Review for Bushnell Voyager 100x4.5" Compact Reflector Telescope 782010

Author: tkunioka from Rosemead CA on Jun 2, 2008
Pros:  just what it says in the title
Cons:  can't use on objects low to the horizon, hard to point
Would recommend:  yes

tkunioka wrote:

This little telescope serves as a sort of replacement for 80-100mm binoculars. It delivers a nice wide view of the heavens in an extremely portable package. At low power, the stars focus nicely and the view is pleasing (especially if you have a moderate-quality plossl of your own). The spherical (as opposed to parabolic) shape of the primary mirror does not become a significant factor at low magnifications. I've never bothered with higher powers because that would defeat the purpose of a telescope like this one. You want a telescope like this to scan the Milky Way and view things like M31 or (in 2007-2008) Comet Holmes last year. Besides, if you boost the power the view gets narrower. And finding objects is already going to be difficult. Because of the shape of the telescope, it's hard to sight down the tube as you would with a traditional refractor. Some people end up attaching a red dot finder to aid with the pointing. (I should say, in defense of this telescope, that I've used other cheap, entry-level Newtonians that were even harder to point accurately--their fields of view were much narrower). Even at the lowest power, you should be able to make out Jupiter's moons and Saturn's rings. Nothing earth-shattering, but you'll still be able to see them for yourself. The view is improved if you have a modest-quality plossl of your own (something with a focal length around 26-32mm). But don't use anything long or heavy. If you do, the tube will start tipping over as soon as you look at anything below about forty-five degrees above the horizon (At least if you're using the bowl/base it comes with). Even with a lighter eyepiece, the telescope will start start tipping over once you get much below that. Overall, this telescope can be a real value, as long as you keep your expectations in line with the telescope's design. If you want to view anything beyond the brightest of deep-sky objects, or if you want high-magnification views of the heavens, buy something else.