Sky-Watcher Startravel-80 (AZ3) 80mm 3.1-in F/5 Alt-Azimuth Telescope

Sky-Watcher Startravel-80 (AZ3) 80mm 3.1-in F/5 Alt-Azimuth Telescope Summary

The Sky-Watcher Startravel-80 (AZ3) 80mm 3.1-inch F/5 Alt-Azimuth Telescope is a versatile and portable optical instrument designed for astronomers who appreciate convenience without compromising on performance. With its compact design, the Startravel-80 is ideal for quick setup and easy use, making it a perfect choice for beginners, casual observers, or anyone looking for a highly portable telescope for terrestrial and astronomical viewing. Featuring an 80mm aperture and a fast F/5 focal ratio, this telescope provides wide-field views, offering users an excellent introduction to stargazing, as well as enjoyable observations of the moon, planets, and even some bright deep-sky objects.

1. Wide-Field Optics for a Bright and Clear View

The 80mm aperture of the Startravel-80 allows it to collect a considerable amount of light, offering bright and crisp images for its size. With an F/5 focal ratio, the telescope excels at providing wide-field views, which makes it ideal for observing larger astronomical objects like star clusters, the Milky Way, and large sections of the sky. The fast focal ratio also ensures quick focusing, making the Startravel-80 an excellent choice for observing fast-moving objects like the moon or planets, where high magnification is less critical compared to the ability to see the entire field of view.

2. User-Friendly Alt-Azimuth Mount (AZ3)

The Startravel-80 comes equipped with the AZ3 Alt-Azimuth mount, a simple yet highly functional mount that makes it easy to point and track objects in the night sky. The Alt-Azimuth mount operates on two axes: up/down (altitude) and left/right (azimuth), allowing users to move the telescope smoothly in any direction. This design is particularly easy to use for beginners or those who prefer a more intuitive, manual way of controlling the telescope. Unlike more complex equatorial mounts, the AZ3 mount is designed for straightforward movement, making it ideal for casual stargazing or daytime terrestrial observations.

3. Compact and Portable Design

One of the key selling points of the Startravel-80 is its portability. Weighing just a few kilograms and with a compact design, this telescope is easy to transport and set up. It can be taken on trips to dark-sky locations, parks, or even used in your backyard. The lightweight nature of the optical tube and mount ensures that stargazers of all ages can handle the setup process with ease. This makes the Startravel-80 a great option for those who want an astronomy telescope that won't be cumbersome to carry or store.

4. Perfect for Both Astronomy and Terrestrial Viewing

While primarily designed for astronomical observations, the Sky-Watcher Startravel-80 also excels in terrestrial or land-based viewing. The wide field of view and crisp optics make it a great choice for birdwatching, nature walks, or even casual daytime observations. Whether you're scanning the horizon for distant landmarks or observing the moon at night, the telescope provides clear and sharp images. The ability to switch between night sky and terrestrial observations makes this telescope versatile for multiple viewing purposes.

5. Complete Accessory Kit to Get Started

The Startravel-80 comes with essential accessories that make it easy to start observing right away. The package typically includes a 25mm and a 10mm eyepiece, offering two different magnifications for varying types of observations. The included 5x24 finderscope makes locating celestial objects or landmarks much easier, especially for beginners. A star diagonal is also included, ensuring an upright, correctly oriented image for comfortable viewing, especially during extended sessions. With these accessories, users can begin their stargazing journey immediately without needing to purchase additional equipment.