10 Best Orion Astronomy Binoculars 2026 in the United States

The Celestron SkyMaster 20x80 binoculars are a robust option for astronomy enthusiasts and those needing powerful long-distance viewing. With an impressive 20x magnification and 80mm objective lenses, they are designed to capture bright, clear images, even in low-light conditions. The BaK-4 prisms are a significant asset, ensuring maximum light throughput for detailed observations, making them suitable for nighttime and dawn/dusk use. The multi-coated optics enhance image clarity and sharpness, which is crucial for stargazing and detailed terrestrial viewing.

Due to their size and weight (4.8 pounds), these binoculars must be mounted on a tripod for optimal use. Despite the lack of an included tripod, the built-in adapter facilitates easy attachment to most standard tripods. The rubber-armored, water-resistant housing adds durability, making them suitable for outdoor use in varied weather conditions. Some users might find them bulky and less portable due to their size and the need for a tripod. Nevertheless, they come with a carrying case for easier transportation.

Celestron’s reputation and lifetime warranty offer additional peace of mind for buyers. These binoculars are ideal for adults interested in serious astronomy or long-distance terrestrial viewing, but might be less suitable for casual users or those seeking more portability.

The Celestron SkyMaster 25x100 binoculars are designed for serious astronomy enthusiasts and long-distance viewing. With a powerful 25x magnification and massive 100mm objective lenses, these binoculars are perfect for stargazing and observing distant terrestrial objects. The large aperture allows for excellent light gathering, making them suitable for low-light conditions like early morning or nighttime viewing. The BaK-4 prisms ensure bright and sharp images, enhancing the viewing experience significantly.

Due to their size and weight, these binoculars must be mounted on a tripod (not included), and they are not practical for handheld use. The built-in tripod adapter makes it easy to attach to any standard photographic tripod. The rubber-armored housing provides durability and a secure grip, while the water-resistant feature offers protection against unexpected weather conditions. Celestron also offers a limited lifetime warranty and US-based tech support, adding to the product's reliability.

The need for a tripod and the XXL size might make these binoculars less convenient for casual users or those looking for portability. These binoculars are best suited for dedicated hobbyists and serious astronomers who require powerful optics and are willing to invest in a tripod setup.

The Orion GiantView BT-70 binocular telescope is designed for intermediate astronomy enthusiasts who want immersive and bright views of the night sky as well as daytime scenes. With its large 70mm objective lenses, it captures plenty of light, making stars and details easier to see. The included 18mm eyepieces provide 22x magnification right out of the box, and you can swap eyepieces for different zoom levels, which adds versatility.

Its 45-degree angled eyepieces and individual focus adjustments make viewing comfortable over long periods. The binoculars are waterproof and nitrogen-purged, protecting them from moisture and fogging, which is helpful for outdoor use.

Weighing about 13.7 pounds and measuring 24 x 15.75 x 9.5 inches, it is fairly bulky and less convenient to carry compared to smaller models. If you prioritize image brightness and flexibility over lightweight portability, this model suits you well. Those looking for a more compact, lightweight option might find it a bit heavy to handle for extended stargazing sessions.