Celestron ExploraScope 114AZ Newtonian Reflector Telescope (#22103)
Big scope power meets beginner-friendly design—perfect for exploring the Moon, planets, and beyond.
The Celestron ExploraScope 114AZ is a 4.5" Newtonian reflector telescope built for newcomers to the hobby who want more aperture and performance without the complexity. Its generous 114mm (4.5") aperture pulls in significantly more light than typical starter scopes, while its long 1000mm focal length and intuitive alt-azimuth mount make it a smooth, no-fuss observing experience. Whether you’re scanning lunar craters, chasing planets, or getting your first glimpse of the Orion Nebula, this portable reflector delivers.
A Larger Aperture for Serious Views
With its 114mm parabolic primary mirror, the ExploraScope 114AZ gathers 265 times more light than the unaided human eye. That’s enough light to give you detailed views of Saturn’s rings, Jupiter’s cloud bands and moons, and star clusters like the Pleiades or Hercules globular cluster.
Its long 1000mm focal length and f/9 focal ratio make it easier to reach higher magnifications, great for lunar and planetary detail while still allowing useful wide-field views for brighter deep-sky objects.
Fully coated optics throughout help ensure bright, contrasty images with minimal internal reflections—whether you’re exploring the night sky or testing your optics on distant terrestrial targets during the day.
Easy to Use, Easy to Transport
The ExploraScope 114AZ was built with beginners in mind. Its lightweight frame and simple, no-tool setup make it ideal for family observing, classroom use, or impromptu sessions under the stars. The entire telescope—including tripod and accessories—weighs just 6.7 pounds, making it easy to move and store.
The manual alt-azimuth mount includes a pan handle with clutch for smooth, accurate movement. You can easily sweep left, right, up, or down to track objects manually, just like you would with a camera tripod—no motor drives or power required.
Complete Accessory Bundle
Right out of the box, you’ll have everything you need for a wide range of magnifications and observing styles:
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20mm erect image eyepiece (50x) – ideal for beginner-friendly, right-side-up views of the Moon, planets, and terrestrial objects
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4mm eyepiece (250x) – for pushing the limits on planetary detail and lunar close-ups
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3x Barlow lens – triples the power of any eyepiece, giving you effective magnifications of 150x and 750x (best used in excellent seeing conditions)
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StarPointer™ red dot finderscope – makes aiming your telescope quick and easy by projecting a simple red dot onto the sky
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Aluminum tripod with accessory tray – provides stable support and convenient storage for your eyepieces and Barlow
Tech Specs Summary
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Optical Design: Newtonian Reflector
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Aperture: 114mm (4.5")
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Focal Length: 1000mm
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Focal Ratio: f/9
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Eyepieces: 20mm (50x), 4mm (250x)
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Barlow Lens: 3x (triples eyepiece magnification)
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Finderscope: StarPointer™ red dot
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Max Magnification: 269x
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Light Gathering Power: 265x human eye
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Coatings: Fully Coated
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Mount Type: Manual Alt-Azimuth with clutch
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Tripod Height: Up to 52"
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Total Kit Weight: 6.7 lbs (3.04 kg)
Observing Tip:
Even though the included 4mm eyepiece promises 250x, remember that the atmosphere is often the limiting factor. Start your session with the 20mm eyepiece for wide views and easier object acquisition, then swap to the 4mm or Barlow-enhanced views once conditions settle—especially when targeting planets or the Moon.
Final Thoughts
The Celestron ExploraScope 114AZ packs a serious punch for its price and weight class. With a larger mirror than most beginner scopes, intuitive controls, and a complete accessory kit, it’s the ideal next step up for newcomers who want real aperture power without getting bogged down in complex electronics. Easy to use, fun to explore with, and built to grow with your interest.
