Celestron Travel Scope 50 Portable Refractor Telescope

Celestron Travel Scope 50 Portable Refractor Telescope — image 1
Celestron Travel Scope 50 Portable Refractor Telescope — image 2
Celestron Travel Scope 50 Portable Refractor Telescope — image 3
Celestron Travel Scope 50 Portable Refractor Telescope — image 4
Celestron Travel Scope 50 Portable Refractor Telescope — image 5
Celestron Travel Scope 50 Portable Refractor Telescope — image 6
Celestron Travel Scope 50 Portable Refractor Telescope — image 7
Celestron Travel Scope 50 Portable Refractor Telescope — image 8
85%
93%
Portability & Weight
91%
Ease of Setup
68%
Magnification Performance
85%
Image Clarity & Optics
83%
Build Quality
90%
Included Accessories
78%
Software Experience
80%
Customer Support & Warranty
92%
Value for Money
88%
Usability for Beginners
91%
Compactness for Travel
77%
Long-Term Durability
More

Overview

The Celestron Travel Scope 50 Portable Refractor Telescope is a compact and lightweight telescope designed for beginners and casual stargazers. This portable refractor telescope offers a 50mm aperture, providing clear and sharp views of the Moon, planets, and some deep space objects. With its simple, tool-free setup, it's an excellent choice for anyone new to astronomy. The package includes a full-height tripod, a convenient backpack for easy storage, and two eyepieces for varying magnification. Whether you're at home or traveling, this telescope is designed to be as hassle-free as possible, making it a solid choice for first-time users.

Features & Benefits

This Celestron telescope is built to offer sharp, bright views thanks to its fully-coated glass optics. The 50mm aperture paired with 360mm focal length offers a balance between portability and clear image quality. The two eyepieces—20mm and 8mm—allow for versatile viewing, whether you want a wider field of view or more detailed close-ups. Its lightweight design and the included padded backpack make it easy to take anywhere, while the bonus Starry Night software enhances your stargazing experience by helping you identify celestial objects. Additionally, the telescope comes with a 2-year warranty and reliable US-based support.

Best For

The Travel Scope 50 is ideal for beginners looking for an easy-to-use telescope that doesn’t require a steep learning curve. It suits families who want to introduce their children to the wonders of astronomy in a fun and approachable way. For those who love to travel, this telescope is perfect due to its compact size and portability. It’s also a great fit for anyone with no prior experience in astronomy but looking for a simple, entry-level instrument to explore the night sky and some daytime views.

User Feedback

Users generally rate this Celestron telescope positively, with over 15,000 customers awarding it a solid 4.2 out of 5 stars. Many reviewers highlight its easy setup and light weight as key benefits, especially for those new to astronomy. However, some users mention that while the magnification is adequate for the Moon and planets, it's not powerful enough for deep space exploration. Despite these limitations, the majority agree that it’s a great starter telescope for casual use, offering a satisfying entry point for stargazing without overwhelming complexity.

#Refractors
#Telescopes
#Binoculars & Scopes
#Camera & Photo
#Electronics

Pros

  • This telescope is highly portable, making it ideal for traveling or stargazing on the go.
  • Setup is quick and easy, requiring no tools and making it perfect for beginners.
  • The included Starry Night software enhances the stargazing experience by providing detailed star charts and sky simulations.
  • Users appreciate the lightweight design, which makes it easy to carry and handle for casual use.
  • The 50mm aperture offers clear views of the moon and nearby planets, perfect for beginners.
  • The package includes all necessary accessories, including a tripod, backpack, and eyepieces, providing great value for the price.

Cons

  • Some users report that the magnification is too low for deep space observation, limiting its use for advanced astronomy.
  • The build quality, while lightweight, can feel flimsy and may not hold up to frequent use or rough handling.
  • The 45x magnification is adequate for casual observations, but it may disappoint those looking for more detailed views of distant objects.
  • The manual focus can be challenging for new users to adjust smoothly, especially when trying to focus on distant objects.
  • The tripod, although full-height, may not provide the most stable platform during use, especially in windy conditions.
  • Some users have mentioned that the finderscope could be more precise for easier alignment with objects in the sky.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide, across multiple languages and platforms, we present a comprehensive breakdown of the Celestron Travel Scope 50 Portable Refractor Telescope. All spam, bot-generated, and incentivized reviews have been excluded, ensuring that only authentic, high-quality feedback contributes to these scores. While users consistently praise the telescope's portability and ease of use, some noted limitations in magnification for deep space observations. This mix of strengths and pain points is reflected across a wide range of reviews, providing valuable insights for potential buyers.

Portability & Weight
93%
Many users appreciate the lightweight design and compact build, making it easy to carry around. It's an ideal telescope for travel, fitting effortlessly into a backpack or car trunk. The portability allows casual stargazers to take it on trips without hassle, ensuring a flexible viewing experience wherever they go.
A few users mention that, while the telescope is easy to carry, its smaller size can limit stability in windy conditions. Some feel that the lightweight design compromises sturdiness during use, particularly when extending the tripod for more stable viewing.
Ease of Setup
91%
The quick, tool-free setup is a standout feature for beginners. Users love how effortlessly they can assemble it and begin stargazing in minutes, with no complex instructions or parts. It's particularly praised by families and novice astronomers who want a hassle-free experience.
Despite its easy setup, a few reviewers mention that the manual focus system can be a bit tricky for first-time users. Some users prefer a more automated approach, as manual adjustments may be slightly challenging for young kids or those with little technical knowledge.
Magnification Performance
68%
32%
For beginners and casual stargazers, the magnification offers a clear view of the moon and nearby planets. Users note that it's sufficient for everyday viewing and enjoying the night sky with minimal expectations of deep-space exploration.
The magnification has drawn criticism from some users who were expecting better performance for distant celestial objects. Some felt that the 45x magnification was underwhelming, especially for those hoping to observe galaxies or stars in greater detail.
Image Clarity & Optics
85%
Reviewers rave about the fully-coated glass optics, which provide sharp, clear images. Many users highlight the clarity when viewing the moon, planets, and stars within a reasonable distance, making it a great option for those new to astronomy.
However, a few buyers mentioned some minor blurring at higher magnifications, which could affect the viewing experience for those seeking high-definition imagery. While good for casual users, enthusiasts may find the image quality lacking at times.
Build Quality
83%
The telescope's build quality has generally received positive feedback. Its durable, lightweight construction ensures that it can withstand the occasional bump, making it a solid choice for families and travelers. The included tripod is also appreciated for its sturdiness during casual observation.
Some users feel that the overall build, while solid, lacks the premium feel of more advanced models. A few reviews noted that the tripod could be more stable and that the plastic components feel a bit flimsy when fully extended.
Included Accessories
90%
The inclusion of useful accessories like the tripod, backpack, eyepieces, and the bonus Starry Night software impressed many buyers. These accessories make the product feel complete and enhance the stargazing experience, especially for beginners looking to dive into astronomy with minimal investment.
While most users appreciate the accessories, some feel the quality of the backpack could be improved. A few noted that the bag is somewhat small and doesn't hold everything securely, which might be inconvenient for users looking for more spacious storage.
Software Experience
78%
22%
The Starry Night software is a helpful addition for beginners who want to learn more about the night sky. Users found it easy to navigate, and it helped enhance their understanding of the constellations and celestial bodies they were observing.
However, some users were disappointed by the software's limited features. A few complained that it could be more interactive and that it didn’t offer much beyond basic stargazing tools, leaving more advanced astronomers wanting more.
Customer Support & Warranty
80%
20%
Celestron’s 2-year warranty and responsive customer support are appreciated by many buyers. Those who encountered issues with their units reported a smooth experience with troubleshooting and receiving replacements or solutions within a reasonable time frame.
Some users felt that customer service could have been more proactive in addressing certain concerns, particularly when dealing with defective parts. A few customers expressed frustration with response times during busy periods.
Value for Money
92%
Users agree that this telescope offers excellent value for the price, especially for beginners. The combination of ease of use, decent optics, and helpful accessories makes it a great entry-level option without breaking the bank. It’s a solid choice for those looking to get started with stargazing without a huge investment.
While most buyers are satisfied with the value, a few believe that the telescope’s lower magnification and limited capabilities might not be enough for more serious enthusiasts. Some feel that for those looking to expand their astronomical pursuits, a higher-end model might be worth the extra cost.
Usability for Beginners
88%
This telescope shines as a beginner-friendly option. The tool-free setup and intuitive design make it an ideal choice for newcomers to astronomy. Many users praised how easy it was to start using immediately after unpacking, offering an approachable way to explore the stars.
Although it's great for beginners, a few users feel that the lack of advanced features limits long-term use. Some buyers expressed that, as they become more familiar with astronomy, they may outgrow this model and seek a more powerful telescope.
Compactness for Travel
91%
The compact design makes this telescope an excellent travel companion. Users enjoy how easily it fits into a backpack and can be carried on trips, allowing for spontaneous stargazing adventures. Its lightweight nature adds to the convenience for travelers.
However, a few users felt that the smaller size compromises stability when viewing in certain conditions. Although it's perfect for travel, the smaller aperture may not provide the same stability and detailed viewing as larger telescopes during prolonged observation sessions.
Long-Term Durability
77%
23%
For most users, the telescope has shown satisfactory durability, handling occasional bumps and regular use without significant issues. It's a reliable option for casual, short-term stargazing activities.
Some buyers report wear and tear over time, with plastic parts feeling less durable after prolonged use. A few users experienced issues with the tripod and focus mechanism, which may not hold up as well over the long term, especially with more frequent use.

Suitable for:

The Celestron Travel Scope 50 Portable Refractor Telescope is an excellent choice for beginners and casual stargazers. Its compact design and ease of setup make it ideal for users who are new to astronomy or those looking for a portable, low-maintenance telescope. Families with young children, students, or travelers will particularly appreciate the lightweight nature and travel-friendly features of this device. Additionally, the inclusion of accessories like the Starry Night software and the full-height tripod provides an all-in-one package, perfect for those eager to explore the night sky without significant investment in advanced equipment.

Not suitable for:

This telescope may not be the best fit for advanced astronomy enthusiasts or users looking for high-powered magnification. While it performs well for casual observations of the moon and nearby planets, the magnification and image quality may fall short for deep space exploration. Serious astronomers or those hoping to observe distant galaxies and finer celestial details may find the 50mm aperture and 45x magnification limiting. Additionally, users who need a more stable and premium build may be disappointed, as some reviewers mentioned that the lightweight design and plastic components can feel flimsy during prolonged use.

Specifications

  • Type: Refractor telescope designed for beginner-level astronomy and casual stargazing.
  • Aperture: 50mm aperture for clear views of the moon, planets, and brighter stars.
  • Focal Length: 360mm focal length for optimal balance between field of view and magnification.
  • Magnification: Offers magnifications of 18x with the 20mm eyepiece and 45x with the 8mm eyepiece.
  • Eyepieces: Includes two eyepieces: a 20mm and an 8mm for varied viewing experiences.
  • Tripod: Full-height tripod included for stable and adjustable support during use.
  • Finderscope: 5x24 finderscope helps locate objects in the sky with greater accuracy.
  • Weight: Weighs just 2.2 lbs, making it lightweight and highly portable for travel.
  • Software: Comes with Starry Night software to help users identify celestial objects and enhance the stargazing experience.
  • Focus Type: Manual focus system for adjusting sharpness and clarity of the observed objects.
  • Power Source: Manual operation requires no batteries or external power source.
  • Warranty: Includes a 2-year limited warranty for peace of mind and product support.
  • Build Material: Constructed with durable, lightweight materials for ease of transport and handling.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with a variety of standard astronomy accessories and eyepieces.
  • Ideal Use: Best for beginners, casual stargazers, and travelers looking for a portable, easy-to-use telescope.
  • Assembly: Simple, tool-free assembly makes it quick and easy to set up right out of the box.
  • Optical Coatings: Fully-coated glass optics improve light transmission for sharper, clearer images.
  • Dimensions: Compact design with a length of approximately 14 inches when fully assembled.
  • Customer Support: Backed by US-based customer support for troubleshooting and assistance.

FAQ

This telescope is ideal for beginners, casual stargazers, and travelers. It's easy to use and lightweight, making it a great choice for anyone just starting with astronomy or those who want a compact, portable option for casual skywatching.

Setting up this telescope is straightforward and does not require any tools. It comes with a full-height tripod and simple instructions, making it perfect for beginners who want a hassle-free stargazing experience.

The Travel Scope 50 offers two eyepieces: a 20mm for 18x magnification and an 8mm for 45x magnification. These are suitable for viewing the moon, nearby planets, and some brighter stars, but they may not provide sufficient magnification for deep space objects.

While the Celestron Travel Scope 50 offers good views for beginners, its magnification and 50mm aperture are limited for deep space observation. It's better suited for casual stargazing and exploring the moon, planets, and bright stars.

The telescope comes with a full-height tripod, two eyepieces (20mm and 8mm), a backpack for portability, and bonus Starry Night software. These accessories make it convenient for users to set up and use the telescope right away.

The Travel Scope 50 is very portable, weighing just 2.2 lbs. It's compact and comes with a backpack for easy carrying, making it perfect for travelers who want to stargaze on the go.

This telescope is not designed for astrophotography. Its manual focus and lower magnification make it more suitable for visual observation rather than capturing images of celestial objects.

The telescope is lightweight and designed for casual use, so it may not be as durable as higher-end models meant for heavy-duty use. If handled carefully, it should last, but it may not withstand rough conditions or frequent transport.

The Starry Night software provides an interactive sky map, helping you identify stars, planets, and constellations. It's a great tool for beginners to learn more about the night sky and enhance their stargazing experience.

Users appreciate the telescope's lightweight design, ease of setup, and the clear views it offers for casual stargazing. The inclusion of the Starry Night software is also a big plus for those looking to enhance their astronomy knowledge.