The Celestron Inspire 100AZ refractor telescope is currently available at its lowest price this year, making it an ideal time to enter the world of amateur astronomy. Expert astrophotographer Josh Dury recommends this telescope as an excellent choice for beginners, and it’s currently discounted to $273.59 on Amazon, a significant drop from its usual $379 price point.
Why This Telescope Stands Out
This isn’t a toy. The Celestron Inspire 100AZ delivers a genuine, high-quality stargazing experience without the frustrating complexity often associated with amateur astronomy. Its straightforward assembly, user-friendly design, and robust build quality mean impressive views of the moon and planets right out of the box. The telescope is lightweight enough for comfortable handling, even for younger users, making it a versatile option for both backyard stargazing and travel to darker skies.
Current Deals & Price History
Amazon is currently offering a 20% discount on the telescope, plus an additional $30 coupon that may expire soon. Based on historical data, this is the lowest price recorded for the Celestron Inspire 100AZ – it typically fluctuates around $379, with occasional drops to $298. Other retailers like Walmart ($379.95) and Best Buy ($305.99) list the telescope at higher prices.
Key Specs & Features
- Aperture: 3.94 inches (100 mm)
- Focal Length: 25.98 inches (660 mm)
- Focal Ratio: f/6.5
- Included Eyepieces: 20mm and 10mm
- Smartphone Adapter: Allows for easy astrophotography
- Red LED Flashlight: Preserves night vision
- Software Access: Celestron Starry Night Astronomy Software & SkyPortal app
Launched in August 2016, this model has earned a 4 out of 5-star rating from Live Science and a 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon (with 70% of reviewers giving it a perfect 5-star rating).
Who Should Buy This Telescope?
This telescope is ideal for beginners, casual stargazers, or those looking for a portable and user-friendly option. It excels at viewing planets and the moon and provides an accessible entry point into astronomy.
Don’t buy it if : You’re an experienced telescope user seeking deep-space observation capabilities. For that, a more advanced model like the Celestron Nextar 8SE would be necessary.
The Celestron Inspire 100AZ is a well-made, beginner-friendly telescope that delivers quality views without unnecessary complexity. Its current discounted price makes it an excellent opportunity for anyone looking to explore the cosmos.
