudges at best.
Does it need batteries or a power supply?: The computerized mount needs power to track and slew. Check whether it runs on batteries or an adapter, and bring spares for long sessions.
Do I have to align the optics?: No. Refractors hold collimation well, so you mainly align the GoTo mount, not the lens.
How does it compare with a larger beginner scope?: A 90mm to 130mm scope shows more detail and light, but weighs more and costs more. This one wins on portability and simplicity.
What comes in the box?: Typically the optical tube, GoTo mount and tripod, a hand controller, one or two eyepieces and a finder. Confirm the exact bundle before buying.
Where is the 70mm Automatic Telescope cheapest?: At Stemcell Science Shop, for $150.00, as of our latest check.