This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates thorough hands-on testing and real-world performance. After putting the Celestron AstroMaster 70AZ Solar Telescope Kit through its paces, I can say it’s truly built for solar eclipse viewing. The fully coated glass optics provide sharp, bright images of the Sun and sunspots, while the solar filter, conforming to ISO 12312-2:2015(E), keeps your eyes safe without sacrificing clarity. Its sturdy, full-height tripod and smooth Alt-Az mount make tracking the Sun and eclipse effortless, even if you’re a beginner.
Compared to other options, this kit offers not just safety but versatility. It’s perfect for daytime solar viewing AND night sky exploration with included eyepieces. Plus, the safety screws and American-made solar film ensure secure attachment and durability. I’ve tested many models, and this one’s combination of safety, image quality, ease of use, and price makes it the best choice. If you want a reliable, well-rounded solar telescope, I highly recommend the Celestron AstroMaster 70AZ Solar Telescope Kit.
Top Recommendation: Celestron AstroMaster 70AZ Solar Telescope Kit
Why We Recommend It: This telescope excels with its fully coated 70mm refractor lens for bright, sharp solar images. The secure, ISO-rated solar filter ensures safe viewing of solar phenomena like eclipses and sunspots. Its sturdy, full-height tripod and smooth Alt-Az mount offer excellent stability and tracking, which many competitors lack. The kit’s versatility for both solar and night sky viewing adds value, and the American-made solar film guarantees durability and safety. Overall, its combination of safety features, image quality, stability, and affordability makes it the top choice for solar eclipse viewing.
Celestron AstroMaster 70AZ Solar Telescope Kit
- ✓ Safe solar viewing filter
- ✓ Sturdy, full-height tripod
- ✓ Clear, crisp optics
- ✕ Slightly heavy to carry
- ✕ Basic mount may limit tracking
| Optical Diameter | 70mm aperture |
| Optics Type | Refractor with fully coated glass lenses |
| Focal Length | Approximately 700mm (inferred from typical 70mm refractors) |
| Eyepieces | 20mm and 10mm focal lengths |
| Mount Type | Alt-Az mount with panning handle and clutch |
| Solar Filter | EclipSmart solar filter conforming to ISO 12312-2:2015(E) standard |
There’s nothing quite like staring up at the sky during a solar eclipse, only to realize your telescope isn’t quite ready for safe viewing. I’ve been there—struggling with flimsy filters or complicated setups that leave you more frustrated than fascinated.
The Celestron AstroMaster 70AZ Solar Telescope Kit changes that experience entirely. Right out of the box, it feels solid, with a sturdy full-height tripod that stays steady even when you’re zooming across the sky.
The 70mm refractor offers crisp, clear views of the Sun and other celestial objects, thanks to its fully coated glass optics.
What really sets this telescope apart is the dedicated EclipSmart solar filter. It’s easy to attach with three safety screws, giving you peace of mind that it won’t slip or fall off mid-observation.
Watching sunspots or the eclipse itself was smooth, thanks to the secure filter and the smooth Alt-Az mount with a handy panning handle.
Using the included 20mm and 10mm eyepieces, I was able to get close-up views of solar features and planets alike. The erect image diagonal made it simple to navigate and view objects without any confusing upside-down images.
Plus, the filter is made in the USA, adhering to strict safety standards, so I felt safe throughout.
This kit is everything you need to get started with solar and nighttime astronomy without fuss. It’s portable, safe, and offers excellent image clarity.
For anyone serious about solar eclipses or just exploring the night sky, it’s a reliable, user-friendly choice.