Celestron Travel Scope 60DX Portable Refractor Telescope

Celestron Travel Scope 60DX Portable Refractor Telescope — image 1
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Celestron Travel Scope 60DX Portable Refractor Telescope — image 5
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81%
19%
91%
Portability & Size
89%
Ease of Setup
84%
Optical Clarity
78%
Build Quality
90%
User-Friendliness
82%
Accessories & Extras
73%
Magnification Range
65%
Tripod Stability
80%
Software Experience (Starry Night)
92%
Value for Money
88%
Transport & Storage
72%
Durability
70%
Customer Support
More

Overview

The Celestron Travel Scope 60DX Portable Refractor Telescope is a versatile and user-friendly telescope designed for beginners and casual stargazers. This lightweight instrument offers a 60mm aperture, making it ideal for viewing both celestial objects and terrestrial landscapes. It comes with a compact design and an included backpack, ensuring easy transport for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers. Perfect for those with no prior telescope experience, this refractor provides clear, enjoyable views with minimal setup required.

Features & Benefits

This portable telescope comes equipped with fully-coated glass optics, which provide bright and crisp images even in low light. It includes two eyepieces (20mm and 8mm) for different magnification levels, and the 3x Barlow lens enhances your viewing experience. A smartphone adapter allows for capturing photos and videos of your observations, while the Starry Night software helps you navigate the night sky. With its easy-to-assemble design and padded backpack, it's a great option for stargazers on the go.

Best For

The Celestron Travel Scope 60DX is best for beginner astronomers who are looking for a simple, easy-to-use telescope to get started. It also suits families and kids eager to explore the night sky, as well as travelers who need a compact and lightweight telescope. Additionally, it’s a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts who want a versatile tool for both day and night activities, offering clear views of wildlife or the Moon. Its portability makes it a great all-in-one solution for diverse users.

User Feedback

The majority of users appreciate the Celestron Travel Scope 60DX for its ease of setup and portability, which make it a hit with beginners and casual users. Many have found the telescope’s clarity impressive given its price point. However, some users have noted that the included tripod can be a bit unstable during longer sessions, making it less ideal for extended viewing. Additionally, while the magnification is sufficient for most stargazing, those seeking more advanced deep-sky observation may find the 142x max magnification limiting.

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

Pros

  • This portable telescope is easy to set up and use, making it ideal for beginners.
  • The 60mm aperture provides clear and bright images of both celestial and terrestrial objects.
  • Its compact design and included backpack make it convenient for on-the-go stargazing.
  • The smartphone adapter allows users to capture photos and videos directly through the telescope.
  • The fully-coated glass optics ensure sharp, crisp images even at lower magnifications.
  • At just 3.3 lbs, this telescope is lightweight enough for family use and travel.

Cons

  • The included tripod has been criticized for instability during extended use.
  • The magnification range may not be sufficient for users interested in deep-sky or advanced stargazing.
  • The telescope’s build quality is adequate but may not withstand rough handling or long-term outdoor exposure.
  • Some users find the manual focus a bit tricky to adjust, especially when trying to achieve a sharp image.
  • The lack of higher magnification limits its use for detailed observations of distant objects.
  • Advanced users may find this device too basic for serious astronomical work.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide, across multiple languages and platforms, the scores for the Celestron Travel Scope 60DX Portable Refractor Telescope reflect a balance of strengths and areas for improvement. We filtered out spam, bot-generated, incentivized, duplicated, and off-topic reviews to ensure that only authentic, high-quality feedback contributed to these ratings. Both positive and critical insights were taken into account for a fair representation of the product's performance and value.

Portability & Size
91%
Many users highlight the telescope's compact and lightweight design, making it easy to take on the go. The included backpack ensures convenient storage and portability, making it a great choice for outdoor adventures and stargazing trips.
While the size is appreciated for travel, some users find it a bit too small for more advanced viewing needs. The lightweight build, although convenient for portability, may feel less durable to those seeking a more robust setup.
Ease of Setup
89%
Buyers often praise the quick and simple setup process, even for beginners. The manual focus and intuitive mounting system make it easy to get started with minimal hassle, perfect for those new to astronomy.
However, a few users mention that the setup instructions could be clearer for first-time telescope owners. Some found the tripod adjustments a bit finicky, adding minor setup delays for those unfamiliar with the equipment.
Optical Clarity
84%
The majority of users are impressed by the crisp and clear images provided by the 60mm aperture. It offers a bright view for both celestial and terrestrial observations, making it ideal for casual stargazing and daytime exploration.
Some buyers felt that while the image quality is good for the price, it might not hold up for more serious astronomy enthusiasts. A few also noted that the magnification could be stronger for more detailed views of distant objects.
Build Quality
78%
22%
The telescope's frame and components are generally considered sturdy enough for casual use. It performs well under normal conditions and is built with convenience in mind for beginners and occasional stargazers.
Several reviewers felt that the build quality could be more robust, especially in the tripod. The materials used for the stand and mount might not withstand prolonged or rough use, leading to concerns about durability over time.
User-Friendliness
90%
Users widely report that this telescope is easy to handle, even for those without prior experience. The combination of the intuitive manual focus, easy-to-understand controls, and included accessories makes it an excellent entry-level choice.
Some users mentioned that the lack of motorized controls could be a drawback for those looking for a more automated experience. A few also wished for additional fine-tuning options to enhance user comfort during extended sessions.
Accessories & Extras
82%
18%
The included smartphone adapter and Starry Night software are a hit, adding extra value to the package. Users appreciate having the option to capture images and videos of their observations, enhancing the stargazing experience.
While the accessories are helpful, some users felt that the quality of the tripod and Bluetooth remote could be improved. There were also mentions that the software, while useful, may not be as advanced as some users might expect.
Magnification Range
73%
27%
The two eyepieces provide adequate magnification for casual stargazing and general observations. For beginners, the range is sufficient to see the moon, planets, and nearby stars with decent clarity.
However, the magnification range may be too limited for users hoping to observe distant galaxies or finer details. Some users reported that higher magnification models would offer a more satisfying experience for more advanced astronomers.
Tripod Stability
65%
35%
Many users find the tripod sufficient for basic use and occasional observations. The height is adjustable, and it offers enough stability for the casual user who doesn’t need extensive stability for detailed views.
A common complaint about the tripod is its instability during extended use, especially in windy conditions. Users have mentioned that it may wobble or shift slightly, which can be frustrating for those looking for a stable and reliable setup.
Software Experience (Starry Night)
80%
20%
The free Starry Night software provides a great tool for beginners to learn about celestial navigation. It helps users plan their stargazing sessions, offering an interactive way to explore the night sky.
Some users felt that the software could be more user-friendly, especially for those new to astronomy. The interface can be overwhelming for younger users or those unfamiliar with celestial objects, limiting its overall usefulness.
Value for Money
92%
Overall, buyers find this telescope offers excellent value for money. It delivers a solid combination of portability, ease of use, and decent optical quality, making it an affordable option for beginners and casual astronomers.
While the telescope offers great value, some users felt that the accessories and materials could be more premium. Others wished for additional features, like a more durable tripod or stronger magnification, to justify the price fully.
Transport & Storage
88%
The compact design and inclusion of a padded backpack make it incredibly convenient to carry and store. Users appreciate how easy it is to pack it up after use and transport it to different locations.
A few users mentioned that the bag could be slightly larger to accommodate the telescope more comfortably. The telescopic mount and tripod, though manageable, may be difficult to store neatly in the provided case.
Durability
72%
28%
For everyday use, the telescope holds up well and performs decently. It’s light enough for handling but sturdy enough for short-term use, making it a good choice for non-professional, casual observers.
Durability could be an issue over the long term. The lightweight construction, while great for portability, leads some users to worry that it might not withstand long-term use or harsher weather conditions, especially the tripod and mount.
Customer Support
70%
30%
Celestron's customer support is generally helpful in responding to queries and providing basic troubleshooting. Many users find their responses timely when seeking assistance with assembly or minor product issues.
However, some users have reported delayed responses or difficulty reaching support for more complex issues. A few buyers felt that more in-depth guidance would have been helpful, especially for first-time telescope users.

Suitable for:

The Celestron Travel Scope 60DX Portable Refractor Telescope is ideal for beginner astronomers, families, and casual stargazers. With its simple setup and compact design, it's perfect for users with little to no prior telescope experience. The lightweight construction and included backpack make it especially convenient for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts who want a portable solution for both day and night observations. Additionally, its affordability and decent optical quality make it an excellent choice for students or hobbyists who are just starting to explore the world of astronomy without breaking the bank.

Not suitable for:

This telescope may not be the best option for experienced astronomers or those seeking more advanced features. While its 60mm aperture offers decent clarity for casual use, it might fall short for users who want higher magnification or more detailed views of distant celestial objects. Additionally, the tripod's stability has raised concerns, particularly for those who require more precise and steady setups. Serious stargazers or users interested in long-term durability may find the quality of materials insufficient, as the design prioritizes portability over robustness.

Specifications

  • Optical Design: The telescope features a refractor optical design for clear, crisp views of celestial and terrestrial objects.
  • Aperture: It has a 60mm aperture, providing good light-gathering capability for bright, sharp images.
  • Focal Length: The telescope has a 360mm focal length, suitable for beginner-level astronomy observations.
  • Magnification: It supports magnifications of 18x and 45x with the included eyepieces, and up to 142x with the Barlow lens.
  • Eyepieces: The telescope includes two eyepieces: a 20mm and an 8mm for different levels of magnification.
  • Barlow Lens: A 3x Barlow lens is included, allowing for higher magnification when needed.
  • Finderscope: A 5x24 finderscope is provided for easier targeting and alignment with objects in the sky.
  • Mount Type: It uses an Altazimuth mount, providing simple, manual control for easy adjustment of the viewing angle.
  • Tripod: The telescope includes a full-height, adjustable tripod for stability during use.
  • Weight: The telescope weighs 3.3 lbs, making it lightweight and easy to carry for travel or outdoor use.
  • Dimensions: The telescope's dimensions are 11″D x 9.1″W x 52″H, providing a compact design.
  • Focus Type: The telescope features manual focus adjustment for fine-tuning the clarity of objects being observed.
  • Power Source: It is powered by an adapter for consistent use, suitable for extended stargazing sessions.
  • Smartphone Adapter: A smartphone adapter is included for easy photo and video capture through the telescope's eyepiece.
  • Software: The telescope comes with free Starry Night software to help users identify celestial objects and navigate the night sky.
  • Included Accessories: The package includes the telescope, two eyepieces, a smartphone adapter, Bluetooth remote, finderscope, and padded backpack.
  • Build Material: The telescope's body is made of durable, lightweight plastic, making it suitable for casual outdoor use.
  • Target Audience: This telescope is designed for beginners, families, kids, and travelers who are interested in stargazing.
  • Usage Flexibility: It can be used for both celestial observations at night and terrestrial viewing during the day.

FAQ

The Celestron Travel Scope 60DX is designed with beginners in mind, featuring an easy-to-assemble tripod and user-friendly controls. Simply attach the telescope to the adjustable tripod, insert the eyepiece, and you’re ready to start stargazing. Its simplicity makes it ideal for those new to astronomy.

Yes, this telescope is suitable for both celestial and terrestrial observations. During the day, you can use it for spotting distant objects, while at night, it performs well for stargazing, offering clear views of the Moon, planets, and stars. Its 60mm aperture provides good clarity in both settings.

Yes, this portable telescope comes with a smartphone adapter, allowing you to easily attach your phone and capture photos or videos of the night sky. This makes it simple to share your astronomical experiences with others.

The Celestron Travel Scope 60DX offers magnification up to 142x with the right eyepieces and barlow lens. While it works well for casual stargazing, users looking for more detailed views of distant deep-space objects might find its magnification range somewhat limited.

This telescope is highly portable, weighing just 3.3 lbs and featuring a compact design. It comes with a padded backpack that fits the telescope and accessories, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want to take it on the go for stargazing adventures.

The Celestron Travel Scope 60DX includes a full-height, adjustable tripod. However, some users have reported that the tripod can be a bit unstable during extended use, especially if the telescope is adjusted to higher angles.

Yes, the telescope can be used for terrestrial observations, like spotting distant mountains or wildlife. Its 60mm aperture and the two included eyepieces allow for clear views at both short and long distances.

The telescope package includes the Celestron Travel Scope 60DX, two eyepieces (20mm and 8mm), a smartphone adapter, Bluetooth remote, a finderscope, and Starry Night software for celestial navigation. It also includes a padded backpack for easy transport.

Compared to other entry-level telescopes, the Celestron Travel Scope 60DX stands out for its portability, ease of use, and inclusion of a smartphone adapter. While it may not offer the highest magnification for deep-sky observations, it provides great value for beginners interested in both daytime and nighttime viewing.

While the Celestron Travel Scope 60DX is durable enough for casual outdoor use, its lightweight plastic build might not withstand extreme conditions or heavy handling. It is ideal for users who want a portable telescope for occasional use but may not be suited for frequent, rugged outdoor expeditions.