For a compact scope...not much can come close anywhere near the price. I bought mine used (mint condition) and truly enjoy it. In the future, a Nexstar 8 will certainly be on my "to buy" list. Combine this scope with a few Celestron Ultima eyepieces and you have a great "starter" scope. I'm new at the astonomy thing...but this seems like a great place to start regarding scope choices.

Overall Rating: 9
Optics:8 Mount:10 Ease of Use:8 Value:10
Weight: 5
Date: 06/12/2003 05:31:34 pm PST

Replies: 0

This is a pretty good eyepiece. I will probably be adding the 18mm and 30mm to my collection...along with the Ultima Barlow. I don't care nearly so much for the Ultima 5mm though. All in all...good values, especially if you can pick them up used.

Overall Rating: 8
Optics:8 Value:8
Weight: 5
Date: 06/12/2003 03:31:52 pm PST

Replies: 0

I own the Ultima 5mm and the Ultima 12.5. I enjoy the 12.5 more due to the extra eye relief that is available. If you can deal with the eye relief this is great. If it annoys the heck out of you like it does me...maybe the 12.5 with an Ultima Barlow would be a better bet.

You can pick Ultimas up used for $55 to $70. At that price they are very hard to beat.

Overall Rating: 8
Optics:8 Value:8
Weight: 5
Date: 06/12/2003 03:29:07 pm PST

Replies: 0