This is a very nice, high end beginner scope. For those who complain about having to use it in the cold, or the SkyAlign not working really need to take a look at themselves. When the sky is clearest, it is winter. The SkyAlign works great if you get the scope set up properly and take the time to use the alignment. If you are looking for the best scope for the money and you are just starting out or need to get a smaller scope for certain things, this would be the one to get.

Great scope for the money, very easy to use and great optics. Highly recommended.

My entire family loves this telescope and we have had hours of fun, quality time using it together. None of us knew anything about astronomy before, but it has been very easy to use and is a nice balance as a mid-range telescope for the price-- it's sophisticated but not so much that we're afraid to use it!

Don't know much about computers or the stars, but I got this to work first time out. If I can do it, anyone can!

I received this scope as a birthday gift from my father. I know little to nothing about astronomy, other than what I have read on the Optics Planet forums and articles. I can say that this scope was easy to use. The instructions were clear and the setup was easy. I can see how the alignment process will only get quicker ans easier with time and practice. I would recommend this scope to any beginner or intermediate backyard astronomer.