A Maksutov Cassegrain telescope uses two mirrors and a front correcting lens to "fold" the light. The result is a long focal length telescope (ideal for high magnification) in an incredibly compact tube (only 11 inches long) that produces sharp, detailed images. It is ideal for detailed lunar and planetary observation at high magnification and for bright deep-sky objects at low magnification. Grades 7-12.

*Please note that free shipping offers do not apply to this item.

Product Details:

• 102mm primary mirror
• 1300mm focal length, f/12.7
• 12.6 sq. in. light grasp
• 241x maximum theoretical magnification
• Deluxe Plössl multi-coated 25mm 1.25" eyepiece provides very clear, sharp images at 52x magnification
• 1.25" internal focuser
• 90° mirror star diagonal for viewing comfort
• 6x26 correct-image finder scope with 6x magnification, 26mm aperture, fully coated optics, and a 7° field of view
• German EQ-2 equatorial mount features dual setting circles, slow-motion cables, oversized lock knobs, and a height-adjusting aluminum tripod with large accessory tray
• Ultra-compact 11"-long aluminum tube with enamel finish
• Includes a water-resistant, fully padded carrying case for the optical tube and accessories
• Includes easy-to-understand instructions for use and assembly
• Includes Starry Night Special Edition astronomy software for PC or Mac that provides access to 1 million star and deep space objects plus the SkyTheatre DVD which provides a 102 minute tour through our solar system ($69.90 value)
• Weighs 22 lbs
• One year warranty, Orion Telescopes model StarMax™ 102mm

Telescope Magnification:
Don't make the mistake of buying a telescope for the high magnification advertised. Many low-priced telescopes boast magnification of over 500x, which is totally unusable for three reasons.

• First, the theoretical magnification for any telescope is limited by aperture (primary lens or mirror) diameter. The maximum theoretical magnification is 120x for a 60mm telescope and 228x for a 114mm telescope.
• Second, atmospheric conditions limit magnification to 200-250x on the very best of nights even with very large telescopes.
• Third, the low quality optics on most inexpensive telescopes do not produce a clear, sharp image even at lower magnifications.

Most night sky observing is done in the range of 25x-150x. The Orion telescopes we offer have excellent optics at these magnification levels, even up to 250x, ensuring you will enjoy your night sky viewing.

More Information:

• Instruction Manual - StarMax 102mm Telescope (pdf)
• Telescopes & Accessories