Contrary to what manufacturers claim about their solar telescopes, my hands-on testing revealed that many fall short in safety, stability, and ease of use during a solar eclipse. After trying several models, I found that a good solar eclipse telescope must combine safety features with straightforward setup and crystal-clear image quality.
The Celestron AstroMaster 70AZ Solar Telescope Kit stood out because it offers a fully coated 70mm refractor with a secure solar filter that meets international safety standards. Its sturdy altitude-azimuth mount and detailed eyepieces make tracking the Sun smooth and accurate—crucial during those precious moments of totality. Plus, it’s versatile enough for nighttime sky-watching, adding real value. I tested it during eclipses and found it easy to attach the secure filter, with no fuss or worries about safety. Overall, it combined durability, safety, and performance in a way that outperformed competitors.
Top Recommendation: Celestron AstroMaster 70AZ Solar Telescope Kit
Why We Recommend It: This telescope excels because it includes a NASA-recommended solar filter made in the USA, ensuring safe direct solar viewing. Its 70mm fully coated optics deliver bright, sharp images of the eclipse and beyond. The full-height tripod and adjustable mount provide stability during critical moments, reducing shakiness. Compared to others, its combination of safety, clarity, and ease of use makes it the top choice for eclipse viewing and stargazing alike.
Celestron AstroMaster 70AZ Solar Telescope Kit
- ✓ Safe solar viewing
- ✓ Solid, stable mount
- ✓ Easy to set up
- ✕ Limited nighttime use
- ✕ Slightly bulky tripod
| Optical Aperture | 70mm (2.76 inches) |
| Optics Coating | Fully coated glass optics |
| Focal Length | Approximately 700mm (inferred from typical 70mm refractors) |
| Eyepieces | 20mm and 10mm with erect image diagonal |
| Mount Type | Alt-Az with panning handle and clutch |
| Solar Filter | EclipSmart solar filter conforming to ISO 12312-2:2015(E) standard |
That moment when you finally attach the EclipSmart solar filter and see the Sun’s surface come into crisp focus—it’s genuinely awe-inspiring. The fully coated glass optics of the Celestron AstroMaster 70AZ make this possible without any fuzzy edges or distortions, even during close-up views of sunspots.
The sturdy, full-height tripod really shines here, giving you stable, shake-free views while you track the Sun’s movement across the sky. The smooth panning handle and Alt-Az control let you switch targets effortlessly, which is a huge plus if you’re trying to catch a fleeting eclipse or just want to explore the Sun’s features over a few days.
The secure filter attachment system is reassuring—you can tighten the safety screws to keep the filter firmly in place, and the safety cap protects the filter when you’re not observing. Plus, the included 20mm and 10mm eyepieces let you switch between wider views and more detailed looks, making it versatile for both solar and night sky observations.
What I really appreciate is how easy it is to set up and use, even for beginners. The erect image diagonal is a nice touch, so you don’t have to worry about upside-down views when observing terrestrial objects or the Sun.
Overall, this kit balances affordability with safety and quality. It’s perfect if you want a reliable, all-in-one tool for solar eclipses, sunspots, and star gazing without fussing over complicated setups.