In Depth Review - Celestron Omni AZ 102mm Refractor Telescope

This video is an in depth review of the Celestron Omni AZ 102mm Refractor.
NOTE: It appears that this scope has been rebranded the "Celestron StarSense 102 DX", which includes push-to-go-to capabilities.
In this video, we'll unbox the telescope, assemble it, align the finder, and then use pro cameras to simulate what the human eye would see through the eyepiece.
110 Things to See with a Telescope:
www.amazon.com...
50 Things to See with a Telescope - Kids:
www.amazon.com...
50 Things to See on the Moon:
www.amazon.com...

[@LearnToStargaze]

Hello Stargazers! We're excited to announce that we're now on Patreon! Follow us for behind-the-scenes footage from LearnToStargaze and updates on the development of our stargazing retreat, "Stargaze Nova Scotia." www.patreon.com/LearnToStargaze

[@user-zc3bp5zn3g]

Hooray!

[@glennnorwood21]

I’d l Iike to start by saying that I love your channel! I’m a little late getting into the world of astronomy.. as I just turned 54 years of age last month. I had been researching scopes, looking for “the best” overall instrument for my needs. This review helped me make up my mind.. I found a brand new Omni 102 for just under $300USD.. and I ordered a copy of your book as well!! Thanks for everything you do.. I’ll be following you, looking for advice and pointers as I begin the journey into this hobby.

[@LearnToStargaze]

@@glennnorwood21 Happy Birthday and congrats on the new telescope!

[@OMKARMANE19]

What is the mount and camera you used to take photos of star clusters ?

[@LearnToStargaze]

@@OMKARMANE19 EQ6R-pro mount. 294MCpro camera

[@B3NNYO4383]

Awesome review thanks to your great review and your obvious in depth knowledge I felt 110% comfortable purchasing this at Costco yesterday. This is my first telescope and look forward to more videos.

[@tridoshic1688]

This telescope actually came with an allen wrench that's actually in the mount arm

[@ElliotVillarrealII]

I’ll admit it took me 10mins too long to locate it. Very nice storage space for it, but terrible instructions provided on where to find it. I had a good chuckle all in all.

[@hypertrial2917]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/maG0e6yqiJWqj6s

[@noahmeme2]

Don't you mean alien wrench 👽

[@hvodinh]

@@noahmeme2 No, the alien wrench is the one that he would see the alien (the one he is spying through the telescope) holding, and alien is probably coming straight at him, wielding said wrench ;-)

[@michaelmcintosh9378]

Gotta read the instructions lol

[@LuisLopez-rb3rw]

Thank you for the review, just bought it from my local Costco. I haven’t been able to use it due to weather issues, but I’m looking forward for better weather and be able to get a great view of the moon.

[@carmenmartinez5936]

I love this telescope. had been looking for one for my future son in law for christmas and every place was sold out. In Costco on Christmas Eve and up in the front of the line was this gem. Just learning how to use it and now they moved out so think its time to get my own. Thanks for the video. alot of useful information.

[@JSATI]

I originally planned to pick this scope up for my kids. Checked online and in store at Costco earlier this year. I was unable to find it. I ended up settling for the Orion Starblast 4.5 for the kids. Over the weekend I was out and about decided to stop at Costco. Lo and behold Costco in Indiana had this scope on display and I ended up buying one as well $220.00 US on 12/15/23.

[@LearnToStargaze]

Nice find!

[@AlaskaJiuJitsu]

Great video, walked by this model in Costco today and Googled reveiws. I purchased this because of this video!! Alao in Alaska so saving a ton on shipping regardless, only 200$ USD.

[@LearnToStargaze]

Awesome! I need to come up with a reward program for folks who bought this telescope and see all the items in 110 Things To See with a Telescope.

[@Alan-zi2rs]

Good tps on the red dot finder

[@Hal9000_RD]

Possiedo questo telescopio dal 2018. Nel tempo ho apportato degli aggiornamenti : - Focheggiatore TS Monorail 96; - Anelli e barra vixen più lunga; - Diagonale a specchi di qualità - Mirino ottico - Set di oculari di qualità (ES), ma trovo ottimi anche gli economici oculari Celestron Ploss serie Omni (4-9-12-15-32mm e Barlow 2x) - Treppiede EQ5; - Montatura SW EQ5 e SW AZ5 Con queste modifiche fatte nel tempo il telescopio va benissimo. Oltre a questo ho anche un SW Mak127, eccezionale per la Luna e pianeti, ma il Celestron AZ 102 Omni é fantastico per le stelle e la nitidezza delle immagini. Anche se prenderò un rifrattore APO 130 o C9, il piccolo Acromatico Az 102 rimarrà sempre con me.

[@bowrudder899]

John, I have your Messier and moon books and love them

[@LearnToStargaze]

Fantastic!

[@Mrcloc]

5:26 RTFM :D If this comes to South Africa for $200, it will become my imaging scope for sure! What a find!

[@LearnToStargaze]

Not great for actual imaging (I’d you zoom in the stars are a bit bloated), but my attempt turned out better than expected.

[@Mrcloc]

@@LearnToStargaze I see that it also has a little astigmatism there. Still, excellent find for the price.

[@devinespinoza9213]

Wow this video was amazing, I really enjoy it

[@santosvision]

My neighbor is selling his Celestron Omni XTL 150 with the CG4 mount for $350. Do you think this is a good buy? it's my first telescope to get into the hobby and since I have a mirrorless Sony Alpha 7rII camera, the 150mm aperture caught my attention to use it for astrophotography Do you think I should buy it? or which one would you guys recommend in that price range?

[@LearnToStargaze]

No. That would be stressful for many reasons. Newtonians are complicated for astrophotography, and the mount doesn’t seem to be able to connect to an autoguider which is required to take photos. Be sure to specify which hobby you’re talking about though, that is a stargazing telescope, which is quite different from those used in the very different hobby of astrophotography.

[@andrewmacgibbon4246]

Do you prefer this to the skywatcher 102 or should I save my money and get a reflector 200p.

[@LearnToStargaze]

If you have room and don’t mind carrying it, save for the large reflector.

[@Projectoxcart]

Nice Scope I have the 102 X 500 MM Sky-Watcher Star Travel Refractor Have tweeted this video hope it helps.

[@PhearaXT]

Where can I store telescope when I’m done using it?

[@LearnToStargaze]

I keep mine in the dining room, but sometimes my wife gets upset so I take them to the garage. I do like to leave my telescopes set up though.

[@jobrodie7514]

I've been trying for ages to get one, but no luck so far.

[@LearnToStargaze]

Sometimes you can get a used Starsense version of this telescope from B&H photo for about the same price.

[@jobrodie7514]

@@LearnToStargaze Thank you.

[@kevinjones8922]

They are back in stock at my Costco. @@jobrodie7514

[@Lemi_n]

Thank you so much for this video!! My husband and I just got this telescope for Christmas and we’re so excited to try it out but a bit intimidated. This video made me feel more confident, and seeing some samples of what we could see using it has made me even more excited to try it out!

[@LearnToStargaze]

Congrats on the new telescope!

[@chrislarson740]

Great review! Yes, I hope Mr. Scott Roberts listens, lol. He is a good man, with his finger on the pulse of the astronomy community. Also just a sidenote, a couple years ago I was looking for a beginner telescope. After much research, I settled on the HWB1 sky 130. It’s a great little scope, that I continue to use to this day! Cost is US$199, and I believe is manufactured and shipped through Celestron. Keep the videos coming, great job!

[@LearnToStargaze]

Thanks for the feedback! Yes, I hope I can talk Scott or someone into bringing back a four inch refractor with slow motion controls at a reasonable price.

[@hondaxl250k0]

I have a few of them “ hobby killer” scopes. With some simple upgrades. They are not bad for kids or the beginner astrophotographer .. throw out the stock tripod and go to good will and find a ok camera tripod. Huge difference.. then get some good eyepieces . And a cellphone camera. Even with a 50x 400 scope using 965 adapted to 1.25 I can get the Orion Nebula.. I’ve got pictures of andromeda using my great grandfathers 1950s Lafayette 60x800 refractor.. the scope is not the killer. It’s the mounts and eyepieces.

[@hmuphilly9129]

Not for beginners but once you get into the hobby, get a good solar filter for your scope (mine is 102 refractor also) make sure theres no holes or pinholes that light can shine through (flashlight test always) take a look at the sun and be WOWed the sun looks amazing after processesing and stacking. (I used an iphone, my profile pic is the sun lol). cheers and keep looking up folks.

[@stoutshakofor2refined962]

Folks at r/telescopes are just incapable of comprehending the possibility of there being a good budget telescope made by Celestron

[@DebTheDevastator]

I found a guy in the comments recommending the AZ 70 but stated they used this telescope. Did some reviews off reddit, and this was wonderful in reviews.

[@gerryroush8391]

I would run to get that one for less than 200 US dollarrs😮🔭

[@peacocksquirrel9665]

Thanks for the video. I had been agonizing over a refractor for long time, thinking I would get an 100ED APO OTA as my first scope . Thanks to your video, I decided to take the plunge with the XLT. Most Costco locations were sold out, but one had about 37 in stock!

[@TheHemiphil81]

If you are wanting a 100mm apo and don't want to spend that much on an Ota, apm makes a very very good 5 inch doublet archo that will amaze you in viewing and deep sky objects. I love mine.

[@keeplookingup911]

i always wanted to see how my beginners Telescope with perform with advance mounts. Today this video showed it. Great stuff 👍👍👍👍

[@frontyardastro6304]

Great Review! I bought this as a beginner telescope back in 11/2020 at Costco and you are right It was gone for a long time. I just exchanged the one I originally got because I stripped one of the screws and getting anything from Celestron is almost impossible right now. I had no problem buying it again today. This telescope really got me into the astrology and astrophotography. I now some better telescope but still use this one a lot. I’m pretty impressed with how you set it up on the equatorial mount. What Field flattener did you use? I have a SVbony 305 Pro camera and want to see what kind of images can get. Thanks for the review.

[@LearnToStargaze]

Hi! Thanks for the great comment! I used a Lightwave 0.8x focal reducer. Cheers!

[@kendemers8821]

Excellent review and I cannot agree with you more. I've owned many vintage sears telescopes 2 and 3 inch from the 60s and 70s. I also own a 12 inch Z12 Zhumell Reflector. I bought the Omni AZ 102 mm refractor on a whim at COSCO and I'm impressed with its performance. Last night I took it out on a 16 degree F night and enjoyed views of Sirius, RIgel and the Orion Nebula. You cannot beat this telescope for price, convenience, and performance. It's a great grab and go telescope and easy to learn and use for beginners. Thanks for the video.

[@trainman8065]

We got this telescope recently and it is very good we found it through your review and found it at Costco we only had it for a little while but we got a full moon picture and a star cluster as a new person to this hobby I rlly like it

[@samgiordano9995]

Just got this scope, really cool. Saw Jupiter and moons last night but still small with 10mm eyepiece. If I wanted a little larger more detailed view of planets would you recc buying the separate 5mm eyepiece or 2-3X Barlow or both? Kids most fascinated by planets right now, so trying to maximize planet appearance. What additional eyepiece or pieces would you recc, preferably just one for saving $.

[@LearnToStargaze]

A quality eyepiece like the Celestron X-Cel 5mm would perform better than Barlow, but a barlow would be cheaper.

[@ondoneson]

Just bought this thanks to your review! My first real scope. Thus far I've been using an 60mm hobby killer given to me by a neighbor. Also grabbed your book, '110 Things to See With a Telescope'. Dude I'm so stoked!! Enjoying your channel. Subscribed.

[@LearnToStargaze]

Thanks so much for the feedback on the channel! Enjoy the book!

[@DaveLaneNS]

This is another DAVE (Dave VIII). I just bought one of these scopes today and guess what? The price just dropped! There are now only $200 (instant rebate in store until Dec 26) and they had 5 or so left in Halifax CostCo.

[@Nottsboy24]

How are you finding the telescope!! here are some of my Astronomy video links....Celestron unboxing video kzbin.info/www/bejne/goGQoamGia1li7M Mercury transit kzbin.info/www/bejne/nF7Vg6SlmbJ2sJI planet Venus kzbin.info/www/bejne/eoSTfJeEq7uiZ6c planet Jupiter kzbin.info/www/bejne/q162paigf8-IbdU Solar eclipse kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y4vRZ56pbax0jKc

[@DaveLaneNS]

@@Nottsboy24 I have only really looked at Jupiter and Venus through a window from indoors. I have it installed on a small robotic telescope with a camera, but have not tested it there yet.

[@Nottsboy24]

@@DaveLaneNS ok no worries ☺

[@Kirasdad42]

Another awesome video!!! I adore my AZ-GTe 102mm that you recommended. This would be a great budget option for my friends who have been so impressed with mine. Thanks for sharing. Clear skies!

[@DavidMFChapman]

Where can I get a LTSG T shirt with the Moon 🌙 phases?!

[@LearnToStargaze]

My goal is to add merch when we hit 10,000 subscribers.

[@denniski10202]

What a great very detailed video. I just got one at Costco for US $150! I thought there was no way this was going to be a useful scope at this price but was willing to take a chance. Thanks for not only addressing the whats but also the whys of owning a telescope in your review.

[@LearnToStargaze]

Wow! Glad you found it!

[@BSummers91]

Just got my Omni 102AZ delivered today. Can't wait to put it together and start using it this weekend.

[@sixter4157]

On a recent trip to Costco I saw this telescope. I forget the price. I was tempted to throw it in my cart, but I dont have the room to expand my telescope collection right now.

[@jimstratford4577]

The same scope is on there starsense explorer 102dx. The staresense cost almost double.how ever It does come with the cell phone mount to turn it into a goto.

[@martinpolanco5681]

I have a question I saw an Omni XLT 120mm telescope for $299 is it worth getting or should I stick to Omni AZ 102

[@LearnToStargaze]

As long as you’re willing to accept the challenge of leaning how to use the equatorial mount on the 120, that would be a good option. I haven’t used that particular mount, so I can’t speak to how usable it is.

[@poppapockets6367]

So I've had this in the box for about 2 years broke it out yesterday used my phone and got a really nice picture...but to get a good camera would be dop

[@muhammadmq5387]

The Allen wrench is hidden in the mount!!! I had the exact same confusion and noticed the manual mentions it (after 30 minutes of frustration of course)!

[@SuperSizedMcChicken]

Awesome video. Was super intimidated with buying this as a first telescope, but your video helped me with all the questions i would have had. thanks

[@robertnadeau5560]

The allen wrench is in the tripod at the horizontal mount.

[@LearnToStargaze]

Yup. Noticed that just after I posted the video.

[@Cgconst1]

John, great review! These Alt-Az mounts have a small allen key in a hole that’s near the base of the mount arm just above the azimuth slip clutch. The key is for installing and tightening the the slow motion control rods as needed. I agree that this is good beginner rig. I recommend the Celestron StarSense telescopes with slow motion controls for under $500 U.S. for serious beginners who can afford it. Love your books!!!

[@LearnToStargaze]

Thanks!!

[@cadenmctaggart115]

Great video, thanks! If you look closely there’s actually a hidden Allan key attached to the telescope! Super cool

[@johnpinto8031]

Thank you for the tutorial. I picked this up from Costco a few months ago and just got around to putting it together. After viewing the moon and Jupiter I am hooked! Excited to learn more so look forward to more of your videos.

[@LearnToStargaze]

Wonderful!

[@fhs8860]

Yay! I got this from Costco in Dallas for $169. Quick question. What is that eye piece you are using with this telescope at 9:16 mark. what other eye pieces can we use with this telescope to increase the magnification. i would like to see a bit more detail of saturn. Thanks for your review. it was great.

[@LearnToStargaze]

Hi! This is a 26mm Plossl with a 2x Barlow. This is my favorite combination. It’s not super high magnification (I’m not really a fan of magnification) but it provides a great view.

[@Jimmyjjj333]

Costco in Canada has this telescope online for $299.99 right now.

[@LearnToStargaze]

Good to know!

[@ferrari28100]

I just got for Christmas celestrom starsense explorer 114lt there is difference between celestrom ommi az 102 mm for objects in space for quality

[@Nottsboy24]

Super cool 👌 i'm sure you are interested in Astronomy, if so here are some of my links....Celestron unboxing video kzbin.info/www/bejne/goGQoamGia1li7M Mercury transit kzbin.info/www/bejne/nF7Vg6SlmbJ2sJI planet Venus kzbin.info/www/bejne/eoSTfJeEq7uiZ6c planet Jupiter kzbin.info/www/bejne/q162paigf8-IbdU Solar eclipse kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y4vRZ56pbax0jKc

[@hvodinh]

Got one from Costco yesterday for $159. Last night, for first light, I saw Jupiter and the 4 moons. Very sharp, and I can make out the equatorial bands using the 10mm eyepiece. Makes me want to get a good 2x or 3x barlow. I'm wondering if a 3x barlow would be too much, even though with 3x you would still be under the 200x magnification.

[@LearnToStargaze]

That would probably work. A high quality eyepiece like the 5mm X-Cel (by celestron) would also go a long way to improving the view. You can also add a blue filter for extra detail on the surface of Jupiter.

[@adrianagflores5587]

I bought one for my husband for Christmas. We just used it tonight and we loved it .

[@cityofbrologna]

Thanks for the review! I was wondering if there is any significant difference in the focuser build / quality between the Omni 102AZ vs. the Starsense Explorer DX 102AZ that merits stepping up to the more expensive Starsense model? Other than that they look pretty much the same and having the phone app isn’t super important for me and seems like a good way to save $100.

[@LearnToStargaze]

I think they’re the same. The app really does a good job telling you which way to push the telescope, I’ve found it to be worth it.

[@gregkisinger9142]

Hi John, I just purchased this telescope at Costco and I'd appreciate some advice on what else to buy, especially since Celestron has free shipping on their accessories. I live on a lake so viewing wildlife will be fun and I'd like to view the moon and other possible space objects too. You mentioned a "2X Barlow", but is there anything else I should consider? Oh, and I'll buy your "110 Things To See...." book.

[@LearnToStargaze]

Hi! Best to get proficient using what comes with the scope, eventually the hobby will have you wanting for better eyepieces and larger apertures.

[@AmatureAstronomer]

I just bought a Celestron Omni XLT 120mm f/9.8. It is nice. Big, but nice.

[@LearnToStargaze]

I’ve always wanted to try that one!

[@PalmdaleGal]

I'm less than a beginner, but have begun research to buy something for my 10-yr-old great-grandnephew for Christmas. You kind of lost me at the point you interchanged mounts and attached the little camera to the end. That didn't tell me what the as-is telescope set can do...

[@LearnToStargaze]

Those short exposures are close to what you would see with this telescope with the human eye from dark skies.

[@flixwiththebricks4701]

Nice video! Only good review online. Why is it a good beginner scope? Im getting into the hobby but dont want to spend 200 usd only to outgrow this scope and spwnd 500-1000 in a year or two.

[@LearnToStargaze]

A good beginner scope, if you don’t want to dabble, would be an 8 inch donsonian (any brand) or, if you like “go-to” capabilities, a nexstar evolution, either 6, 8, or 9.25 inch depending on your budget.

[@platypaty5007]

I got it for Christmas it's bigger than it looks

[@Nottsboy24]

Super cool 👌 i'm sure you are interested in Astronomy, if so here are some of my links....Celestron unboxing video kzbin.info/www/bejne/goGQoamGia1li7M Mercury transit kzbin.info/www/bejne/nF7Vg6SlmbJ2sJI planet Venus kzbin.info/www/bejne/eoSTfJeEq7uiZ6c planet Jupiter kzbin.info/www/bejne/q162paigf8-IbdU Solar eclipse kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y4vRZ56pbax0jKc

[@ElliotVillarrealII]

Thanks for making this video. Still learning to use it after two try’s, ordered the Barlow scope accessory and start pro finder, they’ll come in tomorrow. I came up on this telescope because it was on clearance for $99.99. Feel better about this purchase now!

[@MrCharlieCheeseCake]

Great review, and very well timed as we bought this telescope last week (Costco Halifax), and it sounds like we had a lucky break since it doesn't seem to be readily available elsewhere. Is there a compatible Barlow lens you could recommend?

[@davidaaaa4611]

I have a black tube Celestron 102 that is longer than that one. It gives good views. But I am sure the AZ102 does also.

[@davidaaaa4611]

I have 7 Celestron telescopes. One I have had 24 years. I bought one of the first Nexstar 8's in 2000. A grey colored Nexstar.

[@HyperX07]

Sir I want to know few things. 1.How did you get rid of chromatic abberation while imaging ? 2.Did you used any filter for doing astrophotography with it ? 3.How did you get natural blue and orange star colours ? I hope you will answer my queries

[@LearnToStargaze]

Hi! I didn’t do anything specific for chromatic aberration. I probably used an L-Enhanse filter. I don’t recall doing anything to bring out the star colors, this is simply a color camera. (I filmed this a few years ago, so it’s not fresh in my mind).

[@HyperX07]

​@@LearnToStargaze ok sir

[@samuelgianni6073]

I know I'm a year late to this but I just got this scope too and it comes with a tiny little allen wrench hidden on the scope. Lol, absolutely great video though!

[@LearnToStargaze]

Thanks!

[@EinhanderPilotSantos]

I always wanted one and was lucky to get one for $50 at Costco on clearance! I'm so excited!

[@LearnToStargaze]

Wow!!!! That’s by far the lower price I’ve seen!

[@debraskeaton]

Thanks for this review. I bought this telescope in November 2022, but I saw it during the Christmas holidays in November-December 2023. I'd advise checking Costco again during the Holiday season this year--they sometimes carry items like this seasonally. I just unboxed mine today (April 6 2024), and I don't see a red dot through Finderscope. I changed the battery but I still didn't see a red dot anywhere. Am I missing something? Finally, I'm a real "telescope newbie," so some things that might be "given" to others might not be obvious to me.

[@LearnToStargaze]

Might worth upgrading to a better red dot finder. Some of the ones that come with the scopes can be pretty unreliable.

[@debraskeaton]

@@LearnToStargaze Good suggestion. It worked later on--after I'd already sent the comment above--but I may still upgrade. I suspect the wires weren't connecting to the battery and that moving the adjustment knobs made them work.

[@beej5671]

Please how does this telescope compare with the National Geographic Costco currently carries. Thank you.

[@LearnToStargaze]

Hello! I’m currently working on a comparison video (editing as fast as I can, but I shot hours of footage). In summary, the optics are identical, the mount on the Nat geo scope is better. The Nat Geo scope cannot be upgraded to two inch eyepieces (not sure if anyone actually does that anyway). The “StarApp” iPhone app is fun for kids, but cannot help you locate deep sky objects (in either telescope you have to do that the old fashioned way). Long story short it’s a great scope for the price. I think I slight improvement on the Omni.

[@brotherlove_wa9565]

if no one has found it yet, the Allen wrench is actually in the mounting harness. very small but if you read the instructions carefully you will locate it.

[@LearnToStargaze]

Instructions?

[@gee9089]

I have that same telescope that I purchased at Costco. 2 questions: 1. I have a budget of $500. What can I buy a mount + camera for that budget 2. I have a T2i DSLR, will that work for beginning space photography? What lens should I use? I live in a Bortle 6 area. P.S. I won’t be upgrading in the future nor will be using a reflector because I don’t like the process of collimation Thanks! (new subscriber here)

[@LearnToStargaze]

Hi! Typically you want to budget about $3000 for a bare bones setup that can take decent images of nebula. That said, the iEXOS-100 mount could hold that telescope, and that is often around $500. I bought my AVX mount for $450 or so used. I started with a T3i, and it worked fine for starting out. My biggest upgrade for astrophotography was the ASIair which controls and mount and camera, and removes the need for a computer in the loop. The next major upgrade is an astronomy camera like the 294MC pro.

[@gee9089]

thank you!

[@stevenbrown1134]

My mom got me this i feel really bad i lost the 2 lenses and the 90% piece can someone please telle where to get the correct replacement an exact not knock off😢

[@LearnToStargaze]

Amazon. There are Omni branded eyepieces. The 90 degree diagonals are pretty generic.

[@hornet224]

Good enough to be your only visual scope includes Starsense App 102mm Explorer DX with an optional Baader Hyperion 24mm 1.25" eyepiece. No brainer.

[@karlb8481]

Love this one! Super helpful for my cheap telescope search. This one would be perfect and you confirmed my thoughts. Thanks!

[@yeshumin2186]

Help, could you tell me how to shot as clear as your does, my phone can’t focus on the image I observed.

[@LearnToStargaze]

Try an app like Nightcap to give you better camera control.

[@Jonesy-dv3bj]

Did you find the Allen Wrench in the mount/slow motion controls? 🙂 It's in there.

[@LearnToStargaze]

Thanks!

[@scoutisabelle]

At 3:29 there's a flying saucer above the stop sign. 🛸

[@LearnToStargaze]

Is it technically flying if it’s connected with a coat hanger?

[@klttrll]

I got one and my up and down motion is very stiff, is there a way of fixing it?

[@LearnToStargaze]

WD40?

[@davidpiacenti2601]

The Allen Wrench is on the optical tube! :)

[@geraffe8763]

I saw you talking about the possibility of using a DSLR to be able to take the photos, instead of using mobile phone mount,, but I didn't see a follow through on that aspect. Can I use my DSLR(Nikon ), and do I need other optional attachments?

[@3dfxvoodoocards6]

12:05 - with a ES 102/1000 mm achromat I see the Orion Nebula in a blue color. Is that normal? 14:18 - I could not see the Horsehead Nebula, but I live in a 300.000 people city.

[@LearnToStargaze]

You to be on a mountaintop in Hawaii (or equally dark site)to the see the horse-head without a camera.

[@andyec-fp7cc]

i got an explore scientific firstlight achromat scope, 102mm x 1000mm, f9.8 for about 250 bux about a year ago, i think its 75 bux. more now, but absolutely worth it.... so alomg with the scope in this video, i highly recommemd the es ar1021000eq3 refractor telescope for a beginner who wants a solid scope they wont quickly. become bewildered with... a year later and im still learning new things with it.... the eq3 mount is great also...

[@itsonlyapapermoon61]

Idk what im looking at?😢 in my new az 102

[@ProProboscis]

Hello, Costco Canada has currently on special National Geographic 102 mm StarAPP Telescope, my sister asked me for help to determine if it is a good buy for amateurs. If you could review it, it would be great! Cheers.

[@LearnToStargaze]

I should! You know I’m honestly wondering if they watched my video a couple years ago about the “5 rules for a beginner telescope” and built this as a result.

[@LearnToStargaze]

Actually just ordered one based on this comment. I’ll test it out!

[@ProProboscis]

@@LearnToStargaze I'm looking forward to watching it. Thanks for your efforts ahead of time. ps: It seems that where she lives, ordering it costs 10$ more than if picked straight from the store's shelf.

[@alandyer910]

It’s not back! More’s the pity, but I think the scopes you saw for sale locally were a remaindered batch Costco Canada bought up. Chances are no one else will be able to find it. It’s not listed on Costco’s Canada website. That 102 Omni sold for $400 new but was discontinued 2 years ago I have it on good authority, as the new StarSense 102 is the same scope on the same mount but with the StarSense push to technology for $500 currently. I tested it - It works very well. But I agree, the other similar but cheaper refractors Celestron sells on repurposed camera tripods are not nearly as good. In fact, I wouldn’t recommend them at all, for the checklist reasons you outline. Cheers!

[@seymourmaupin6395]

Bought the telescope for 200 but watching this stereotypical Canadian is worth more then the price. Aye, you want some waffles and gravy?

[@a3j2leslie]

You will find the Allen key for the slow adjustment knobs slid into the mount. It is item 10 on your parts list. Look just in front of the left/right slow motion knob at the base of the mount arm in the tripod head.

[@GovindSingh-fl2to]

Costco (Brampton, Ontario)is selling this telescope at 149 CAD. They are going to discontinue it. Only few left there.

[@anthonyemmm]

Just picked one up from Costco on sale. $175 USD

[@LearnToStargaze]

Nice!

[@cannonball5515]

The question on how to zip tie it? I was thinking maybe duct tape? BTW I don't work in maintenance. Thanks for the video and clear skies everyone.

[@nickaltmann7951]

Where’s the hex key, you say? It’s actually hidden under the mount (included). Right on the other side of the slow motion knob.

[@schutztruppe]

is there a better tripod of this kind for this telescope? Like for example, I know there are different EQ tripods out there. This model is very nice in my opinion but a bit too light.

[@LearnToStargaze]

Sure, you could use this on an AZ-GTi, an Twilight I mount, a Celestron AVX, or an explore scientific iEXOS-100, anything with a vixen dovetail and enough capacity. They said, this is not an astrophotography scope, so I personally would not put it on an EQ mount (with the exception of what I did in this video).

[@duncling5471]

I picked this bad boy up at costco today, 2022/03/26 in Canada for 149.98. The 6 remaining they had were all marked down!

[@johnrobison1413]

I bought this at Costco here in the US for $200. My impressions about the scope has been a mixed bag, some good, some not so good. Item 1, the alt/az mount. Mine came locked up tight in altitude. Trying to contact Celestron for technical advice was impossible, left on hold for over one hour and then dropped and finally the ‘leave a call back phone number’ feature of their automated call center instead dropped my call. They did finally respond to a email. Adjusting the center nut on the fork did loosen the altitude but getting it set to just the right tension has been frustrating to say the least. The slow motion in altitude simply doesn’t work, no manner what adjustments I make on that nut. Item #2, the red dot finder is so mis-aligned that even with adjustments at full limits it isn’t possible to get it right. Celestron wants me to jump through so many complicated hoops for warranty service that their ‘warranty’ is essentially worthless! You are on your own. But, that said, I feel the scope was cheap enough that, with some work, I can get it operational. Oh yes, item #3, the attached dovetail is too short to adjust for balance if you plan to use the smart phone adapter. Sorry for the rant, but, well that is what my personal experience was.

[@raybbj]

Hi John. Video topic idea for you. I own the Omni AZ 102 also and I'm very confused on 1.25" vs. 2" options. It would be great if you could do a video on 1.25" vs. 2". Advantages and disadvantages. Since I own the Omni AZ 102, I'm trying to figure out if I should upgrade to 2" since the Omni can accept it, but I can't figure out the advantages and disadvantages and whether or not I should upgrade. Thanks!

[@LearnToStargaze]

That’s really just a question of budget, and personal preference. I’m finishing up a premium eyepiece video, and all the eyepieces are 1.25. Some, like the Hyperion series, fit both sizes. If there is a 2 inch eyepiece you allready really love, then it’s worth an upgrade. Otherwise, might be better to just get a premium eyepiece like the Baader Hyperion 24mm.

[@dragosmarinescu5520]

You can buy this off the shelf from a hipermarket ! This is great! Over here, on line purchase is the only way......

[@jimawhitaker]

I'm 60 been legally blind my whole life. I've also bought a few telescopes in the $300 range since about 1993. I'm thinking tech might be my friend now with computers and digital cameras. Can you recommend a "realitivily" inexpensive digital eyepiece to try? Thanks.

[@LearnToStargaze]

I can’t, but I know another legally blind astronomer who might be able to help: www.deepskyeye.com/our-story He may respond to your question if you contact him via his website.

[@fazergazer]

Should come with Alien wrenches. Just saying. That’d be out of this world :)

[@RevJosephWashburn]

I am really, really a newbie at astronomy. My wifebsays I havebtoo many hobbies, butbI figured at 56 it was time to add another. I had been looking at that telescope at Costco for the past month or so, and just couldn't pull the trigger. But your video changed that! Just picked it a couple of minutes ago...the last one they had! Your last criteria was, "Does it make people say, 'Wow'?" Well, I haven't even made it home, but when I saw they had marked it down to $99.99...I've been saying "WOW" ever sincebI put it in the cart! So looking forward to getting it assembled, calibrated, and put to the text. Now to order a couple of your books!

[@LearnToStargaze]

I can’t believe this is priced at $99 in some places! Celestron is using the same scope in different packaging for their Starsense line and charging about $500 now. It does really help to add a 25mm plossl eyepiece. Enjoy the new hobby!

[@alandavies803]

Hi. Im a beginner and new to your channel. Ive just purchased a Celestron Starsense 102dx. The telescope looks almost identical to the one you have purchased so glad you think its good for a beginner and impressed by what I should be able to see. Hopefully here in the UK, the clouds will clear soon and I can finally get out and use it.

[@shinyy187]

I just bought the same one just a couple weeks ago! I’ve only used it in a light-polluted town so far and I’ve seen Jupiter with four of its moons, Saturn, a double star, a fuzzy Orion nebula, and a very small hazy smudge as the Andromeda galaxy. I think that’s good for not being in dark skies. The Starsense 102 is my first telescope so I’m also not experienced at all. I can’t wait to get out in some dark skies. Let me know your thoughts on it once you get some viewing time with it

[@jongroubert4203]

The 102DX, and its brother, the 130DX are just about the best beginner scopes around. Yes, the optical tube on that scope and on this one are identical. You chose well!

[@alandavies803]

@@shinyy187 You are certainly doing better than I am so far. Well done. Will report back once I get some experience with it.

[@alandavies803]

@@jongroubert4203 Thanks Jon

[@edwardallen6175]

very nice scope.poor mount. i replaced with a good quality mount and very pleased with the view.

[@freeman10000]

Great video and great scope. But I have to be honest, I hate unboxing videos particularly for telescopes. My garage is filled will boxes from telescopes waiting for a bulk rubbish collection day.

[@Vic-pz5oh]

Got an ex display in UK for £135 including postage. 10mm and 2"to 1.25"adapter was missing.Tripod as others have said is the weak part. Suited much better for my st80.You will need a longer dovetail bar to reach balance with 2" eyepieces. 4" I think is a nice size to handle but have enough aperture to be useful. Have the f5 st. F9ed and now this f6.5 omni. Clear skies Vic.

[@FixitFox]

Thank you for making this video!! I bought this telescope from Costco as well. It was on sale for $40 off early December so I got it for $160 USD! What a great deal! This is my first telescope ever! A comment and a few questions: -The allen wrench you were looking for at 5:28 is in the tripod stand. That's what you get for throwing away the instructions at 2:29 😂 -I tried looking at Jupiter today with the 10mm eyepiece and I saw it and it's moons! But I couldn't see any of the details of its atmosphere and more importantly, it had blue and red light on the top and bottom of the planet. Is there a way to fix this issue with this telescope? I looked it up and it's called chromatic aberration. -What eyepiece did you use at the end of the video were you showed us all those amazing long exposure photos? What magnification were those done at? -What accessories and/or eyepieces would you recommend getting for this telescope for a better experience? Any specific brands or models?

[@LearnToStargaze]

Hi! Congrats on the telescope! I’m guessing the reason you didn’t see detail on Jupiter is the current seeing conditions. You can download an app called Astrospheric what tells you your sky quality. It’s also harder to see details when planets are close to the horizon. The chromatic aberration is a function of the fast focal ratio and doublet optics in the telescope (this telescope is designed for star cluster etc where the stars are dim enough where it’s not an issue), although you might try a plossl eyepiece and see if that helps. At the end of the video there is no eyepiece at all. There effectively is not really a “magnification” either, it’s technically called image scale or pixel scale (because I’m using a CMOS camera). The primary lens projects an image directly on the CCD of the camera. In this case you’re seeing about two or three degrees of sky. I am using a focal reducer on the camera, which takes the focal ratio down 0.8x.

[@FixitFox]

@@LearnToStargaze Thank you so much for the reply!

[@FixitFox]

@@LearnToStargaze Thank you thank you again! I looked at Jupiter earlier today when it was higher above the horizon and boy what a difference it made! I also downloaded the astropheric app. Clouds are good. Transparency is decent. But Seeing is not good at all. I can't wait for the best conditions to look at the sky with this! I also ordered a Televue Barlow lens and some filters. Exciting! Liked and subbed! I'll also order a 25mm Plossl eyepiece soon too. What brand would you recommend? Are the 10mm and 20mm that come with the telescope not Plossl?

[@LearnToStargaze]

@@FixitFox you’re most welcome! Televue are known to be the best, I have a Meade 26mm that I enjoy for about half the price. There are others but I haven’t tried them. Here is the Televue: www.amazon.com/Televue-25mm-Plossl-1-25-Eyepiece/dp/B0001GO16M/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?crid=2LOVS0W6BHJ37

[@DemonitizeThis]

@@LearnToStargaze I picked up this at Costco this week... reading through the comments where you say to pick up a barlow and plossl and wondering which barlow you suggest and do I need only one eye piece or should have another size as well? Thank you for the video and inspiration!!

[@arcane14598]

Just a heads up for anybody who might be interested, my wife found this on sale in our local costco for 149.97cad on jan 7th so an even better deal at that price.

[@Esoxfan]

How does this compare to StarSense explorerLT 80AZ & AstroMaster 130EQ. All about same price from Costco??

[@LearnToStargaze]

The Celestron Omni 102 is far superior to those telescopes. Here are the telescope watches for the other scopes: 130: telescopicwatch.com/celestron-astromaster-130eq-telescope-review/ 80Lt telescopicwatch.com/celestron-starsense-explorer-lt-80-az-review-partially-recommended/