What is Reddit's opinion of
Zhumell Z130 Portable Altazimuth Reflector Telescope?
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Unfortunately my suggestion is to not buy from Amazon. Their prices are almost always more than from telescope/camera retailers and they aren’t are reputable as those retailers.
That being said, the Z130 is currently a good price on Amazon
But before you buy, make sure you read the pinned beginners buying guide “sticky” at the top of this page (top of the subreddit and in the about section of this subreddit).
I wouldn't rush for this.
I like looking at Jupiter for the moons. A good set of binocs would let you do that as well although I like seeing them in the scope. For a scope the real win was seeing saturns rings.
Seeing those moons and Saturns rings sorta snaps the sky into a qualitatively different thing for me. Like WOW i'm looking at big rocks and planets and things that are just floating up there.
After that jump -- I kinda feel like it takes a lot to get more out of a scope. Taking photos isn't my deal -> i'm lazy and can see MUCH better ones with a quick google search. Same with finding and viewing nebula/galaxies/etc.
So my recommendation is a 5"-10" dobsonian telescope when you find a good deal on one.
Unfortunately no. All scopes have gone up in price. The Zhumell Z130 is probably the most affordable decent scope on the market right now:
https://www.amazon.com/Zhumell-Portable-Altazimuth-Reflector-Telescope/dp/B07BRLSVWM
It was $199, now it's $299. But compared to other scopes, it's still reasonably affordable.
OP, this is the Zhumell Z130 that others are recommending:
https://www.amazon.com/Zhumell-Portable-Altazimuth-Reflector-Telescope/dp/B07BRLSVWM
It is going to be a SUBSTANTIALLY better overall viewing experience than the PowerSeeker 114EQ. $40 is the difference between a hobby killer scope and something that could foster real interest.
I do not recommend you get the Z114 even though it's cheaper and in your budget. While still better than the PowerSeeker 114EQ, the Z130 is a better scope and is totally worth the extra money.
The trouble with the PowerSeeker 114EQ is the wobbly, cumbersome EQ mount it sits on. Adjusting the focuser or even making light contact with your eye against the eyepiece will induce serious vibrations that take forever to dampen. Optically, it won't compete with a 130mm parabolic mirror. You will see more detail on Jupiter with the Z130.
The trouble with the Z114 is the focal ratio is too short for a beginner. At F/4, there will be very strong coma present, and only the exact center of the field of view will be acceptably sharp. The collimation tolerance at F/4 is fractions of millimeters. I would also make the argument that at the price point of the Z114, I would be skeptical they got an F/4 mirror to be a true parabola. The shorter the focal ratio, the harder it is to get an accurate parabolic shape.
Conversely, the Z130 is F/5, which doesn't sound like a big difference, but all errors decrease by the cube as focal ratio goes up. That means F/5 has 1/2 of the coma as F/4, and has double the collimation error tolerance, making it more forgiving to get good collimation when doing planetary observing. The mirror is also more likely (but not guaranteed) to accurately figured since F/5 has a shallower curve than F/4.
Spend the $200 on the Z130. It's absolutely worth it.
It’s on sale on Amazon right now for its original price of $200 just got mine today, it’s excellent
Zhumell Z130 Portable Altazimuth Reflector Telescope https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BRLSVWM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_Z2QSQT8NG14JPC06K7JF?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I bought my Zhumell z130 a few days ago from amazon. You probably can't find it because it is out of stock. I have noticed it going in and out of stock often. I managed to get mine with like 5 day free delivery with no back order or anything. I love this scope! Managed to see Saturn, Jupiter and it's moons and Mars and it's moon. That is all with the stock eyepieces. I have ordered an Astromania 4.5mm eyepiece so it should get even better. And yea, the fact that it is closed tube helps out a lot. Tho not as compact you don't need a light shroud, and there is no wobbly focuser. Only thing I dislike is the stock eyepieces. They don't have much eye relief, but still do an amazing job.
Edit: Here's the link for z130 on amazon
Just keep on checking it, sometimes it's in stock.
Clear skies!
I was planning on getting a Powerseeker 127 as well, but then I saw r/dontbuyapowerseeker . I have ordered a Zhumell z130 from amazon. It's a little bit more than the 127, at $200 but I think it's the best choice you can make. It is currently in stock, relatively quick delivery and way more portable than the Powerseeker. Same goes for Heritage 130p, tho you will have to make a light shroud for it , as well as put some plumbers tape on the focuser thread since it's wobbly. Hope I helped, have fun and clear skies!
Hello :-)
> under $200
There's not much discussion here;
The ones on triopd you've picked are on a weak mount (as telescopes are used with relatively high magnification, stability is key). A motor drive is nice in theory, but not on these weak mounts.
The Astromaster 114eq is a flawed bird-jones telescope with contrast issues. Avoid.
The Stablast is a classical reflector, but an extreme aperture ratio (contrast issues).
The Gskyer is a joke for that price. The short refractor can't be used for high magnification (chromatic aberration) and has a relatively small aperture.
Recommendation regarding your requirements (Amazon, <=$200).
5" shows quite a bit, less critical aperture ratio than the F/4 telescopes, sturdy but small rockerbox-mount.
Use on an inexpensive Ikea step-stool or similar, still MUCH better than any tripod set in this price-range.
> In the future I may upgrade to something like the AWB tabletop
The z130 is similar to the AWB.
Imaging is problematic with any scope in this price-range, though a bit of moon and planets is possible with almost any setup :-) What camera do you have?
Clear skies!
Would not make that purchase... You can buy this or something like it on amazon, new, for less. If you can spare the extra 50 or so look at the awb onesky/heritage 130p, or the zhumell z130
Zhumell Z130 Portable Altazimuth Reflector Telescope https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BRLSVWM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fab_TAPBFb6MJ3TV9
Edit: link just for ref
Amazon has the Zhumell back in stock;
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BRLSVWM/ref=twister_B07D8GJN6J?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
They also have the z114 (for $149) but if it's possible for you to get the z130, it will show more, has less contrast issues.
New, you could get a 6 inch dob for around $300. For the under $200 range I’d only be parroting schorhr, here’s a link (Amazon for simplicity) to what one of those looks like. The table tops require a table or a stool of sorts but are much less cumbersome, no tripod issues like the ones I had with the refractor
Zhumell Z130 Portable Altazimuth Reflector Telescope https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BRLSVWM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_VrVjFb3DZCVHT
If you can buy from Amazon, just buy the Zhumell Z130 instead:
https://www.amazon.com/Zhumell-Portable-Altazimuth-Reflector-Telescope/dp/B07BRLSVWM
Same optics, but better mechanics.
The focuser is a lot easier to use than the focuser on the AWB OneSky, and because the tube is a solid tube, the secondary mirror is shielded, so it will not dew up as quickly, and contrast will be higher.
Something small like a Zhumell 130 (https://www.amazon.com/Zhumell-Portable-Altazimuth-Reflector-Telescope/dp/B07BRLSVWM?th=1) or something similar would be good with kids. You'd have to help him out for most objects, but the moon and Jupiter would be easy enough to find on his own. You would also need to set it on the ground with a towel or on a stool for him to use comfortably. If it doesn't go anywhere like most hobbies for kids then you can always keep it for yourself or sell it.
Hello :-)
> $200
> upgrade
There's really just one telescope in this price-range that would be a significant upgrade:
The Zhumell z130.
https://www.amazon.com/-/de/dp/B07BRLSVWM
Or the collapsible AWB OneSky, Heritage 130p (<- more common in Europe, from €200) if you need something more compact.
These do not have a tripod, but are very sturdy table-tops. I use mine on an inexpensive Ikea step-stool. MUCH better than something like the 130EQ's mount (I've tried). A decent mount alone would cost $200-$300 for a 5" telescope.
> planets
It requires a decent planetary eyepiece (e.g. the 4mm 58° for $20-$40). But with that, it's quite capable compared to the 70mm refractors and other cheaper solutions.
> deep sky
The 5" (130mm) aperture can already show a lot!
Older post with what difference aperture makes.
> higher
If your budget is flexible, check out the Heritage 150p ($270-$290), Starblast 6 - Or the larger 6-inch dobsonians (which aren't table-tops, e.g. Sky-Watcher 6-inch, Apertura DT6, Orion XT6, ~$340).
You can find 6" or 8" dobsonians used for a good price once in a while.
Clear skies!
Sorry i forgot about the link.here it is
In this price-range, you will get a lot of rubbish.
Solution 1: Get a 114/900 telescope, (not a short 114/1000), discard the rubbish mount, and build a rockerbox.
Soultion 2: A skyscanner 100 or Zhumell z100. And a planetary eyepiece. Not ideal, but better than any of the telescopes in this price-range. Unless you can stretch your budget and get a...
Soloution 3: A Z114, or better a <strong>Zhumell z130</strong>. The later will outperform anything in this price-range. The 114/900 will perform about the same if you build a better mount.
> buy it for me and send it
Also check out https://www.teleskop-spezialisten.de/, German Tax gets deducted if you choose your country, e.g. a Heritage 130p costs ~160€ + 50€ shipping to Pk.
Sorry I mistook it for the 114/1000, but it's still not a good telescope.
Depends on your budget and where you're from.
If you're from the US; the set usually costs ~$170 or so.
For that you can almost get a Zhumell z130 (1/2), AWB OneSky or Heritage 130p, possibly a refurbished or used 6" dobsonian or at least the xt4.5 -> (Currently some available, usually sold out quickly: https://www.telescope.com/Fall-Red-Tag-Sale/Clearance-Telescopes/pc/468/81.uts?&refinementValueIds=4566).
The 130mm(5") are table-tops, but work well on an inexpensive Ikea (step-)stool as "tripod". Still MUCH more sturdy than a 4.5" or 5" on typical entry level mount (I've tried).
Telescopes with a F/4 aperture ratio have contrast issues (1, 2), and the Celestron kit mount and accessories ("Two high-quality Kellner eyepieces"<- One of the cheapest, simplest eyepieces you can buy). Ignore reviews on Amazon from overly enthusiastic beginners.
Hello :-)
Are you from the US? Offers differ slightly.
> didn't find anything relevant,
There's a sticky on what to buy ;-)
> daughter
Great! How old is she!
> (someone told me refractors are better to view planets with)
Not the ones you'll see on there. Especially the short ones are bad, and you need a good mount. In the end, aperture is key. A reflector's typically cheaper, so you can get - for example - a 6" reflector for the price of a mediocre 4" refractor.
Links on what to expect in different telescope aperture sizes.
> Amazon
Amazon has a LOT of rubbish, AVOID any of their best-sellers. The small short refractors on weak tripod show very little, the 127eq, 114eq, 130eq have a weak mount AND flawed optics.
> 200 range
AWB OneSky,
Heritage 130p,
Zhumell z130 1/2 (Stock is a bit of an issue at the moment.) --- Closed tube has contrast benefits, traditional focuser
These are by far better than the usual rubbish in this price-range. And rather portable (http://www.zudensternen.de/Teleskop%20Skywatcher%20Heritage%20Dobson%20130.html). The closed tube of the z130 has contrast benefits otherwise.
I use my 130p (despite owning a larger telescope) a lot.
An inexpensive Ikea step-stool works fine as "Tripod", is much more sturdy, and cheaper.
As any telescope, a good planetary eyepiece is in order (Sets with a lot of accessories are usually rubbish, overpriced!). A budget ($15) barlow can work but reduces the contrast.
Field simulation http://blog.pixelgiraffe.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/130-650-high_3.png
Magnification http://blog.pixelgiraffe.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/awb_Heritage_Magnifications_small.png
4mm 58° China / US (Don't get a short cheap Plössl or bad 4mm 62°).
Or on a tight budget, barlow. Won't be great but better than not getting anything for planets. 1/2 Screw on but cheap
Also, "Turn left at Orion" - the missing manual :-) And some binoculars can help when starting out, trying to find deep-sky objects.
Clear skies :-)
This Zhumell Z130 seems to be a great beginner scope. I’m considering one myself.
https://www.amazon.com/Zhumell-Portable-Altazimuth-Reflector-Telescope/dp/B07BRLSVWM?ref_=ast_sto_dp
For visual observing, the only really important specification to worry about is the telescope's aperture. The more aperture, the better. More aperture means more light the telescope collects and the more resolving power it will have. This translates to clearer views of planets, brighter stars and star clusters, and nebulae that don't get too dim when using appropriate magnification against them.
Never buy a telescope that advertises its capabilities in terms of magnification. Scopes that do that GROSSLY overstate their magnification limit.
Focal length is not something to worry about either, as any magnification you need to achieve can be done via a variety of eyepiece focal lengths.
The only thing to watch out for besides aperture is the quality of the telescope's design. Some Newtonian reflectors are "Bird-Jones" designs which use very low quality primary mirrors with a corrector lens in the focuser in an attempt to fix the flaws in the primary mirror. Namely the PowerSeeker 127EQ or AstroMaster 114 (and various similar scopes from Celestron).
> and does a telescope need to be expensive in order to be good
Not really, but you'd have to define "expensive" in this case. A good starting aperture for a beginner would be 5" to 6". The price for a decent quality scope in that aperture range is ~$350 - $480 (USD), which is as about as cheap as it gets these days. The pandemic and general inflation has really messed with the cost of things. Any lower than that and you're starting to get into "hobby killer" telescope territory.
All that being said, for viewing nebulae and galaxies, there's no substitute for dark skies. All the aperture in the world won't matter if you live under heavy light pollution. For planetary viewing, light pollution is not a problem and you still want as much aperture as you can muster, but for viewing deep sky objects, getting out into dark skies is important. So you will also want to factor in portability (though 5-6" telescopes are plenty portable. It's when you get into the 10" and above apertures you want to consider how easy it will be for you to get to dark skies with them).
My personal recommendations for getting started would be the Zhumell Z130 ($350) or Sky-Watcher 6" Classic ($480).
Hello I have been looking for an upgrade to my 70mm telescope, and after a few posts and research, I have narrowed it down to 2 options, the first one is the Zhumell Z130 for $349.99. My second option is the Orion SkyQuest XT6 for $429.99. I also want to purchase a pretty much life-long telescope, which would probably leave the XT6 as the best option right? I am interested in viewing the moon, the planets, nebulae, and just DSO'S in general, I'm not too interested in serious astrophotography since its pretty expensive, but I would sometimes like to take quick and simple pictures with my phone. In conclusion, based on my interests, which one would be the best telescope for me? Or is there another option that would be better? Does anyone have any experiences with these? Thanks you very very much for any help :)
Hello I have been looking to upgrade my 70mm telescope and I was considering the Sky-Watcher Heritage 150p Tabletop Dobsonian, but its on backorder all the way to December pretty much everywhere, so I started looking for other options, I found this one, Its 20mm smaller in aperture and 100mm shorter in focal length but it is an f/5 telescope like the Sky-Watcher, would this be a good telescope for planetary viewing and DSO'S like M42? Would you be able to see the different bands of Jupiter? The rings of Saturn? The only thing about this telescope is that it uses a tripod, my current telescope has a tripod and its pretty wobbly, I know that its not like this for every tripod out there, but I think that a tabletop telescope like this one would be better, in my opinion, and should be pretty much the same as it has the same focal ratio, aperture, and focal length, but like I mentioned earlier, would this be a good telescope for overall stargazing? Thank you
I bought it from Amazon last week, quite pricy 302 euro but I had a voucher so I got -33%.
​
It is still available on the French amazon for 307 euro, but now it depends on where you are.
For the exposed optics, I don't think it's a real issue, it's easy to craft a flexible shield. Here's a tutorial :https://youtu.be/8VMASGCLvp0
For the focuser, i can't tell for sure but they might be right. I have used the heritage (150p version), and eve though it's a bit hard to find the perfect focus, it isn't fundamentally harder to use. At high magnifications it's really had to find the focus anyway, unless having a so called dual speed (which I've never tried).
But if you're willing to spend a tad more you can get the best of both worlds https://www.amazon.co.uk/Zhumell-ZHUS003-1-Altazimuth-Reflector-Telescope/dp/B07BRLSVWM/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?crid=80U1ERBBX294&dchild=1&keywords=zhumell+z130&qid=1630939831&sprefix=Zhumell&sr=8-1
The only telescopes worthwhile in this price-range are the Heritage 130p and the Zhumell z130.
The later isn't as widely available (usually through Amazon and ~€230 usually).
The Heritage 130p - like all telescopes - wen't up in price due to the pandemic. It was under €200 but it's a bit more now :-(
The price now is pretty close to the larger Heritage 150p now :-/
(Also, a decent^(!) 4mm eyepiece, such as the 4mm 58° would be great for planets in these 130/650 telescopes.)
All cheaper telescopes are either smaller and show significantly less, or are on a horribly unstable tripod. Avoid Amazon best-sellers (Powerseeker, Astromaster) and the bad short refractors you see everywhere now.
If that's too much, there are some cheaper telescopes. But they will perform significantly less well for planets.
Links on what to expect in different telescope aperture sizes.
You're welcome!
I hope it wasn't too frustrating.
> as I don't want to be disappointed by my purchase.
That's a wise strategy.
There's a reason why you can find some €200+ telescopes used for under €50, as people get really frustrated by bad sets, and have them sit in the basement for years before just throwing them out...
> used
I can understand. And it's a bit of work to build a rockerbox for example.
> get the cool vibe of "looking at a giant planet", but rather something like the feeling of "looking at a blurry mess".
The planets may appear smaller than you expect. Even in larger telescopes, our atmosphere limits what's possible.
A 5"(130mm) telescope can magnify 160x, 180x, what is often possible with that limitation. Even though a 8"/10"(200mm/250mm) can magnify significantly more, this is limited to a couple of nights a year.
> gear
I know it's a lot of info :-) There are many things to consider (as in most hobbies, really).
Here is a free ebook on telescopes, but it's fairly technical. https://www.astroshop.eu/advice/telescope/telescope-knowledge/ebook-download/c,9154 - IF you are interested in the technical aspects, mechanics.
A good guide such "Turn left at Orion" is more focused on observing, less technical and a more fun read.
> 1.
The Heritage 130p comes with two basic but usable eyepieces.
Due to it's very short focal-length, a decent planetary eyepiece should be added. E.g. the 58° type (HR Planetary clones). They can sometimes be found for €20-€25, usually a bit more though. The EU stores that carry them usually sell them for twice as much.
A "Barlow" can work. There are some achromatic €20 barlows that aren't bad, but still will reduce the contrast overall.
http://blog.pixelgiraffe.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/130-650-high_3.png
http://blog.pixelgiraffe.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/barlowandstuff.png
> 2.
Amazon Germany at least lists the Zhumell z130 sometimes now. If it's close to the Heritage's price, it's closed construction has some benefits. Otherwise they will perform very similar. https://www.amazon.de/zhumell-zhus003-1-Z130-tragbar-Azimutal-Reflektor-Teleskop/dp/B07BRLSVWM/ (<€250 regularly, sometimes shady suppliers list it higher.)
The only better option is a telescope with a larger aperture, such as the Heritage 150p. Or the larger 6-inch dobsonians that are not table-tops anymore.
Stay clear of the cheap 150/1400 EQ (They, like the 127/1000 and 114/1000 short tubes, have a flawed bird-jones style corrector lens and a flawed spherical mirror.)
> 3.
Right now that's difficult. At the beginning of the year you could have gotten the 150p, shipped, for under €240.
Now, Teleskopy.pl is the cheapest.
I am hoping prices will normalize again.
I have bought my Heritage 130p via Teleskop-Spezialisten.de, which are a smaller but awesome shop. They even replace the collimation screws of the 130p with some better ones for free.
Sadly I can't predict how things will be later this year. It's very frustrating at the moment to recommend stuff due to skyrocketing prices and availability.
> 4.
> keep track
The transit time depends on the magnification, eyepiece's apparent field of view, and how high up the planets appear.
Example: http://blog.pixelgiraffe.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/transit-saturn-time12fps.gif
The benefit of an AltAz dobsonian mount is that they are sturdy and move smoothly.
An equatorial mount would be "better", but only if you get something like the NEQ3 (which costs more than a 5" telescope by itself). I've used the 130/650 on a Astro3, a bit better than the EQ2, but I wasn't happy with the overall stability.
> difficult
In many ways it's easier. Quicker to set up. More intuitive to move around. The focuser of a newtonian doesn't move to odd angles.
It's just that you have to "nudge" the telescope slightly to center the planets again. Even at 200x (and more in larger dobsonians) I don't find it difficult.
I had a 8-9 year old at an outreach event, who basically took over the entire evening, showing people Jupiter at 375x, aligning/tracking it for them.
> end of this year
If the situation allows again, see if you can find a local observatory or astronomy society where you can look through a few telescopes yourself maybe :-) Planet opposition is coming.
Or maybe you can find a relative who would give you a small loan? :-)
Are you just interested in planets, or also galaxies, nebulae?
Do you already have binoculars?
You can see the brightest moons of Jupiter in binoculars as dots, and there are a couple of deep-sky objects visible in binoculars. If the sky's dark enough.
Clear skies!
> There is also a “Used-Very Good” Z130 for $185. New ones, on amazon at least, seem to be $300.
New, it is $199 right now. (https://www.amazon.com/Zhumell-Portable-Altazimuth-Reflector-Telescope/dp/B07BRLSVWM)
One of the Warehouse-deals/used one at Amazon just seems to have damaged packaging but is in new condition otherwise, which could be worth a try, but the price difference isn't that big.
> Z114
The z130 will perform noticeably better, not only because it has a bit more aperture, but also because the aperture ratio of the Z114 has a few contrast down-sides.
Larger obstruction, importance of a parabolic mirror https://i.imgur.com/XcE8pUf.png
Coma at F/4 https://imgur.com/a/lzlNKnd
> StarBlast II
If you could get if for $100, but in my experience prices on eBay always sky-rockets in the last bidding day. Then it's just too close to a new telescope.
The classifieds and astronomy forums are good places to make a bagain once in a while. :-)
E.g. I picked up an old Meade 10" dobsonian for €210/$250 or something like that once.
> Also, a tripod might be needed for my location.
There are just no tripods in this price-range that will support a 4" or 5" telescope sufficiently. E.g. the NEQ3/CG4 (or AZ5, Giro Mini...) costs as much as these telescopes - without a telescope. All EQ mounts in sets in this price-range are way too shaky.
> but there would be limited visible space bc i have trees and my house blocking most of the view- a tripod might make it easier, but again, i haven’t really used that many telescopes before so idk how necessary it is or how much they cost and stuff.
A tripod will get your telescope three feet of the ground. An IKEA Kyrre, crate or something like that two feet. If there are buildings and trees in the way, one foot more or less doesn't matter.
If you get something like the 114eq or 130eq telescope, you can't even extend the tripod fully because those things are so instable. :-) (I've tried...)
The table-tops are more portable otherwise, so it's easier to get to a darker location (important for deep-sky. Milky-way visible?). Especially the AWB OneSky/Heritage 130p.
If you find a used 6-inch dobsonian, it doesn't require a table as the tube's so long. Best observing seated anyway, with any telescope :-)
From an older post regarding stability of the EQ1/EQ2 type mounts (and fake EQ3 / EQ3-1).
> - Examples on poor stability
>
> - Shorter scope on evil AZ fork mount
>
> - Here's how shaky a 114/900 on a EQ-1 is: 1 2 3
>
> - A Video of the amount of shake of a 130/650 on EQ2 [1]
>
> Stability may not seem overly important as beginner, but a shaking mount makes finding, focusing and observing infuriating!
>
> You can literally see how weak such sets are for a large telescope in direct comparison.
>
Too bad!
There is a refurbished/used ones on Amazon, https://www.amazon.ca/Zhumell-Portable-Altazimuth-Reflector-Telescope/dp/B07BRLSVWM/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=zhumell+z130&qid=1623615909&sr=8-1
Both telescopes are very bad choices. They both use spherical mirrors which can not focus light properly at high powers, and they have extremely poor quality mounts which will be super frustrating to try to use, especially for a kid.
Take a look at our telescope buyer's guide, the stickied post on this subreddit. We highly recommend a Zhumell Z130 or SkyWatcher Heritage 130P as a beginner telescope, since they have high quality parabolic mirrors and simple, sturdy, easy to use tabletop mounts. They all go for around $200US.
Here's my review of the Z130: https://astronomysource.com/reviews/zhumell-z130-dobsonian-telescope/
And here's my guide to buying a telescope for kids: https://astronomysource.com/best-telescopes/kids-telescopes/
The Z130s are still in stock as I type this: https://www.amazon.com/Zhumell-Portable-Altazimuth-Reflector-Telescope/dp/B07BRLSVWM
We've been telling people not to buy telescopes from a department store for years--they're almost all cheap hobby-killer instruments sold just to make a quick buck. Celestron got their good reputation on their expensive Schmidt-Cassegrains, but their beginner equipment nowadays is laughable.
https://www.amazon.com/Zhumell-Portable-Altazimuth-Reflector-Telescope/dp/B07BRLSVWM
Check here! 3 left at the moment but more will come
https://www.amazon.com/Zhumell-Portable-Altazimuth-Reflector-Telescope/dp/B07BRLSVWM
Right now 3 left!! At the market price
https://www.amazon.com/Zhumell-Portable-Altazimuth-Reflector-Telescope/dp/B07BRLSVWM
There’s 3 left on Amazon at the moment but they should restock!! Hope you find it!
Zhummel z130 is currently in stock on Amazon. This is a great scope for $200, if that’s your budget.
Zhumell Z130 Portable Altazimuth Reflector Telescope https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BRLSVWM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_HG4AMBDF76YZX7RWTJ33
https://www.amazon.com/Zhumell-Portable-Altazimuth-Reflector-Telescope/dp/B07BRLSVWM
Zhumell 130 isn't back ordered too bad, you could get it by the end of October. I wouldn't expect you to get any other quality scopes any quicker.
What budget-range are you looking in?
$199:
- Zhumell z130 (1/2), AWB OneSky, Heritage 130p.
- These are table-tops, but beat anything in this price-range! I use my 130p on a crate or an inexpensive Ikea (step-)stool. MUCH more sturdy.
- Picture regarding size/handling
$299-$320: 6-Inch dobsonian
- (Skywatcher > > XT6 kit > Apertura DT6)
- Unlike the 5", these are not tabletops anymore.
- Size/Handling video. There are also 6" table-tops (Heritage 150p, Starblast 6, 6i with computer guide).
$400-$500:
- Apertura AD8 > GSO 8" with computer guide > Skywatcher 8-inch > DT8 > XT8 (Plus set not worth it IMHO!)
- 8" are considered the best bang for the buck regarding deep-sky.
- Size/Handling video.
Under $200 there's a lot of rubbish.
- Not ideal, but the ~$140 z114 and the refurbished SkyScanner 100 for $79.99. they are not ideal regarding contrast, planets.
> light pollution?
Unfortunately there's no telescope that's better or worse regarding light-pollution. :-(
But for planets, light pollution does not matter.
Links on what to expect in different telescope aperture ratio.
If you can stretch your budget or wait a bit for a deal, the 5" table-tops are really worth it.
The 4.5" table-tops have a bit of contrast issues due to the F/4 aperture ratio, but still perform better than the shaky sets on tripod/mount in a similar price-range (unless you get a cheap used 114/900 and build a rockerbox mount).
5" table-tops
- Z130 https://www.amazon.com/Zhumell-Portable-Altazimuth-Reflector-Telescope/dp/B07BRLSVWM/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=zhumell+z130&qid=1598024349&sr=8-1
- https://www.highpointscientific.com/zhumell-z130-portable-altazimuth-reflector-telescope-zhus003-1
- OneSky https://shop.astronomerswithoutborders.org/products/awb-onesky-reflector-telescope
- Heritage 130p https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1466512-REG/sky_watcher_s11705_heritage_130mm_f_5_tabletop.html
4.5" table-tops
- https://www.amazon.com/Zhumell-Portable-Altazimuth-Reflector-Telescope/dp/B07BR6G589/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=table+top+telescope&qid=1598024299&sr=8-4
- https://www.telescope.com/Fall-Red-Tag-Sale/Clearance-Telescopes/pc/468/81.uts?&refinementValueIds=4566
- Meade Mini or Eclipseview 114, if you can still find it
Beware the rubbish that is in this price-range. It's just about at the line where you can get a really nice starter telescope.
http://blog.pixelgiraffe.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/coma-F4-sharpness.png
http://blog.pixelgiraffe.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/sim-saturn2.png
Also, for ANY telescope, you benefit greatly from a planetary eyepiece (depending on the telescope a 66° gold-line for $18-$29, or a 58° HR Planetary clone for $26-$50 depending on where you buy it).
Hello :-)
Many of us started with one of these cheap sets. It's really frustrating after you get past the initial amazement of having a new telescope and seeing the moon "up close".
If you got it recently, really return it. There are still options that are in stock. :-)
E.g. the Z130 https://www.amazon.com/Zhumell-Portable-Altazimuth-Reflector-Telescope/dp/B07BRLSVWM/ which at least has decent optics and a stable rockerbox (One in stock, but it was sold out several times last week and comming right back).
Telescope.com had several refurbished XT4.5 and XT6 last week (https://www.telescope.com/Fall-Red-Tag-Sale/Clearance-Telescopes/pc/468/81.uts?&refinementValueIds=4566).
> Does the bird jones design mean it’s never going to clear?
At higher magnification, yes.
> Any tips on how to make everything less wobbly?
You can retract the tripod, put weight on/under the center plate, but it's never going to be solid. A CG4/NEQ3 type of mount costs $250 alone, and thus they bundle these telescopes with weaker mounts.
> Are there any recommendations for a good eyepiece that can enlarge and clarify some of the planets?
You can get a 6mm 66°, $29, it's going to be less than what the 4mm provides you- but better quality, longer eye-relief, and while still pushing the system, it won't be in the over magnification range (as much). The 6mm 66° is useful for most future telescopes unless they have a extreme focal-length. (In the Z130 though you might even need something in the 4mm range, but a 4mm 58°, not a short Plössl or cheap poor 62°).
(But if returning the 127EQ is an option, I'd recommend doing so. I know it sucks, but it'll allow you to get something with better optics).
> there’s some potential here. Is there?
Any telescope will show more than the naked eye :-) But there are too many compromises IMHO.
Clear skies!
Hi! :-)
Covid, lock-downs, shipment delays :-)
In stock as of this post:
5" table-tops
8"
Refurbished 6",
https://www.amazon.com/Zhumell-Portable-Altazimuth-Reflector-Telescope/dp/B07BRLSVWM?th=1
Do some research into using a dobsonian. This one is a table top so won't take up too much space and won't be hard to move around. Really great for $200
Hello :-)
> Telescopio-refractantle-astron
These are utter rubbish. Short refractors suffer from chromatic aberration, rendering them almost useless for planets... The one thing kids are usually interested in. The large accessory set seems like a bargain, but it's the bottom of the barrel stuff.
> Celestron-Refractor
Same
> ToyerBee
Same
> NASA-Lunar
Same :-(
Those telescopes are typical "hobby enders". :-(
> $125-$150
The issue with telescopes: $199 gets you a great starter telescope, $100 almost only rubbish.
A decent tripod would easily double the cost of a set, thus they bundle it with the weakest they can get away with. This will make things frustrating.
A 100mm Skyscanner will beat any of the ones in the list, even though it's not perfect either: https://www.telescope.com/Orion/2nd-Orion-SkyScanner-100mm-TableTop-Reflector-Telescope/rc/2160/p/102360.uts (refurbished, YMMV). A barlow ($15 from Amazon), ideally a dedicated eyepiece (58° type from Aliexpress <=$30) to show the planets large enough.
More capable: https://www.highpointscientific.com/zhumell-z114-portable-altazimuth-reflector-telescope-zhus002-1
Recommendation:
z130! https://www.amazon.com/Zhumell-Portable-Altazimuth-Reflector-Telescope/dp/B07BRLSVWM/
OneSky https://shop.astronomerswithoutborders.org/products/awb-onesky-reflector-telescope
Heritage 130p https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1466512-REG/sky_watcher_s11705_heritage_130mm_f_5_tabletop.html
These are table-tops, but I just use my 130p on a crate or an inexpensive (step-)stool. A much better solution. I've started with a 3" reflector on fork mount and it was incredibly tedious to adjust and keep something in the view.
Another alternative:
A Maksutov is very compact, can also work on a rigid camera tripod. They produce an upright-image, so they make good spotting scopes during the day, too :-) (Avoid the sun! Permanent eye-damage). The 90mm aperture shows more than the 70mm refractor, they "fold" the focal-length so they are short but don't have as much issues as other short telescopes. They will not show as much regarding deep-sky than a 114 or 130mm telescope though.
Saturn in small telescopes: http://blog.pixelgiraffe.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/sim-saturn2.png
Links on what to expect in different telescope aperture sizes
Hello :-)
> 150-200
Are you from the US? Offers differ.
AVOID ANY telescope on a tripod in this price-range, even if it has good reviews on sites like Amazon or on fake review sites promoting referal links. Especially avoid the 127eq, 130eq, 114eq: Flawed optics, weak mount, poor accessories. Same goes for the small refractors you see for ~$99 on Amazon.
During the Corona crisis and lock-downs, shipment delays, a lot of telescope stuff is on back-order world wide.
In this price-range the best performers:
Zhumell z130 1/2 (going in and out of stock at Amazon atm)
AWB OneSky, https://shop.astronomerswithoutborders.org/products/awb-onesky-reflector-telescope
Heritage 130p, https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1466512-REG/sky_watcher_s11705_heritage_130mm_f_5_tabletop.html
These are table-tops but using them on an inexpensive (Ikea) step-stool or such is MUCH better than having to deal with a poor tripod/mount.
Refurbished XT4.5 or XT6 (the later is not a table-top) when available ($199/$239): https://www.telescope.com/Fall-Red-Tag-Sale/Clearance-Telescopes/pc/468/81.uts?&refinementValueIds=4566
If you can stretch your budget, a 6" dobsonian.
Links on what to expect in differen telescope aperture sizes.
Why Powerseeker 127eq, Astromaster 114eq and other bird-jones designs are bad
Most telescopes come on a too weak mount as a better one would double the cost
Hello :-)
Are you from the US?
> $200
The Zhumell z130 1/2, AWB OneSky, or even wait for a refurbished XT6 (https://www.telescope.com/Fall-Red-Tag-Sale/Clearance-Telescopes/pc/468/81.uts?&refinementValueIds=4566),
Add a $20-$30 eyepiece (4mm 58° or a $15 barlow in a pinch. Avoid short Plössl/52° and 62° type! For the XT6 rather get a 6mm 66°).
AVOID ALL Amazon best-sellers with tripod, even if they have overly enthusiastic ratings. The short refractors with lots of accessories, the 127eq/130eq/114eq are all rubbish. Weak mount, flawed optics.
For planets the long 6" would be the best.
Links on what to expect in different telescope aperture sizes.
Clear skies! :-)
Hello :-)
5": The Zhumell z130 is in stock at Amazon at the moment. https://www.amazon.com/Zhumell-Portable-Altazimuth-Reflector-Telescope/dp/B07BRLSVWM/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=zhumell+z130&qid=1597346189&sr=8-1
8": Romer Optics has theirs listed still (GSO, not quite the accessories the Apertura AD8 has, but it has a wide-angle overview eyepiece and dual speed focuser... and a Kit to make it a pushTo telescope) https://romer-optics-llc.myshopify.com/collections/easy-push-to/products/coma-free-8-f-6-dobsonian-with-easy-push-to
Telescope.com has refurbished telescopes, e.g. the XT6 (new, the Skywatcher 6" is the better deal). https://www.telescope.com/Fall-Red-Tag-Sale/Clearance-Telescopes/pc/468/81.uts?&refinementValueIds=4566
8" for scale, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UiW7rRSApBA
6" for scale, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ilwc5hmmEiw
5" for scale, http://www.zudensternen.de/Teleskop%20Skywatcher%20Heritage%20Dobson%20130.html
Links on what to expect in different telescope aperture sizes.
Clear skies :-)
Zhumell ZHUS003-1 Z130 Portable Altazimuth Reflector Telescope, Black https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07BRLSVWM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_D1CREbS6H7BDS
I have just found this on amazon. I will buy this if you could recommended it?
Hello :-)
> new
What telescope do you have now?
> not a celestron
Not all celestron telescopes are bad! Even in this price-range there are some (e.g. c90, very limited, but the small aperture is limiting)
> Amazon
> $150
Any flexibility on that?
There is a lot of garbage in this range. For just a little more, you can get a good telescope.
E.g.
The 130/650 are table-tops, but on an inexpensive, rigid box/stool/table (I use the Ikea Bekväm for my 130p) it's a much better solution than ANY tripod design in this price-range. I've tried.
The larger dobsonians aren't table-tops anymore (e.g. you could look for a used 6" dobsonian such as the Skywatcher 6-inch or Orion XT6. The latter's sometimes available refurbished for ~ $220).
The only way to get a good telescope under $150 is to get a (used, <$50) 114/900 telescope (NOT 114/1000 or 127/1000) and build a rockerbox 1, 2. While the 114/900 have relatively decent optics, the mounts that are included are just so weak that focusing and observing becomes tedious. A better mount will cost more than a 6" dobsonian.
The Skyscanner 100, Zhumell z100 are not bad, but have limitations due to the extreme aperture ratio (obstruction, contrast...).
> Saturn
Clear skies!
Popular alternatives to Zhumell Z130 Portable Altaz...
Celestron - PowerSeeker 127EQ Telescope - Manual German Equatorial Telescope for Beginners - Compact and Portable - Bonus Astronomy Software Package - 127mm Aperture
