Since 1964, Celestron has been a trusted brand for many backyard stargazers. From telescopes to accessories, they have every area covered. Are you looking for a beginner friendly scope? Something more advanced? Celestron is there to help. For those in the market for the perfect telescope to get started, the PowerSeeker 80EQ is an excellent choice. The simple layout and design are points worth mentioning. Novices can use the scope to the full extent. Say goodbye to unfocused images. Collimating each lens is as simple as turning a dial. The optical ability is decent, displaying most astronomical objects. Another bonus is the accessories that come with the scope. The mount is compatible with various camera designs and sizes. An ideal feature for those interested in astrophotography. The tripod provides a solid base and foundation for viewing. The clarity, price, and simplicity make the Celestron PowerSeeker 80EQ telescope stand out from other brands and models.
Pros
The Celestron PowerSeeker 80EQ is a good choice for any novice. As a starting scope, features are tailored towards teaching viewers about the basics of stargazing. The biggest issue with many scopes is the process of collimation. Numerous dials and knobs make collimating each lens nearly impossible. Focusing the PowerSeeker 80EQ could not be easier. Simply turn the dial until both images come into focus. The size and portability of any scope is another important element. Three words come to mind; small, compact, and lightweight. As a result, the PowerSeeker 80EQ faces no limitations regarding viewing sites. Everything fits neatly into one bag. A lightweight model means you can see the night sky from multiple locations. Another crucial feature of any scope is ease of use. Some telescopes bombard their users with advanced features. In turn, this only makes the operation of the device more difficult than need be. The simple design of the PowerSeeker 80EQ does not have this issue. The easy to use features allows beginners to use the scope right out of the box. No research or preplanning required. The PowerSeeker 80EQ requires no external power source. Stargazers can maximize their viewing sessions without needing to replace batteries.
Cons
The optics of the PowerSeeker 80EQ “do the trick” for basic stargazing. However, the overall power is somewhat limited. The two provided eyepieces only reach a maximum magnification of x45 and x225. Do not expect to see the detail on smaller celestial objects. Buying additional eyepieces is a must for those wanting to see more detail. Although not necessary, a tracker would be helpful for many reasons. Areas with high amounts of light pollution make stargazing very difficult. Dimly lit objects become nearly impossible to see. Ambient light also limits our eye’s ability to adapt to the dark. A tracker allows one to locate objects despite this excess light. A motorized tracker also helps beginners correctly identify specific planets and stars. While other brands include additional information, the PowerSeeker 80EQ does not. Purchasing a field guide is highly recommended. The mount and tripod serve their purpose but are not anything special. The mount is unable to support heavier cameras. Despite the tripod providing a sturdy base, it is shorter than standard models. Many parts, including the eyepieces, are made from plastic. Parts will have to be replaced more frequently than accessories made from more durable materials.
Key Features
- Size/Weight – Small and compact. Easily thrown into a bag. The lightweight frame allows viewing sessions at multiple locations.
- Astrophotography – The included mount is compatible with many camera models.
- Price – Affordable. Moderately priced.
- Easy Setup – Collimation is very quick. Just a few simple turns and you’re ready to go. Just make sure each image comes into focus.
- Simple Design – Great for beginners. The scope utilizes simple mechanics and features. There is no use of overly complicated components.
- Optics – Decent visuals. Celestial objects are clear and in focus.
- No A/C Source – Does not require an external power source. Viewing sites are not limited to the backyard.
Main Issues
- Tripod – Somewhat short and flimsy. Not the highest quality.
- Mount – Mount not very sturdy. Cannot support the weight of heavier cameras.
- Limited Optics – Included eyepieces provide a magnification of x45 and x225. Those interested in more power must purchase additional lenses.
- Plastic – Many parts consist of plastic.
- Basic Features – Lack of tracker. A beneficial tool for beginners.
- Lack of Info – Does not include additional information. Field guides or star charts must be purchased separately.
Conclusion
Novices in search for a telescope should consider the Celestron PowerSeeker 80EQ. Let’s start with the pros. The overall design is simple and easy to use. This simplicity allows the scope to function as a useful learning tool. Other telescopes typically offer various features that are difficult for beginners to understand. These elements, in the end, are more of an obstacle than beneficial. Instead, the design of the PowerSeeker 80EQ efficiently teaches viewers the basics of stargazing. Another selling point is the compatibility for astrophotography. Those interested in taking pictures of the stars and planets will want to look into the PowerSeeker 80EQ. The provided mount fits most camera models. The weight and size are both worth mentioning. As a lightweight and compact scope, one can use the PowerSeeker 80EQ at various locations. Everything fits into a single bag, and the weight is no issue for remote spots. The PowerSeeker 80EQ is pretty average regarding price.
Now onto the cons. The PowerSeeker 80EQ does have obvious limitations in some areas. First things first, the visuals. In short, the optics are decent. However, two main issues exist. While the magnification displays most objects, do not expect much detail. Those interested in more optical power will need to buy additional lenses. The other problem is a lack of tracker. Beginners often underestimate how vast the universe is. Many have no idea what to look for or how to correctly identify objects. Trackers make the process of locating celestial objects easier. Aside from the instruction manual, no helpful information on stars or planets comes included. Investing in a field guide or something of the sort comes highly recommended.
While the Celestron PowerSeeker 80EQ telescope has some shortcomings, the overall features are ideal for beginners and those alike. The PowerSeeker 80EQ provides an immense amount of value to novices and beginners. Veterans, on the other hand, do not. More experienced stargazers will want to look for a scope that offers greater optics and more advanced features. The 80EQ also has a shorter lifespan than larger, more advanced scopes. As a beginner model, the specs and limited optics will eventually need upgrading. Anyone looking for an easy to use a telescope with decent visuals should consider the PowerSeeker 80EQ. Just keep in mind the shorter lifespan and additional purchases necessary to utilize the scope to its full potential.