When it comes to inexpensive binoculars suitable for astronomical viewing, there are few that work better than the Celestron SkyMaster Giant binoculars. These binoculars are designed with first-rate optics, and a number of convenient details that make them incredible viewing instruments at an extremely low price. Backed by a lifetime warranty and earning solid praise from multiple reviewers, it promises a breathtaking celestial (and terrestrial) viewing experience for even cash-strapped observers.
Specs
The SkyMaster Giant comes outfitted with specs that allow it to rival some telescopes. From multicoated optics to powerful light gathering abilities, its features distinguish it as an outstanding viewing instrument. Following are a few of its most important features:
• Diameter of objective lens: 70mm (2.75 in.)
• Optical coatings: Multi-coated
• Dimensions: 11in. X 4in. X 8.5in.
• Weight: 3.28 lb.
• Eye relief: 18mm
• Angular field of view: 4.4°
• Close focus: 43ft.
• Magnification: 15x
• Prisms: Bak-4
• Accessories: Tripod adapter, carrying case and strap
Review
The SkyMaster Giant is not your average set of binoculars. They don’t just give you a better view of the opera stage; they give you incredible views of the nighttime sky. Their optical capabilities make them powerful enough to easily see nebulae, galaxies (Andromeda, M81, M82, M44, M50, etc.), star clusters, and the moons around Jupiter. These views combine with the inherent convenience that smaller, lighter binoculars offer over heavier, less maneuverable telescopes. As a result, some reviewers report preferring the SkyMaster Giant over their telescopes, at least for casual, amateur observing.
The optical abilities that make such clear nighttime views possible include a 70mm objective lens that lets in significantly more light than its 50mm counterparts for clearer, more distant views. In addition to this light gathering ability, the SkyMaster Giant also boasts multicoated optics. This means that at least one lens is coated with a substance designed to prevent dispersal of the light as it passes through the lens. The result is a sharper, clearer image than would otherwise be possible. To further enhance the clarity of these images, the binoculars also come with Bak-4 prisms, which are some of the most effective prisms available for minimizing light dispersal. While one reviewer notes a slight amount of light distortion around the outer edge of images, virtually all reviewers praise the SkyMaster Giant for the clarity and sharpness of the views it provides.
Optical ability is not the only attractive feature of these binoculars, however. In addition to providing excellent views of the nighttime sky, the binoculars are designed for viewing comfort. By virtue of the fact that they are binoculars, they are already lighter and more portable than a telescope. However, they also come with an eye relief of 18mm. This eye relief is sufficient to make viewing comfortable even for people who wear glasses. In addition, they provide a wide (4.4º) field of view. Reviewers note that this field of view offers a satisfying range of site when using the binoculars, allowing them to see celestial objects all at once.
In fact, reviewers tend to compare the SkyMaster Giant favorably to far more expensive binoculars. In fact, when compared with such a pair side by side, the SkyMaster Giant is still reported to have held its own as far as clarity and field of view. This means that amateur astronomers can enjoy a convenient way to stargaze without spending the many hundreds of dollars required by more expensive binoculars.
Finally, these binoculars come with a tripod attachment. This means that you can easily set the binoculars up on the tripod of your choice. Doing so makes observing even easier: You no longer have to support the weight of the binoculars by yourself. Reviewers generally recommend getting a tripod to improve your comfort level when using the SkyMaster Giant, due to its weight. Terrestrial viewing is also possible (and powerful) with these binoculars.
Celestron stands behind the quality of these binoculars with a lifetime warranty. Combined with the binoculars’ powerful optics, sharp images, inexpensive price, solid reviews, convenient features, and tripod and terrestrial viewing capabilities, the SkyMaster Giant presents an appealing and high-quality way to enjoy the nighttime sky.