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The Orion Starblast line of telescopes offers a range of options to suit various needs and preferences. From the compact tabletop model to the larger, more powerful options, these telescopes are designed to provide a great viewing experience for both beginners and experienced stargazers.
In this article, we will take a closer look at each model in the Orion Starblast line and discuss their features, benefits, and potential drawbacks, to help you choose the best one for your needs.
Orion Starblast 4.5 Astro Reflector Telescope – Best for beginners and viewing brighter celestial objects
Orion StarBlast 4.5 Astro Reflector Telescope is a great option for beginners who are just starting to explore the night sky. It is one of the best Orion Starblast reflector telescopes.
It has a 4.5-inch parabolic primary mirror and a focal length of 450mm, which provides clear and detailed views of the moon, planets, and bright deep sky objects like star clusters and nebulae.
It is also compact and portable, making it easy to take on the go. Even though this telescope is great for entry-level astronomers, it is also loved by more experienced astronomers because of the quality of the optics, especially those on the lookout for a grab-and-go telescope. It does not require much setup time and maintenance.
The Orion StarBlast 4.5 Astro Reflector Telescope is a versatile telescope that can be used for a wide range of observing activities. Its affordable price tag makes it an accessible option for many beginner and intermediate astronomers.
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Orion Starblast 4.5 Astro Reflector Telescope max kit
The Orion Starblast 4.5 Astro Reflector Telescope Max Kit is a complete observing package that includes everything a beginner or intermediate astronomer needs to start exploring the night sky.
This kit is an upgraded version of the Orion Starblast 4.5 Astro Reflector Telescope and includes several additional accessories that enhance the telescope’s performance and usability.
It comes with everything you need to get started with your first telescope, including two eyepieces, EZ finder II reflex sight to enable you to aim easily, Star Target Planisphere, Barlow lens, and RedBeam flashlight.
Specifications of the Orion Starblast 4.5 Astro Reflector Telescope
- Optical design: Reflector
- Objective lens diameter: 114mm
- Focal length: 450mm
- Focal ratio: f/4.0
- Eyepieces: Explorer II 17.0mm,6.0mm (1.25″)
- Magnification (Included): 26x, 75x
- Lowest useful magnification: 16x
- Mount type: Dobsonian
- Length of optical tube:18.0 in.
Pros of the Orion Starblast 4.5 Astro Reflector Telescope
- Easy to use and set up
- Portable and lightweight
- Comes with a range of accessories
- Affordable price point
Cons of the Orion Starblast 4.5 Astro Reflector Telescope
- Limited to viewing brighter celestial objects due to smaller aperture
- Not suitable for astrophotography
Orion Starblast II 4.5 Equatorial Reflector Telescope – Best for viewing brighter deep sky objects
The Orion StarBlast II 4.5 EQ is a fantastic telescope that is perfect for families who are interested in exploring the universe from the comfort of their own backyard.
This petite telescope is packed with great optics, convenient portability, and easy-to-use operation, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced astronomers.
With its high-quality reflecting optics, the StarBlast II 4.5 EQ mount provides clear and bright views of everything from the Moon and planets to distant objects like star clusters and galaxies.
The focal length of 450mm and sizable 4.5 aperture ensures that you’ll be able to observe a wide range of celestial objects, and its wide-field design means you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the cosmos.
Specifications of the Orion Starblast II 4.5 Equatorial Reflector Telescope
- Optical design: Reflector
- Objective lens diameter:114mm
- Focal length: 450mm
- Focal ratio:f/4.0
- Eyepieces: Sirius Plossl 25.0mm,10.0mm (1.25″)
- Magnification (Included):18x, 45x
- Mount type: Equatorial mount
Pros of the Orion Starblast II 4.5 Equatorial Reflector Telescope
- Its equatorial mount allows for more precise tracking and better astrophotography capabilities
- Good for observing planets, the moon, and brighter deep space objects
- Comes with two eyepieces and a red dot finder
Cons of the Orion Starblast II 4.5 Equatorial Reflector Telescope
- Limited to viewing brighter deep sky objects due to smaller aperture
- Can be more challenging to set up and use due to the equatorial mount
Orion StarBlast 6i IntelliScope Reflector Telescope – Best for planetary and deep sky objects
The Orion StarBlast 6i IntelliScope Reflector Telescope is a clever tabletop telescope that offers an excellent way for both beginners and experienced stargazers to explore the wonders of the night sky.
With its push-to IntelliScope Computerized Object Locator, users can easily locate over 14,000 celestial objects without requiring prior knowledge of the night sky.
The telescope features a substantial 6″ aperture, which offers sharp and clear views of the Moon and bright planets such as Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn.
The 750mm focal length optics (f/5.0) provide contrast-rich views of brighter deep-sky objects such as orion nebula, galaxies, and sparkling star clusters.
The telescope’s compact design also offers great portability, making it easy to take on the go, weighing just 23.5 lbs.
The Orion StarBlast 6i also comes equipped with a range of accessories to enhance the user’s observing experience, including an IntelliScope Computerized Object Locator, 25mm and 10mm Sirius Plossl 1.25″ telescope eyepieces, an EZ Finder II aiming device, an eyepiece rack, and Starry Night software.
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Specifications of the Orion StarBlast 6i IntelliScope Reflector Telescope
- Optical design: Reflector
- Objective lens diameter:150mm
- Focal length: 750mm
- Focal ratio:f/5.0
- Eyepieces: Sirius Plossl 25.0mm,10.0mm (1.25″)
- Magnification (Included): 30x, 75x
- Mount type: Altazimuth
Pros of the Orion StarBlast 6i IntelliScope Reflector Telescope
- The 6-inch aperture provides excellent views of planets and deep-sky objects
- IntelliScope computerized object locator system makes finding and tracking celestial objects easier
Cons of the Orion StarBlast 6i IntelliScope Reflector Telescope
- More expensive than some other models
- Larger size and weight can make it less portable
Orion Starblast 80mm Autotracker Refractor Telescope – Best for viewing the moon and bright planets
The Orion StarBlast 80mm AutoTracker telescope is a compact refractor telescope designed for easy portability and convenience. With an 80mm aperture, this telescope can deliver sharp and clear views of the Moon, planets, brighter star clusters, and nebulas.
The StarBlast AutoTracker mount that comes with this telescope is motorized and has an easy-to-use tracking system that automatically follows the object you are observing. This allows you to focus on the details of the object without worrying about manually adjusting the telescope’s position.
The tabletop setup of the Orion StarBlast 80mm AutoTracker telescope is also very convenient, as it can be easily moved from one location to another.
The cell phone adapter bracket is a particularly useful accessory, as it allows you to attach your smartphone to the telescope and capture stunning images and videos of your observations.
The L-bracket with extension also provides a stable platform for mounting your camera, making astrophotography with this telescope easy and enjoyable.
Specifications of the Orion Starblast 80mm Autotracker Refractor Telescope
- Optical design: Refractor
- Objective lens diameter: 80mm
- Focal length: 400mm
- Focal ratio: f/5.0
- Magnification: 16x to 40x
- Mount type: Altazimuth with automatic tracking
Pros of the Orion Starblast 80mm Autotracker Refractor Telescope
- Compact and portable design
- AutoTracker mount allows for easy tracking and viewing
- Good for viewing the moon and bright planets
- Comes with two eyepieces and a red dot finder
Cons of the Orion Starblast 80mm Autotracker Refractor Telescope
- Limited to viewing brighter celestial objects due to smaller aperture
- Not suitable for astrophotography
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Orion Starblast 90mm az travel refractor telescope – Best all-purpose and travel telescope
The Orion Starblast 90mm AZ travel refractor telescope is a top-of-the-line instrument designed for both daytime and nighttime observation. Its compact size and detailed construction make it an ideal choice for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
This telescope comes with a sturdy tripod that can be easily adjusted to your preferred height and angle, ensuring stability and comfort during prolonged observation sessions.
The tripod and all accessories can be conveniently packed into a rugged carry case, allowing you to take your telescope with you wherever you go.
One of the highlights of this telescope is the inclusion of two Kellner eyepieces that offer 20x and 56x magnification.
Unlike the low-quality “H” eyepieces that are often included with other telescopes, these Kellner eyepieces deliver clear and crisp views of the objects you observe.
The Orion Starblast 90mm AZ travel refractor telescope features a smooth and easy-to-use focus knob, making it effortless to adjust the focus and zoom in on your desired object.
The refractor design also makes this telescope suitable for both terrestrial and celestial observation, allowing you to view landscapes, wildlife, and even the moon and planets with stunning clarity.
Furthermore, the telescope’s optics are fully coated, ensuring that you get a bright and sharp image every time you use it.
Orion StarBlast 90mm Altaz Travel Refractor Telescope Kit
The Orion StarBlast 90mm Altaz Travel Refractor Telescope Kit is a slightly different model from the Orion StarBlast 90mm Altaz. Designed for effortless portability, this quality 90mm achromatic refractor telescope comes equipped with a full-length stainless steel tripod and two-way pan head.
The tripod is easily adjustable and can reach a maximum height of 54.5″ with legs fully extended, ensuring a comfortable viewing experience no matter where you set up.
This exceptional telescope kit comes with a carry case complete with both shoulder and hand straps, making it easy to take on vacations or to use right from your own backyard.
The kit includes all of the accessories from the base model (10282), as well as an Orion Barlow Lens, an Orion RedBeam Mini LED Flashlight, and an Orion Star Target Planisphere, providing you with a complete viewing experience.
While slightly more expensive than the other model, the Orion StarBlast 90mm Altaz Travel Refractor Telescope Kit is well worth the investment.
With its exceptional quality, portability, and range of accessories, this telescope kit will surely provide you with countless hours of astronomical wonder and discovery.
Specifications of the Orion Starblast 90mm az
- Optical design: Refractor
- Objective lens diameter: 90mm
- Focal length: 500mm
- Focal ratio: f/5.9
- Magnification: 18x to 166x
- Mount Type: Altazimuth
Pros of the Orion StarBlast 90mm Altaz
- Lightweight and compact
- Portable and easy to set up
- Good quality optics for its size
- Versatile and suitable for various celestial objects
- Comes with a sturdy tripod
Cons of the Orion StarBlast 90mm Altaz
- Limited aperture size may not provide optimal views of faint deep sky objects
- Altazimuth mount may require frequent adjustments for tracking
Orion StarBlast 102mm Altazimuth Travel Refractor Telescope – Best for lunar and terrestrial observation
Orion StarBlast 102mm Altazimuth Travel Refractor Telescope is an impressive piece of equipment with 28% more light-gathering power than the 90mm model. Its ability to provide high-resolution views of both celestial objects and terrestrial landscapes makes it an ideal choice for amateur astronomers and families on the go.
The 102mm (4″) achromatic lens system is fully multi-coated and has a 600mm focal length (f/5.9), ensuring vivid and detailed images of far-off subjects. This telescope is perfect for observing the Moon’s surface, Saturn’s rings, Jupiter’s cloud bands, and many deep-sky nebulas and star clusters.
The 1.25″ rack-and-pinion focuser guarantees that your target will be in sharp focus.
To help you locate objects of interest, this telescope comes with a red-dot finder scope. The tripod is constructed with durable stainless steel and features a two-axis pan head for smooth and precise control.
The telescope’s accessories and the tripod can be conveniently stored inside a rugged carrying case with a small zippered accessory pouch for safekeeping. This case has both hand and shoulder straps, making it easy to take the telescope anywhere.
The Orion StarBlast 102mm Travel Refractor Kit
The Orion StarBlast 102mm Travel Refractor Kit is the perfect telescope for anyone seeking high-quality views of the night sky or terrestrial landscapes. This version includes a full-length stainless steel tripod with a two-way pan head and a range of excellent accessories that fit snugly into a durable carry case for convenient transport and storage.
Even though it is more expensive than its counterpart, the included accessories more than makeup for it.
To take your viewing experience to the next level, the StarBlast 102mm Travel Refractor Kit comes with a Shorty 2x Barlow Lens, Orion RedBeam Mini LED Flashlight, Orion Star Target Planisphere, and the 174-page Orion Telescope Observer’s Guide.
These accessories, combined with the included 25mm (24x) and 10mm (60x) Plossl eyepieces and the red-dot finder scope, enable you to easily locate and view your desired targets with incredible clarity and detail.
With its fully multi-coated 102mm (4″) achromatic refractor lens system, this telescope provides vivid, detailed images of celestial objects such as the Moon’s surface, Saturn’s rings, Jupiter’s cloud bands, and many deep-sky nebulas and star clusters.
Specifications of the Orion StarBlast 102mm Altazimuth telescope
- Optical design: Refractor
- Objective lens diameter:102mm
- Focal length: 600mm
- Focal ratio:f/5.9
- Eyepieces: Plossl 25.0mm,10.0mm (1.25″)
- Magnification (Included):24x, 60x
- Mount type: Altazimuth
Pros of the Orion StarBlast 102mm Altazimuth telescope
- High-quality optics for crisp and clear images
- Easy to transport and store
- Comes with a range of accessories for enhanced viewing experience
- Includes a guide to help identify celestial objects
- Sturdy and durable build
Cons of the Orion StarBlast 102mm Altazimuth telescope
- More expensive than some other beginner telescopes
- Limited magnification capabilities compared to larger telescopes
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Orion Starblast 114mm AutoTracker Reflector Telescope – Best for family use
The Orion StarBlast 114mm AutoTracker Reflector Telescope is a portable and versatile telescope that offers great views of the Moon, planets, nebulas, and star clusters. The AutoTracker mount uses motorized tracking to keep objects in view, making it easier for beginners to use.
The telescope comes with a variety of accessories including two eyepieces, a reflex sight, a cell phone adapter bracket, and an L-bracket with extension.
The Orion StarBlast 114mm AutoTracker Reflector Telescope offers a convenient and powerful setup for anyone looking to explore the wonders of the night sky.
The package also includes two eyepieces and a red dot finder for easier targeting. Its sturdy build and relatively lightweight make it easy to transport for family outings.
Specifications of the Orion Starblast 114mm AutoTracker Reflector Telescope
- Optical design: Reflector
- Objective lens diameter: 114mm
- Focal Length: 500mm
- Focal Ratio: f/4.4
- Magnification: 19x to 56x
- Mount Type: Altazimuth with automatic tracking
Pros of the Orion Starblast 114mm AutoTracker Reflector Telescope
- Easy to set up and use
- Good quality optics for its size
- AutoTracker mount allows for easy tracking
- Suitable for family use
Cons of the Orion Starblast 114mm AutoTracker Reflector Telescope
- Limited aperture size may not provide optimal views of faint deep sky objects
- AutoTracker mount may require frequent calibration and adjustments
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FAQs about Orion Starblast Telescopes
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Orion StarBlast telescopes:
What can I view with the Orion StarBlast telescope?
With the Orion StarBlast telescope, you can view a wide range of celestial objects, including the moon, planets, and deep sky objects. This telescope performs well when it comes to viewing these objects.
What is the best Orion Starblast Focuser Adapter?
The SVBONY Telescope Accessories Focuser Adapter is a high-quality adapter designed to connect a 1.25-inch eyepiece to a telescope with an M42x0.75mm thread.
This focuser adapter is a great choice for the Orion StarBlast telescope, which has a 1.25-inch focuser. StarBlast owners can expand their viewing options by using a wider variety of 1.25-inch eyepieces with their telescope.
The Orion 13039 2-Inch Crayford-Style Telescope Focuser provides ultra-smooth, backlash-free focusing for 2″ and 1.25″ eyepieces and accessories, making it a great upgrade for your Orion StarBlast telescope.
What can you see through an Orion StarBlast 2 telescope?
The Orion StarBlast 2 telescope comes with good optical quality that will enable you to view the phases of Mercury and Venus. You can also see the cloud belts of Jupiter, the Great Red Spot, and the 4 large moons.
What size is the Orion StarBlast 6?
The Orion StarBlast 6 has a 150mm (5.9 inches) aperture and a focal length of 750mm, providing a focal ratio of f/5. This makes it a great choice for observing deep sky objects such as galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters, as well as planets and the moon.
Which Orion telescopes are no longer available?
Orion has discontinued several telescope models over the years. Some popular models that are no longer available include the Orion SkyView Pro 8, and Orion Sirius ED80 EQ-G Computerized GoTo Refractor telescope.
However, Orion regularly updates its product line and introduces new telescope models to meet the needs of amateur astronomers.
What is the best Orion Starblast 6 solar filter?
The best solar filter for the Orion StarBlast 6 would depend on the specific needs of the observer.
Some popular solar filters that fit the Orion StarBlast 6 include
- Thousand Oaks Optical Glass Solar Filter is a high-quality solar filter made of optical glass that provides clear and sharp views of the sun while blocking harmful UV and infrared rays.
- Baader AstroSolar Film Solar Filter is a film-based solar filter that is highly durable and easy to use, providing safe observation of the sun.
- Orion Safety Film Solar Filter is a budget-friendly option for safe solar viewing, made of high-quality safety film that provides clear and natural color views of the sun.
It’s important to ensure that any solar filter used with the telescope is of high quality and is properly installed to protect the observer’s eyes and equipment.
Orion SkyQuest XT4.5 vs StarBlast 4.5, what are the key differences?
The SkyQuest XT4.5 has a larger aperture at 114mm compared to the StarBlast 4.5’s 114mm aperture, which means the XT4.5 can gather more light and provide brighter, sharper images.
The XT4.5 is also on a Dobsonian mount, which is more stable and easier to use for manual tracking than the StarBlast’s tabletop altazimuth mount.
However, the StarBlast 4.5 is more compact and portable, making it a better option for those who want to take their telescope on the go.
What are the best Orion StarBlast 4.5EQ lenses?
Some popular lens options for the StarBlast 4.5EQ include the Celestron X-Cel LX Series Eyepieces, which are designed for high magnification and detailed views of planets and the moon.
Also, TeleVue Nagler eyepieces are known for their high-quality optics and wide fields of view, making them a popular choice among amateur astronomers.
The best lenses for the StarBlast 4.5EQ will depend on the observer’s specific needs and preferences.
Is Orion Starblast 4.5 good for astrophotography?
While the Orion StarBlast 4.5 is a good entry-level reflector telescope for visual observations of the night sky, it may not be the best choice for astrophotography due to its limited aperture and lack of tracking capability when viewing astronomical objects.
Astrophotography requires a telescope with a larger aperture and a motorized mount that can track objects across the sky.
While some basic astrophotography can be achieved with the StarBlast 4.5, more advanced imaging will likely require upgrading to a larger telescope with better tracking capabilities.
Is Orion Starblast Autotracker Altazimuth Mount any good?
The Orion StarBlast AutoTracker Altazimuth Mount is a compact and portable motorized mount that provides automatic tracking of celestial objects. Once aligned, the mount’s motors will rotate the attached telescope to keep objects centered in the eyepiece, eliminating the need for manual tracking.
The AutoTracker Mount is compatible with a variety of small telescopes, weighing up to 7.7 lbs, and features a dovetail attachment saddle for easy mounting.
The mount has camera cruising functionality and comes with a Canon shutter release cable, allowing for automatic time-lapse photos and panoramics. This makes the StarBlast AutoTracker Mount a great choice for astronomy enthusiasts looking for a hassle-free observing experience.
Takeaway: Enjoy the wonders of the night sky with Orion Starblast Telescopes
The Orion Starblast series of telescopes is a great choice for beginners, kids, and families who are interested in exploring the night sky.
Whether you’re looking to view bright celestial objects like the moon and planets or delve deeper into the cosmos with deep sky objects, there’s a Starblast model that can fit your needs.
The Orion Starblast 4.5 Astro Reflector Telescope is an excellent choice for beginners who want a basic setup, while the Orion Starblast II 4.5 Equatorial Reflector Telescope is perfect for those who want to focus on planetary and bright deep sky objects.
The Orion Starblast 6i IntelliScope is a great option for those who want to take their exploration to the next level and explore deep sky objects, and the Orion Starblast 80mm Autotracker is ideal for those who want to view the moon and bright planets.
For those who want a travel telescope, the Orion Starblast 90mm AZ Travel Refractor Telescope is the way to go, while Orion Starblast 102mm is best for lunar and terrestrial observation.
The Orion Starblast 114mm AutoTracker Reflector Telescope is an excellent choice for family use and can provide hours of viewing enjoyment for everyone.
The Orion Starblast series offers a range of telescopes that are easy to use, portable, and affordable. With the right accessories and a little bit of practice, anyone can enjoy the wonders of the night sky with these telescopes.
If you’re a seasoned astronomer or just starting out, consider adding an Orion Starblast telescope to your collection and start exploring the dark sky today!
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