Celestron Astro Fi 130 Wireless Reflecting Telescope

Celestron Astro Fi 130 Wireless Reflecting Telescope — image 1
Celestron Astro Fi 130 Wireless Reflecting Telescope — image 2
Celestron Astro Fi 130 Wireless Reflecting Telescope — image 3
Celestron Astro Fi 130 Wireless Reflecting Telescope — image 4
Celestron Astro Fi 130 Wireless Reflecting Telescope — image 5
Celestron Astro Fi 130 Wireless Reflecting Telescope — image 6
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84%
85%
Ease of Setup
90%
Wi-Fi Control Functionality
88%
Aperture Performance (130mm)
92%
Portability
86%
Image Quality
80%
Build Quality
89%
User-Friendly App Experience
73%
Accuracy of Alignment
84%
Accessories Included
75%
Customer Support
91%
Value for Money
78%
Weight and Stability
More

Overview

The Celestron Astro Fi 130 Wireless Reflecting Telescope offers an excellent balance of performance and portability for beginners. This telescope is equipped with a 130mm Newtonian reflector design, making it a solid choice for those new to stargazing. It’s easy to set up and use, thanks to its Wi-Fi control via the Celestron Sky Portal app, which allows users to operate the telescope from their smartphones. Portable and lightweight, this model is perfect for users who want to enjoy astronomy without the hassle of complex equipment or heavy gear.

Features & Benefits

The Astro Fi 130 features a 130mm aperture that delivers clear views of the Moon, planets, and even distant nebulae. The fully coated glass optics ensure that the images are bright and sharp, ideal for those starting their stargazing journey. With manual focus, users can make precise adjustments to achieve the best view. An accessory tray is included for organizing eyepieces and holding a smartphone, while the StarPointer™ red dot finderscope makes object tracking much easier, ensuring smooth viewing experiences for beginners.

Best For

This telescope is perfect for beginner astronomers who want a simple, effective way to explore the night sky. The Astro Fi 130 is designed for users who enjoy wireless control through their smartphones, making it a convenient choice for those who don’t want to be bogged down with complicated controls. It’s especially well-suited for casual stargazers or families looking to introduce astronomy to younger users, offering a user-friendly experience and solid viewing capabilities without any steep learning curve.

User Feedback

Users generally appreciate the ease of setup and the ability to control the telescope using the Sky Portal app, with many praising its user-friendly design. However, some report challenges with initial alignment, which may require patience during setup. Once properly aligned, many find the 130mm aperture delivers satisfying views that make it an ideal choice for beginner-level stargazing. The portability and the included accessories like the smartphone holder are often mentioned as big positives, although a few users noted that it may not be as stable in high winds.

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Pros

  • The 130mm aperture offers bright, clear views of the Moon and planets, making it ideal for beginner stargazers.
  • Wi-Fi control via the Celestron Sky Portal app allows for easy smartphone management of the telescope.
  • The compact and portable design makes this telescope easy to transport for stargazing on the go.
  • Setup is simple and quick, especially for users new to telescopes or those with limited experience.
  • Included accessories like the smartphone holder and eyepiece tray enhance usability and organization.
  • The StarPointer™ red dot finderscope makes object tracking more intuitive, even for beginners.

Cons

  • The alignment process can be difficult for some users, especially those new to telescopes.
  • The telescope may not provide enough detail for more advanced astronomy enthusiasts.
  • Some users find the manual focus less precise compared to other telescopes with motorized adjustments.
  • In areas with significant light pollution, fainter celestial objects may not be as visible.
  • The 130mm aperture may not be sufficient for deep space observation or more advanced stargazing.
  • At 17 lbs, the device may be too heavy for users seeking an ultra-lightweight option for travel.

Ratings

The ratings for the Celestron Astro Fi 130 Wireless Reflecting Telescope were produced by analyzing verified user reviews from diverse platforms and languages worldwide. Spam, bot-generated, or incentivized reviews have been filtered out to ensure only authentic and high-quality feedback informs these scores. Both strengths and pain points have been reflected, giving a balanced view of the product's performance across different use cases and user experiences.

Ease of Setup
85%
Many users mention how easy and quick the initial setup is, especially for beginners. The simple, compact design and intuitive instructions make it accessible even for first-time telescope users, with most being able to get it ready for stargazing in minutes.
However, some buyers reported minor frustrations with the alignment process. A few users noted that it can take a little time to get the initial positioning just right, and the instructions were not always clear in those moments.
Wi-Fi Control Functionality
90%
The integration with the Celestron Sky Portal app is highly praised by users who enjoy the convenience of controlling the telescope directly from their smartphones. This feature allows for quick adjustments and tracking of celestial objects without needing to manually adjust the telescope.
On the flip side, some users faced connectivity issues, especially with older smartphones or when the app didn't sync seamlessly. This occasionally resulted in frustration, as it hindered the smooth use of Wi-Fi control features.
Aperture Performance (130mm)
88%
The 130mm aperture is one of the standout features, providing bright and clear views of the Moon, planets, and even distant nebulae. Users appreciate the crisp details it offers, making it ideal for beginners who are just starting to explore the night sky.
However, some users felt the telescope could struggle with more distant or faint objects under light-polluted skies. While the aperture is generally well-regarded, it doesn't perform as well in urban areas with high light interference.
Portability
92%
The compact and lightweight design is perfect for users who want a telescope that's easy to transport. Whether it's for a camping trip or backyard use, its manageable weight and size make it highly portable, offering great flexibility for on-the-go stargazing.
Despite its portability, a few users mentioned that the setup can still feel bulky for those with limited storage space. Additionally, some felt that the size could be inconvenient for more frequent travel, especially when packed alongside other equipment.
Image Quality
86%
For many users, the image quality provided by the fully coated glass optics delivers sharp, bright visuals. The telescope excels in capturing both planetary details and some nebulae, providing satisfying views for casual stargazers.
Some buyers, however, were disappointed by occasional image distortions at higher magnifications. A few users found that the focus could be tricky to adjust precisely, especially for objects farther away, leading to slight blurriness.
Build Quality
80%
20%
Many buyers appreciate the solid construction of the telescope, noting its sturdy design and long-lasting materials. The assembly feels robust, and it can withstand casual handling, making it reliable for beginners who may not be as gentle with their gear.
Despite the sturdy build, some users mentioned that certain parts, like the mount or tripod, feel a bit flimsy. A few reviewers reported occasional wobbling, especially when using the telescope in less-than-ideal conditions or while making adjustments.
User-Friendly App Experience
89%
The Celestron Sky Portal app is widely appreciated for its user-friendly interface. It provides simple, efficient control, making it easy for even beginners to operate the telescope and access different celestial bodies without needing to understand complex technical setups.
However, a small number of users expressed frustration with app crashes or issues with synchronization. Some mentioned that certain features were not intuitive enough, especially for those less familiar with smartphone applications.
Accuracy of Alignment
73%
27%
Once the alignment process is set, users enjoy the precise tracking and object location. The red dot finder is especially helpful for beginners in locating objects more easily, which makes for a smoother overall stargazing experience.
Alignment can be a challenge for some, particularly in the initial setup. Users found the instructions lacking in detail for beginners, and a few reported that realigning after use could be cumbersome, leading to some lost time during observations.
Accessories Included
84%
The included accessories, such as the eyepieces and smartphone holder, are often mentioned positively. The accessories add to the overall value of the telescope, enhancing the stargazing experience and making it easier to view celestial objects with clarity.
However, some buyers felt that the quality of the included eyepieces could be improved. While adequate for beginners, a few users preferred higher-quality alternatives that could provide even sharper or wider views.
Customer Support
75%
25%
When contacted, customer support was generally responsive, with users reporting helpful troubleshooting steps for common issues like app connectivity or alignment problems. Many buyers appreciated that the team was willing to walk them through the setup process.
A few users, however, had mixed experiences, mentioning delayed responses or issues being unresolved after multiple inquiries. These users were frustrated by the lack of thorough assistance for more technical questions.
Value for Money
91%
Most users find the telescope to be an excellent value for its price, especially for beginners. The combination of Wi-Fi control, portability, and quality optics makes it an affordable choice for those looking to dip their toes into astronomy without breaking the bank.
While many feel it's a great value, a few buyers argued that the price could be slightly lower for the overall package, especially considering the challenges with certain features like the initial alignment and the app's occasional connectivity issues.
Weight and Stability
78%
22%
The telescope’s weight is generally manageable, which makes it easier to carry around for outdoor stargazing sessions. The stability of the mount also works well when used on flat surfaces, ensuring steady viewing during most observations.
Some users mentioned that while it is light, the telescope can still feel a bit unstable on uneven surfaces or when adjusting the focus. This can lead to minor shake or wobble, especially when viewing higher magnifications.

Suitable for:

The Celestron Astro Fi 130 Wireless Reflecting Telescope is ideal for beginner astronomers and casual stargazers who want a user-friendly and affordable entry into the world of astronomy. Its 130mm aperture provides bright, clear views of the Moon, planets, and nebulae, making it perfect for those just starting out. Families, students, or educational settings will also benefit from its simple setup, portability, and Wi-Fi control via the Celestron Sky Portal app. With its compact design, this telescope is easy to transport for backyard stargazing, camping trips, or educational demonstrations, offering great convenience for those who want to explore the night sky without complicated equipment or instructions.

Not suitable for:

This telescope may not be the best choice for advanced astronomers or those looking for high-end performance. While it offers great value for beginners, some users noted that its alignment process can be tricky, especially for those unfamiliar with telescope setups. The 130mm aperture may not provide the same level of detail for deep space objects as larger models, making it less suitable for more serious astronomers. Additionally, those in urban areas with significant light pollution may find the image quality underwhelming for fainter celestial objects. Users seeking a telescope with advanced features or quicker, more intuitive alignment may need to explore other options.

Specifications

  • Optical Design: Newtonian reflector design offering clear, bright images with minimal distortion.
  • Aperture: 130mm aperture, ideal for beginner astronomers to view the Moon, planets, and brighter deep-sky objects.
  • Focal Length: 635mm focal length providing a balanced field of view for a variety of celestial objects.
  • Mount Type: Computerized Altitude-Azimuth mount for easy positioning and tracking of celestial objects.
  • Focus Type: Manual focus for precise adjustments, allowing for clearer, sharper images.
  • Power Source: Powered by a 12V DC adapter for consistent performance during stargazing sessions.
  • Wi-Fi Control: Wireless control via the Celestron Sky Portal app, enabling smartphone-based operation and object tracking.
  • Included Eyepieces: Comes with two 1.25” Kellner eyepieces, offering different magnification levels for diverse observations.
  • Finderscope: StarPointer™ red dot finderscope to assist in accurately locating celestial objects in the night sky.
  • Weight: Weighs 17 lbs, making it portable but still substantial for stable operation.
  • Dimensions: Measures 38″D x 38″W x 56″H, a compact size for easy setup and storage.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with Celestron Sky Portal app for wireless control on smartphones and tablets.
  • Build Material: Durable construction designed for light outdoor use, built to withstand typical handling.
  • Tracking Technology: Automatic object tracking with computerized mount helps users follow objects without manual adjustments.
  • User-Friendly Setup: Quick and simple assembly, ideal for beginners who may be unfamiliar with telescope setup.
  • App Features: Sky Portal app provides a detailed sky map, guiding users to thousands of celestial objects.
  • Portability: Compact and portable, ideal for stargazing on the go or in various locations.
  • Maintenance: Requires minimal maintenance, mainly cleaning the optics and ensuring proper storage when not in use.

FAQ

This telescope is perfect for beginners and casual stargazers who want a user-friendly and portable option for observing the Moon, planets, and brighter deep-sky objects. Its Wi-Fi control feature through the Sky Portal app makes it especially suitable for smartphone-based management, offering a hassle-free viewing experience.

Setting up this telescope is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Once you unbox it, attach the mount to the tripod, install the eyepieces, and connect to the Wi-Fi using the Celestron Sky Portal app on your smartphone. The app guides you through the alignment process, but it may require some patience for first-time users.

Yes, the Astro Fi 130 can be controlled via the Celestron Sky Portal app, which allows you to align and track celestial objects directly from your smartphone. This wireless control is convenient, especially for beginners, as it simplifies telescope operation and eliminates the need for manual adjustments.

With its 130mm aperture, this telescope provides clear, detailed views of the Moon, planets like Jupiter and Saturn, and some brighter deep-sky objects such as nebulae and star clusters. While it’s excellent for beginner-level stargazing, it may not offer the level of detail required for advanced astronomy or deep-sky exploration.

The Astro Fi 130 is relatively portable, weighing 17 lbs and designed with a compact build. Its lightweight structure and simple setup make it easy to carry and use in various locations, whether you're stargazing in your backyard or traveling to darker skies.

Some users report challenges with the initial alignment process, particularly if they're new to telescopes. However, once properly aligned using the Sky Portal app, the telescope is generally easy to operate. Patience and practice may be needed for optimal alignment during the first few uses.

The Astro Fi 130 includes two 1.25” Kellner eyepieces, a StarPointer™ red dot finderscope for easier object tracking, and an accessory tray for storing eyepieces and a smartphone holder. These additions improve both usability and convenience, particularly for beginner astronomers.

While the Astro Fi 130 can be used for basic astrophotography, its manual focus and lack of advanced features make it less suited for serious astrophotographers. If you're looking to capture high-quality images of deep-space objects, you may want to consider a more advanced model.

If you're experiencing tracking issues, double-check the alignment and calibration through the Sky Portal app. Make sure the telescope is properly connected to the Wi-Fi, and that you're following the app's instructions closely. In some cases, a manual realignment may be required for optimal tracking performance.

Yes, the Astro Fi 130 is an excellent choice for families or educational settings. Its simplicity, wireless control, and portability make it easy to introduce astronomy to children or students. The included accessories and app guidance also help to ensure an engaging and educational experience.