Sky-Watcher StarTravel 120mm f/5 AZ3 Refractor Telescope

Much less hassle than computerized reflex scopes. Not as much magnification, but good enough for looking at planets. Lightweight, quick to move. My teen daughter uses it often and does not need help. Computerized are nice on paper, but heavier, have connectivity and app issues. This one is also inexpensive.

Received yesterday, well packed box within box. This is not my first telescope so this review is based on my previous telescopes experiences. Bought it as something light and portable to stargaze on the fly.This is a achromat (two lenses)120mm aperture, 600mm focal lengh F5 with total tube lengh of 25", weighing 6.5lbs. Intended as an entry level telescope.Assembly was a no brainer straight fwd. Mind the tube rings need to be loosen somewhat to align w base. All hardware was included and in good condition. The Skywatcher 120 comes w a 1.25" erecting prism (shows right side up, see picture) while advantageous for first timers I recommend upgrade to the standard 90° diagonal (see pictures). The included eyepieces are a 20mm (shown) and a 10mm. The included finderscope is a red dot finder. Installation and alignment was straight fwd, just follow the manual instructions.The focusing knob has some resistance to it but ok for my taste. Noticed a small play in the draw tube that I fixed by adjusting the small set screws on top of the focuser (see picture) w a 1.5mm allen wrench. These put pressure in a small metal bar (see picture) on top of the draw tube. Caution! These are not supposed to be tight, just enough so there is no play in the draw tube.Observed the Moon, Saturn, the double star Mizar in the Big Dipper and he Double Cluster in the constellation of Perseus. I was surprised by the sharpness of the views w the included 20mm. My best views were with my 24-8mm zoom eyepiece and 90° star diagonal. I do recommend the Omegon Magnum 8-24mm zoom eyepice (find it in Amazon) or similar.While the telescope mount is a basic entry level accounting for 27% of the cost of the telescope, this too can be upgraded to a GoTo mount such as the Skywatcher Star-Adventurer GTI when you are ready.Overall I'm satisfied with the value for the money and very happy with the sharpness of the views. Mind use good quality 10mm to 6mm eyepieces for bigger images.Hope you find this review useful.Clear skies.

Purchased from Amazon Warehouse (used). Item was in good condition as described. Very pleased. Only possible negative (which did not affect me) was that the price jumped up significantly soon after my purchase. The telescope is not especially light, but I do like the larger 120 mm lens especially since I'm in the city so it should gather more light than the 102mm version. Probably would recommend upgraded eyepieces (I already have purchased a new one from Amazon, considering another) but what it comes with is a nice starter.

Okay, I have been using this telescope a few months now. I like the light weight and I can easily set the telescope up. The clarity has issues. I did buy another diagonal, expensive eyepieces, light filters, and the image improved some but I still can not see Jupiter with clarity. I do not believe it has the the ability to see nebula's because all I see is grainy dark when trying so maybe the focus is the issue. However, being my first scope it has been great to learn with learning planets and constellations. During daytime I could see the eye of a bird and bees on a branch several blocks away so it would make a great bird scope.

very well made and easy to use.

This telescope is very overpriced. Impossible to get a clear view. I’ve tried many lenses and it doesn’t help. It is far to awkward to consider it for travel. Save your money or buy a different brand.

Just excellent seller and skywatcher startravel. Crisp images provent in day time until 150X for the moment.

I know reflectors are the end-all, be-all of recommendations when it comes to telescopes, but this unit (and the 102mm) is just good and easy. No need for pesky collimating. I feel this is a good starter scope for the average Joe or Jane. It’s easy to assemble and easy to use. I also feel the IQ is good for the backyard viewer. I feel you can upgrade certain things as needed. I plan on getting an automatic mount and a camera.(I used to own the 102mm but had to sell it to pay bills. I really enjoyed it)I bought a 90* attachment for this unit and I will buy some other eyepieces.I feel this is a great family scope for viewing the moon and planets. It won’t disappoint!