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Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallThe Celestron AstroMaster 70AZ (model 21061) is a small, manual 70 mm refractor supplied with two eyepieces for 45x and 90x magnification. Celestron lists the Moon, planets and star clusters among its intended nighttime targets, but the mount has no motorized tracking: you point and follow objects by hand. It is best considered by first-time buyers who want a straightforward telescope and are comfortable learning manual aiming—not by anyone expecting automated tracking or a guaranteed view at the maximum listed magnification.
What the AstroMaster 70AZ is
Celestron identifies model 21061 as the AstroMaster 70AZ, a refractor with a 70 mm (2.76-inch) aperture, 900 mm (35-inch) focal length and f/13 focal ratio. The company lists fully coated optics and an aluminum optical tube. These are manufacturer specifications, not independent measurements. Celestron’s AstroMaster 70AZ specifications are the authoritative reference for the model.
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The long focal length relative to its aperture gives the supplied eyepieces useful magnification for lunar and planetary viewing, but magnification alone does not determine how much detail you will see. The telescope’s 70 mm aperture, observing conditions, target and steadiness of the setup all matter; the manufacturer’s maximum figure should not be read as a promise of a sharp view in every circumstance.
What comes in the base model 21061 kit
Celestron’s base product listing includes the optical tube, adjustable tripod and mount, StarPointer red-dot finder, erect-image 1.25-inch diagonal, 20 mm and 10 mm eyepieces, and a manual. The page also lists Starry Night Basic and SkyPortal software. The quick setup guide shows an accessory tray and lens cloth in its kit list as well. Packages can vary by revision or market, so check the seller’s listing for the exact contents before buying. Celestron’s 21061 quick setup guide provides another official kit list.
#1 Best Overall
- POWERFUL TELESCOPE FOR BEGINNERS: The AstroMaster 70AZ is the perfect entry-level telescope for adults and kids eager to explore the night sky. You get bright, clear views and simple, intuitive operation.
- HIGH-QUALITY 70MM OPTICS: Enjoy crisp, detailed views through the fully coated 70mm (2.8") achromatic refractor — perfect for observing the Moon, planets, bright star clusters, and even terrestrial landmarks.
- VERSATILE DAY & NIGHT USE: Designed for both astronomical and land-based viewing, the AstroMaster 70AZ lets you explore the stars at night and enjoy daytime views of wildlife or distant landmarks.
- EASY-TO-USE ALT-AZIMUTH MOUNT: Smoothly navigate the sky with a manual alt-azimuth mount and easy-to-use panhandle, which lets you point the telescope up, down, and side to side with precision.
- QUICK SETUP: With just a few key parts to assemble, you can go from box to backyard in minutes—no tools required. The sturdy, adjustable tripod provides stable, comfortable viewing tailored to your height, perfect for adults or kids, standing or seated.
The phone-adapter bundle is a separate variant, not something to assume is included with every 70AZ. Celestron says the adapter in that bundle connects a smartphone to an eyepiece with a 34 mm outside diameter. That describes the accessory, not the photo quality you can expect. See Celestron’s separate AstroMaster 70AZ phone-adapter bundle if phone mounting is important to you.
Magnification and observing expectations
Celestron specifies the supplied 20 mm eyepiece at 45x and the 10 mm eyepiece at 90x. The same product page gives a useful magnification range of 10x to 165x and labels 165x the “Highest Useful Magnification.” Celestron also says the 70AZ provides views of the Moon, planets and star clusters. These are manufacturer descriptions and specifications, not results from independent testing. The base-kit listing says a Barlow lens is not included.
Rank #2
- TELESCOPE FOR BEGINNERS: The AstroMaster LT 70AZ is the perfect entry-level telescope for adults and kids eager to explore the night sky. You get bright, clear views and simple, intuitive operation.
- HIGH-QUALITY 70MM OPTICS: Enjoy crisp, detailed views through the fully coated 70mm (2.8") achromatic refractor — perfect for observing the Moon, planets, bright star clusters, and even terrestrial landmarks.
- VERSATILE DAY & NIGHT USE: Designed for both astronomical and land-based viewing, the AstroMaster LT 70AZ lets you explore the stars at night and enjoy daytime views of wildlife or distant landmarks.
- EASY-TO-USE ALT-AZIMUTH MOUNT: Smoothly navigate the sky with a manual alt-azimuth mount and easy-to-use panhandle, which lets you point the telescope up, down, and side to side with precision.
- QUICK SETUP: With just a few key parts to assemble, you can go from box to backyard in minutes—no tools required. The sturdy, adjustable tripod provides stable, comfortable viewing tailored to your height, perfect for adults or kids, standing or seated.
For a beginner, the practical starting point is the 45x eyepiece: its lower magnification makes it easier to find a target and keeps more of the sky in view. Once an object is centered and the view is steady, the 90x eyepiece offers a closer view. Celestron’s 165x figure is a stated upper specification, not a guarantee that objects will look clear at that power; conditions and the limitations of a 70 mm aperture affect what is visible.
The mount is manual, not a tracking system
The AstroMaster 70AZ uses a manual alt-azimuth mount. Celestron describes moving it up and down and left and right with a panning handle and clutch. There is no motorized or computerized tracking, so you locate an object and keep it in view by adjusting the telescope yourself as it drifts across the field. That hands-on approach avoids relying on an automated system, but it also means aiming and following are part of using the telescope.
Rank #3
- Professional Astronomical Refractor Telescope: If you are interested in astronomy or like to explore the night sky, the MEEZAA astronomical telescope is for you. A telescope for adults astronomy beginners to explore nature and the universe
- 90mm Large Aperture: The astronomy telescope has an 800mm(f/8.88) focal length and 90mm aperture. The 90mm aperture captures more light pictures, fully multi-coated optical glass lenses with high transmission coating improve image brightness and clarity
- Optimum Magnification (32X-240X): Our telescope for adults high powered is equipped with two eyepieces(10 mm and 25 mm) and a 3X Barlow lens. The 3X Barlow lens triples the magnification of each eyepiece, allowing us to observe unprecedented lunar details
- Convenient Accessories: Includes an adjustable stainless steel tripod (28 to 46 inches) for flexible viewing. All accessories fit neatly into the carry bag. Use the phone adapter to capture photos and videos, sharing moments for backyard astronomy, camping nights, and outdoor star parties
- Quick Setup, Big Discoveries: With a detailed paper manual, 90% of users assemble in 10 minutes. MEEZAA telescopes are trusted by thousands for learning astronomy, exploring nature, and creating unforgettable moments under the stars
Weight and setup considerations
Celestron lists the complete kit at 10.8 lb (4.9 kg), with the tripod and mount accounting for 7.9 lb (3.6 kg). Those figures are manufacturer specifications. The total weight gives a useful sense of what must be carried, while the tripod-and-mount figure helps distinguish the support hardware from the complete assembled kit. Check the included package and its stated contents if portability is a deciding factor.
Who should consider it—and what to check first
The model is a reasonable candidate for a first telescope if you want a refractor with two included eyepieces, a finder and a manual mount, and your main interest is casual nighttime viewing of targets Celestron names. Before choosing it, compare the factors that will shape your experience rather than relying on a maximum-magnification number:
Rank #4
- POWERFUL TELESCOPE FOR ASTRONOMY BEGINNERS: The AstroMaster 130EQ delivers sharp optics, a stable equatorial mount, and smooth manual controls, making it the top choice for beginners ready to explore the night sky.
- HIGH-QUALITY 130MM OPTICS: Enjoy views through the 130mm (5”) Newtonian reflector, which features high-quality aluminum and SiO₂ coatings and enough light-gathering ability to view all the best celestial objects.
- SMOOTH, ACCURATE POINTING: Effortlessly aim and center your target using the two slow-motion control knobs for right ascension and declination whether you’re observing planets or deep-sky objects.
- QUICK SETUP: With just a few key parts to assemble, you can go from box to backyard in minutes—no tools required. The sturdy, adjustable tripod provides stable, comfortable viewing tailored to your height, perfect for adults or kids, standing or seated.
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: 20mm eyepiece with built-in erect image corrector, 10mm eyepiece, and a StarPointer red dot finderscope. You'll also receive a FREE download of one of the top-rated astronomy software programs.
- Optical design and aperture: This is a 70 mm refractor with a 900 mm focal length.
- Supplied views: The listed eyepieces provide 45x and 90x magnification.
- Aiming: The alt-azimuth mount is moved by hand; it does not track automatically.
- Package: Confirm that the seller is offering model 21061 and check which accessories are actually in that package.
- Price: Compare current local listings for the same model and kit; no single current price is established here.
- Targets: Celestron names the Moon, planets and star clusters. The stated 165x upper figure is not a guarantee of performance under every sky.
The included diagonal and eyepieces use the 1.25-inch format identified in Celestron’s specifications. If considering other eyepieces, verify compatibility before purchasing; the available information does not establish that a particular third-party eyepiece will improve the view.
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1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsSolar viewing warning
Never look directly at the Sun with the naked eye or with an optic (unless you have the proper solar filter). Permanent and irreversible eye damage may result. Celestron also warns against projecting an image of the Sun onto a surface because internal heat can damage the telescope and attached accessories. Do not attempt solar viewing without an appropriate solar filter. Read Celestron’s full safety warning.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- BRIGHT, SHARP VIEWS ANYWHERE: Unlike many beginner telescopes, this quality refractor features fully coated glass lenses and a 70mm aperture for crisp, clear views of the Moon, planets, and daytime scenery—all in a lightweight, travel-ready design.
- PERFECT FIRST TELESCOPE FOR BEGINNERS: Designed for adults and kids to enjoy together, this beginner-friendly telescope sets up in minutes and delivers rewarding views with no prior experience required.
- EASY NO-TOOL SETUP: No complicated assembly or tools needed. The full-height tripod and telescope tube set up in seconds and pack neatly into the included backpack—so you’re always ready to observe on the go.
- DUAL EYEPIECES FOR VERSATILE VIEWS: Includes 20mm and 10mm eyepieces for wide and close-up views of celestial and terrestrial targets. Spot craters on the Moon at night or wildlife during the day.
- BONUS BACKPACK AND SOFTWARE: Includes a padded backpack with room for accessories, a finderscope, star diagonal, eyepieces, and a free download of Starry Night software to help you identify celestial objects and plan your next stargazing session.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
