Overview

The SOLOMARK 80900 Professional Refractor Telescope 80mm Aperture offers an excellent starting point for those new to astronomy. This 80mm aperture ensures bright and clear views, making it easy to spot celestial objects like the moon and planets. Ideal for beginner astronomers and those looking to dive into stargazing, this telescope is lightweight and portable. It comes with a convenient carrying bag, making transport simple. Whether you're exploring the skies or simply observing your surroundings, it offers a versatile experience for both land and sky observation.

Features & Benefits

This 80mm refractor features fully coated optics that reduce light reflection, enhancing the clarity of your images. With a 900mm focal length, it provides a solid balance of magnification for beginners. The telescope comes with a stable azimuth mount and an adjustable tripod, ensuring smooth, easy movement when aligning the telescope. It also includes a phone adapter for quick astrophotography, allowing you to capture stunning images of the stars and planets. Assembly is straightforward, with clear instructions provided, so you can set it up with ease.

Best For

This telescope is perfect for beginners who are looking for an affordable yet capable option to explore the night sky. It suits amateur astronomers who want a portable telescope that's easy to transport and set up for quick observation. Families and kids will enjoy the simplicity and ease of use, especially for casual stargazing or lunar observations. If you're interested in learning about astronomy or sharing it with younger enthusiasts, this beginner telescope is an ideal choice for hands-on exploration.

User Feedback

Users consistently praise this SOLOMARK telescope for its ease of setup and simplicity, which makes it a great option for first-time telescope owners. The bright, clear images of the moon and nearby planets are often highlighted. However, some users mention that the magnification could be limiting for deep-sky observation, making it less suitable for advanced astronomers. Despite this, the included carrying case and phone adapter are frequently appreciated, making it an excellent value for casual use and astrophotography.

Pros

  • Easy to set up, ideal for beginners with clear assembly instructions.
  • Compact and lightweight, making it perfect for on-the-go stargazing.
  • Provides bright and clear views of the moon and planets, even for newcomers.
  • Includes a phone adapter, simplifying astrophotography for casual users.
  • Affordable option for those looking to enter astronomy without breaking the bank.
  • Versatile for both land and sky observation, offering a well-rounded experience.

Cons

  • Limited magnification (45X to 90X) may not satisfy users looking for deep-sky observation.
  • Construction feels lightweight, which could be less durable for frequent outdoor use.
  • The azimuth mount may not be as stable as other, more robust telescope mounts.
  • No advanced features for users interested in higher-end astrophotography.
  • Users report the finderscope can be a bit tricky to align properly for first-timers.
  • Not the best choice for serious astronomers seeking high-performance equipment.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide, including various languages and platforms, the scores for the SOLOMARK 80900 Professional Refractor Telescope 80mm Aperture reflect a combination of strengths and pain points. We filtered out spam, bot, incentivized, duplicated, and off-topic reviews to ensure that only authentic, high-quality feedback contributed to these results. While this device receives praise for its ease of use and portability, some users mentioned limitations in magnification for deep-sky viewing.

Ease of Setup
92%
Users consistently praise the quick and simple assembly process of this telescope. The included instructions are clear, making it especially accessible for beginners or those new to astronomy. Many mention that the lightweight design and the carrying bag add convenience for easy transportation and setup in various locations.
While most find the setup process straightforward, a few users feel the instructions could be more detailed for absolute beginners. A small group also noted that the tripod could feel slightly unstable when adjusting the height or when used in windy conditions.
Image Clarity
88%
The 80mm aperture and fully coated optics work together to provide clear and bright images, especially for lunar and planetary views. Many users report being impressed with the level of detail visible through the eyepiece, even at moderate magnifications. It delivers solid performance for casual stargazing and beginner astrophotography.
While the clarity is generally praised, some users have expressed that the telescope struggles with finer details on deeper celestial objects, such as distant galaxies or nebulae. The magnification is somewhat limited, which can be a drawback for those seeking to observe faint deep-sky objects.
Portability
94%
The lightweight design and compact size of this telescope make it perfect for easy transport. Buyers love how effortless it is to pack it up in the included carrying bag and take it on trips or outings. Its portable nature is often highlighted as a key benefit, making it ideal for casual stargazing in different locations, from backyards to camping trips.
Some users wish the tripod were a bit sturdier for more secure placement, especially on uneven surfaces. While the telescope is portable, the larger size can still be cumbersome for smaller vehicles or when traveling with a lot of other gear.
Phone Adapter for Astrophotography
85%
The inclusion of a phone adapter has received positive feedback, allowing users to easily take pictures of the moon, planets, and other celestial objects. It provides a simple way to get started with astrophotography without the need for expensive camera equipment. Many enjoy capturing their observations and sharing them with friends or social media.
However, some buyers found the phone adapter to be slightly tricky to align correctly, especially for users with larger smartphones. A few also mentioned that the adapter's design could be improved for more stable attachment, which might help with clearer photos during longer exposures.
Build Quality
80%
20%
The telescope's build quality is generally solid for its price range. The adjustable aluminum tripod is functional and stable enough for most users' needs. The refractor design also ensures that the device is relatively durable, especially considering its lightweight and affordable nature.
Some users have reported that certain components, like the mount or tripod, feel somewhat flimsy compared to higher-end models. A few also mention that the plastic parts, though lightweight, may not hold up as well in the long run, particularly if the telescope is frequently transported or stored improperly.
Magnification for Deep-Sky Viewing
60%
40%
While the telescope offers good magnification for lunar and planetary views, users note that it is still a solid option for beginners looking to get familiar with the night sky. It’s a good tool for observing the moon’s surface and brighter planets, such as Jupiter and Saturn, in impressive detail.
For those looking to explore deep-sky objects like galaxies or nebulae, the telescope's 45X to 90X magnification may feel limiting. Some users mentioned that the lack of higher magnification or advanced features might deter enthusiasts who want to take their astrophotography or stargazing to a more serious level.
Instructions and Assembly
90%
The assembly process is widely praised for being quick and simple. The instructions provided are clear and easy to follow, which makes the telescope a great option for beginners. Many users appreciate that it doesn't require advanced knowledge to get started and that the setup can be completed in a short time.
Although the instructions are clear, a small number of users found the assembly to be slightly more difficult when handling the tripod, which can be tricky to stabilize on uneven terrain. Some reviewers suggested adding clearer tips for beginners on how to best set up the telescope for optimal use.
Value for Money
92%
At its price point, this telescope offers great value for beginner astronomers. Users find it an affordable option that doesn’t compromise too much on quality. Many feel that the combination of performance, portability, and included accessories makes it an excellent entry-level choice without breaking the bank.
While most users agree it offers great value, a few believe that the telescope could benefit from better build quality in some areas. Additionally, there are those who feel that the magnification capabilities could be improved for more serious astronomy enthusiasts, but these are minor trade-offs for the price.
Stability of Mount
79%
21%
The azimuth mount provides decent stability for observing the moon and brighter planets. Many users appreciate that it’s easy to use and adjust. The mount is also praised for being beginner-friendly and simple to operate during casual stargazing sessions.
A few users have mentioned that the mount could be sturdier, especially when used at higher magnifications. Some also find it less stable on uneven surfaces, which can make it harder to track objects smoothly. The lack of fine adjustments for precision might also be a drawback for some users.
Size and Weight
86%
The compact size and relatively light weight of the telescope make it ideal for easy transport and storage. Users appreciate that it’s lightweight enough for kids and beginners to handle without feeling overwhelmed. It’s also easy to carry and pack for family outings or trips.
Despite being portable, a few buyers have noted that it can still feel bulky when packed with other gear. While the lightweight design is beneficial, it can sometimes affect the overall stability, especially if the tripod isn’t set up properly.
Durability Over Time
75%
25%
For its price, the durability is generally good, and most users report that it holds up well for casual use. The refractor design is straightforward and doesn’t require too much maintenance, which is appreciated by those new to telescopes.
Some users have mentioned concerns about the longevity of the plastic components, especially when frequently transported or stored. A few reported that after several months of use, certain parts started to feel looser or less stable, particularly the tripod and mount.
Compatibility with Accessories
83%
The telescope is compatible with a variety of accessories, including the included phone adapter for astrophotography. Many users enjoy the ability to attach a smartphone for easy picture-taking, which is a great feature for beginners trying to capture their observations.
However, some users mentioned that the adapter could be difficult to align with larger smartphones. Additionally, a few felt that the scope could benefit from more compatibility with other higher-end accessories, such as specialized eyepieces or camera adapters for more advanced users.

Suitable for:

The SOLOMARK 80900 Professional Refractor Telescope 80mm Aperture is an excellent choice for astronomy beginners and casual stargazers. With its easy assembly and user-friendly design, it's particularly suited for families, kids, or anyone just starting their journey into the world of astronomy. Its compact size and lightweight nature make it perfect for those who want to take it on the go, whether for camping trips or backyard observations. Amateur astronomers or hobbyists looking for a portable and affordable telescope will appreciate the bright, clear images of the moon and planets, along with the included phone adapter for simple astrophotography.

Not suitable for:

However, this telescope may not be ideal for experienced astronomers or those seeking to dive into more advanced deep-sky observation. While it provides satisfactory views of the moon and planets, its limited magnification (45X to 90X) is a drawback for users interested in observing distant galaxies or nebulae with more detail. Additionally, while the construction is good for casual use, those who prioritize high-end, durable materials or need a more robust mount for stability may find this telescope lacking. Users looking for a telescope that offers higher magnification or specialized features for astrophotography may need to explore more advanced models.

Specifications

  • Aperture: The telescope features an 80mm aperture, allowing for clear and bright views of celestial objects.
  • Optical Design: The design follows a refractor optical system for high-quality, bright images with minimal light distortion.
  • Focal Length: It has a focal length of 900mm, which provides a balance between magnification and field of view.
  • Magnification: The telescope offers two eyepiece magnifications: 45X and 90X, suitable for lunar and planetary observation.
  • Mount Type: It comes with a stable azimuth mount, which is easy to control and provides smooth horizontal movement.
  • Tripod: The telescope includes an adjustable aluminum tripod, which provides a sturdy and customizable base for observation.
  • Finderscope: A 5x24 finderscope is included, helping to easily locate objects in the sky.
  • Phone Adapter: The telescope comes with a phone adapter, allowing users to capture astrophotography directly through their smartphone.
  • Assembly: Assembly is quick and straightforward, with clear instructions to guide users through setup.
  • Weight: The telescope weighs 9.88 pounds, making it relatively portable for outdoor use and travel.
  • Dimensions: The product dimensions are 39.37 x 15.75 x 59.06 inches, which is compact enough for storage and transportation.
  • Optical Coating: Fully coated optics reduce light reflection, improving image clarity and contrast during observation.
  • Intended Use: Designed for beginners and casual astronomers, this telescope is ideal for stargazing and lunar observation.
  • Portability: The telescope is portable and comes with a carrying bag for easy transportation and outdoor use.
  • Assembly Time: Users report quick setup time, with assembly taking just a few minutes.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with most smartphones for astrophotography, thanks to the included phone adapter.

FAQ

Setting up this telescope is straightforward, even for beginners. The assembly process is quick, thanks to the clear instructions included, and all necessary components, like the adjustable tripod and azimuth mount, are provided. With minimal effort, you'll be ready for your first stargazing session.

Yes, this telescope is designed for both land and sky observation. Its 80mm aperture delivers bright, clear images of distant objects, whether you're scanning the night sky or observing landscapes. The versatile design ensures it performs well for a range of casual viewing experiences.

The included phone adapter allows you to easily attach your smartphone to the telescope’s eyepiece for astrophotography. This feature makes it simple to capture images of the moon and planets, even for beginners, without needing additional equipment.

This 80mm refractor offers two eyepiece magnifications: 45X and 90X. While these magnifications are great for viewing the moon and planets, they may be limited for detailed deep-sky observation, which requires higher magnification or more specialized equipment.

The adjustable aluminum tripod is stable for casual outdoor use, but it may not be as robust as higher-end tripods. For more frequent use in windy or challenging conditions, you might want to consider a heavier-duty tripod for better stability.

This telescope is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry and set up for outdoor stargazing sessions. The included carrying bag adds to its portability, ensuring that you can take it with you on trips or to different observation spots with minimal hassle.

Yes, the fully coated optics and 80mm aperture enhance light-gathering ability, resulting in clearer and brighter images. Users consistently report sharp views of the moon and nearby planets, with minimal light reflection during observation.

For advanced astronomers, this telescope may fall short due to its limited magnification (45X and 90X). It's not ideal for deep-sky observation or more detailed views of distant galaxies. Additionally, the azimuth mount may lack the precision needed for high-level astrophotography.

While this telescope is suitable for casual use, its construction is not designed for heavy-duty, long-term outdoor conditions. The materials feel lightweight, so it may not withstand rough handling or harsh weather as well as more premium models.

Yes, this telescope is ideal for families and kids who are interested in astronomy. Its simple setup, bright views, and easy-to-understand instructions make it a great tool for introducing young stargazers to the wonders of space exploration.