The Celestron PowerSeeker 76AZ Newtonian Telescope is an entry-level newtonian reflector supplied with a manual mount, adjustable tripod, eyepieces, a 5×24 finderscope and 3× Barlow lens. It is designed for straightforward visual astronomy and quick setup without powered electronics.
The 76mm Newtonian reflector gathers more light than a small-aperture beginner refractor, supporting useful visual observations of the Moon, brighter planets, double stars and bright clusters. A Newtonian reflector is primarily intended for astronomical use and does not provide a normally oriented terrestrial image.
76mm Newtonian reflector Optics
The optical system combines a 76mm aperture with a 700mm focal length and f/9.21 focal ratio. Celestron specifies a limiting stellar magnitude of 11.9 and light-gathering power 118× compared with the unaided eye.
Manual altazimuth mount
The manual altazimuth mount provides straightforward up/down and left/right pointing. It has no GoTo object finding, motor drive or automatic tracking.
Aluminium tripod with no-tool accessory tray and eyepiece holder. Celestron publishes a complete kit weight of 6.35kg (14lb), published by Celestron.
Eyepieces, Finder and 3× Barlow Lens
The supplied viewing accessories are 20mm (35×) and 4mm (175×), both 1.25 inch. The 5×24 finderscope helps centre a target before viewing it through the main telescope.
The included 3× Barlow lens triples the magnification produced by a compatible eyepiece. Some theoretical combinations exceed the telescope’s stated useful magnification; the clearest results will usually come from low and moderate powers.
Observing with the PowerSeeker
Begin with the lowest-power eyepiece to locate and centre a target, then increase magnification only when atmospheric steadiness and the target support it. Actual visible detail depends on seeing conditions, light pollution, target altitude, correct focus and, for the Newtonian models, correct collimation.
The stated highest useful magnification is an optical guideline rather than a promise that every observing session will support that power.
Portable Manual Setup
The telescope requires no mains power, batteries or app connection. The published complete kit weight is 6.35kg (14lb), published by Celestron. Celestron does not state a separate boxed shipping weight; see the accuracy note for the current UK retailer’s boxed figure.
What Is Included?
- 76mm f/9.21 Newtonian reflector optical tube
- Manual altazimuth mount and aluminium tripod
- No-tool accessory tray with eyepiece holder
- 20mm and 4mm 1.25-inch eyepieces
- 5×24 finderscope
- 3× Barlow lens
Please note: A smartphone adapter, solar filter, carrying case and additional eyepieces or filters are not stated as included.
Specifications
Optical Tube
| Optical design | Newtonian reflector |
|---|---|
| Aperture | 76mm (2.99 inches) |
| Focal length | 700mm (28 inches) |
| Focal ratio | f/9.21 |
| Optical coatings | Aluminium mirror coating |
| Included eyepieces | 20mm (35×) and 4mm (175×), both 1.25 inch |
| Barlow lens | 3× Barlow lens |
| Finderscope | 5×24 finderscope |
| Star diagonal | Not applicable |
| Highest useful magnification | 180× |
| Lowest useful magnification | 11× |
| Limiting stellar magnitude | 11.9 |
| Rayleigh resolution | 1.83 arcseconds |
| Dawes resolution | 1.53 arcseconds |
| Light-gathering power | 118× compared with the unaided eye |
| Secondary obstruction | 19mm; 25% by diameter and 6.28% by area |
| Optical-tube length | 686mm (27 inches) |
| Optical-tube diameter | Not stated |
| Optical-tube weight | Not stated separately |
| Dovetail | Not stated |
Mount and Tripod
| Mount type | Manual altazimuth mount |
|---|---|
| Operation | The manual altazimuth mount provides straightforward up/down and left/right pointing. It has no GoTo object finding, motor drive or automatic tracking. |
| Tripod / mount details | Aluminium tripod with no-tool accessory tray and eyepiece holder |
| Mount and tripod weight | Not stated separately |
| Complete kit weight | 6.35kg (14lb), published by Celestron |
| Software | Celestron Starry Night Basic Edition and SkyPortal app |
Solar Safety
Warning: Never look directly at the Sun through this telescope without a correctly fitted, certified full-aperture solar filter.
Permanent and irreversible eye damage can occur. Never use an eyepiece-type solar filter and never project an image of the Sun through the telescope. Unfiltered sunlight can damage the optics and accessories.
Never leave the telescope unattended, especially when children are present.
Instruction Manuals
Official operating and setup documents are available directly from Celestron.