Reviews - Celestron 90mm Maksutov Spotting Scope Telescope Package 52268-OP - 90 Spotting Scope w/Tripod 93606 Reviews - CI-SS-52268-OP

Author: JasonH (verified customer) from Seattle, WA. on Nov 12, 2009
Pros:  optics, build quality
Cons:  tripod (even though its basically free)
Would recommend:  yes

JasonH wrote:

Been playing with this scope for a couple months now... As noted by the previous reviewer, VERY sharp optics. With good seeing was able to go over 200x (6mm eyepiece) on the moon and Jupiter with no problems. I also like the fact that this does not have that goofy internal flip mirror. Build quality is very good seems very sturdy. I also like the finder...seems much higher quality than other scopes in this price range. The lens coatings are greenish tint as opposed to many that slightly bluish, or violet. I'm not sure what that means chemically but it seems to do the job well. Focus knob is a little sticky. Overall, you get more than you pay for with this scope. PS - Obviously, the tripod is cheap and not meant for astronomy.

Author: Ken (verified customer) , Various telescope owner of over 40 years., from Marksville, LA on Oct 14, 2009
Pros:  outstanding optics, super price, portable, powerful
Cons:  poor quality finder (junk)
Would recommend:  yes

Ken wrote:

I have owned several hundred telescopes in my lifetime, I run a telescope machining business, "Ken's Rings"...(I can only speak for the sample that I received) I have to say that the new black version Mak C-90 (1250mm FL) is a big jump over the older model C-90 (no rear window to distort images)...reminds me of an industrial model scope ...I'de say it's worth 400 bucks or more ... the optics are almost as good as my WO 90 APO in a side to side compairsion... will beat my AT80 APO on the planets... I've tested it to up to 300 power on the moon with no image breakdown...Practable use for double stars and planets to 160 to 200 power is very impressive. I am very impressed...this one is a keeper for me. I am using it on the new Porta 2 mount as my new easy take out scope. The mount will support this rock solid up to 150 power...good enough for me.