The Best National Geographic Telescopes: 19 Reviews

Looking up at the night sky can be a humbling experience, but with the right telescope, it becomes an invitation to explore the wonders of the universe. National Geographic's telescopes combine powerful magnification with intuitive design to help astronomers of all skill levels uncover the secrets of the cosmos.

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Reviews

National Geographic StarApp70mm Refractor Telescope

From the moment you point it at the night sky, the National Geographic StarApp70mm 80-30070 transforms you into an amateur astronomer. With its elegant 70mm aperture, it cuts through the darkness to reveal the lunar landscape in incredible detail, while the included 2x Barlow lens lets you stretch your view to 144x magnification for a closer look at the universe's finest details. The telescope's clever design makes it as simple to use as it is powerful, thanks to its intuitive mount that helps keep your views steady and its smart phone adapter that turns your device into a real-time sky guide with the built-in ARTelescope App.

National Geographic NG114mm Newtonian Telescope with Equatorial Mount

The NG114mm Newtonian Telescope delivers sharp planetary and deep sky object views through its impressive 114mm aperture. The compact equatorial mount handles long exposures well with its slow-motion controls. An adjustable tripod, Plossl eyepieces, and free astronomy software round out this versatile setup for both beginners and experienced stargazers.

National Geographic CF700SM Refractor Telescope

This National Geographic telescope brings the night sky closer with its 70mm aperture, delivering detailed views of the moon's surface and prominent planets. The sturdy tripod and smart features like the red dot finder and smartphone adapter make it a practical choice for both beginners and families. Whether you're a first-time observer or an occasional user, this telescope provides an engaging way to explore the cosmos.

National Geographic Rt70400 70mm Refractor Telescope

A decent telescope that brings our solar system into focus without breaking the bank. It's not perfect – you won't get the same level of detail as more expensive models – but it's great for backyard stargazing and catching glimpses of the Moon and planets. With its panhandle mount, it's surprisingly steady for the price point.

National Geographic 70mm Automatic Telescope

This National Geographic telescope makes stargazing easy with its intuitive GoTo system that points you right to what you're wanting to see in the night sky. The 70mm lens captures plenty of detail, while the three eyepieces let you zoom in close for a look at planets and distant galaxies. When you're not using the built-in features, the lightweight aluminum tripod makes it simple to set up and move around.

National Geographic 76mm Dobsonian Telescope

The National Geographic 76/350 telescope packs impressive astronomical capabilities into a surprisingly portable package. Its bright mirror design makes it a breeze to use, even for stargazing newcomers. The telescope comes completely set up with everything you need, from essential accessories to a handy beginners' star guide.

National Geographic Sky View 70 Telescope

This versatile telescope lets you explore both the Moon and planets up close, plus many of the bright star clusters and nebulae in the night sky. You can choose between several magnification levels, from 16x to 120x, using the included eyepieces and Barlow lens. The adjustable tripod and panhandle mount make it comfy to use, while the smartphone adapter adds a fun way to capture your celestial photos.

National Geographic StarApp Reflector Telescope

The National Geographic StarApp-114mm Reflector Telescope opens up a window to the cosmos through its 114mm aperture, capturing the light of distant star clusters and nebulae. The included panhandle mount helps you track celestial objects, while the simple tripod allows for stable viewing sessions under dark skies. With both fixed and magnified views through its interchangeable eyepieces, this telescope represents a practical introduction to amateur astronomy for enthusiasts who want to explore the night sky.

National Geographic CF700SM Telescope

This National Geographic telescope packs impressive optics into a portable, carbon fiber design perfect for both lunar exploration and deep sky gazing. With a versatile 70mm aperture delivering crisp planetary and lunar details, the robust yet lightweight telescope features two eyepieces and a 2x Barlow lens that give you a flexibility of magnifications between 26.9x and 144x. The alt-azimuth mount makes navigating the night sky intuitive, while the full-adjustable tripod and smartphone adapter turn this telescope into a versatile tool for both casual observers and budding astronomers.

National Geographic CF114PH Telescope

The National Geographic CF114PH telescope brings the night sky down to Earth with its impressive 114mm aperture, perfect for detailed views of the Moon, planets, and bright celestial objects. The lightweight yet sturdy reflector design makes it accessible for both new and experienced stargazers, while the included accessories like the alt-azimuth mount and red dot finder scope transform it into a versatile tool for serious astronomy. Whether you're discovering lunar craters or Saturn's rings for the first time, this telescope offers an engaging way to explore the universe from your own backyard.

National Geographic 114mm Telescope

This portable telescope from National Geographic packs a good dose of aperture (114mm) into a manageable package that's suitable for both planet watching and astrophotography. The included tripod makes it easy to set up at backyard stargazing sessions or bring along on camping trips. While not the sharpest performer in its class, it delivers decent views of the moon and planets, particularly when paired with the included 9.7mm and 26mm eyepieces.

National Geographic Deluxe Adventure Set

This National Geographic set packs three essential optical tools - a telescope, microscope, and binoculars - into one convenient package. While the telescope delivers impressive views of the night sky through its 50mm lens and included Plossl eyepieces, the microscope's 900x magnification comes with its own challenges. The compact binoculars make it an ideal companion for land-based observations, though all devices require careful handling to maintain their focus. Perfect for sparking curiosity in young explorers and families looking to make connections with nature through observation.

National Geographic 50mm Telescope & 640x Microscope Set

This telescope and microscope set lets you explore the microscopic world and the night sky. The tabletop telescope shows detailed views of the moon and planets, while the microscope lets you study specimens from 40x to 640x magnification. Complete with a tripod and multiple eyepieces, this kid-friendly kit is perfect for young astronomers and scientists.

National Geographic 50mm Refractor Telescope with Astronomy App

This National Geographic refractor makes stargazing approachable with its simple design and handy features. It comes with everything you need for a basic setup, and the built-in app turns your phone into a smart guide for exploring the night sky. Whether you're a casual observer or a budding astronomer, it's a great way to catch your first glimpse of the universe beyond Earth.

National Geographic 50mm Table Top AZ Mount Telescope

This beginner-friendly telescope from National Geographic lets you see the Moon's craters up close and spot bright stars like those in the Pleiades cluster. At just 28 inches tall, it's easy to move around and set up on a tabletop. The two different eyepieces give you choices between wider views and closer looks at what's in the sky.

National Geographic CF600 Pan Handle Telescope

Combining decent optics with a kid-friendly design, this National Geographic scope lets young astronomers explore the solar system up close – from craters on the Moon to the clouds of Jupiter. The simple setup and included accessories make it a great first telescope, though experienced stargazers might want to look elsewhere.

National Geographic 114mm EQ Telescope

This solidly built telescope, featuring an 114mm aperture and 500mm focal length, delivers impressive views of star clusters, nebulae, and planets through its included 26mm and 9.7mm Plössl eyepieces. The EQ mount allows smooth tracking of celestial objects across the night sky, while the adjustable tripod and red dot viewfinder provide essential observation tools for beginners. The telescope has become a valuable gift for many young astronomers, though some users have noted that the instructions could be clearer.

National Geographic 114mm Reflecting Telescope

This lightweight reflector telescope gives you a solid foundation for stargazing, with its 114mm aperture gathering plenty of light for viewing the moon, planets, and bright deep-sky objects. The included Plossl eyepieces offer versatile magnification, while the red dot finder and smartphone adapter help you zero in on celestial targets. Whether you're a beginner or an enthusiast looking to get back into astronomy, this telescope provides rewarding views while kicking off your stargazing journey.

Bushnell 70mm Refracting Telescope

The compact yet capable National Geographic 70mm telescope is a joy for both beginners and families, with its easy setup and included smartphone adapter for capturing stargazing moments. Whether you're spotting distant eagles or chasing celestial bodies, the red dot finder helps stabilize your view, while the 400mm focal length delivers impressive detail. Complete with interchangeable eyepieces and a durable carrying case, this telescope is the perfect introduction to backyard astronomy.

Buyer's Guide

Choosing the right telescope opens a window to the cosmos, but with so many options available, it can be overwhelming. Whether you're an amateur astronomer or a casual observer, understanding the basics will help you select the perfect National Geographic telescope for your needs.

Magnification and Aperture

Magnification isn't everything - a telescope that appears powerful at first might not give you the quality view you expect. Instead, focus on the aperture (the diameter of the main lens or mirror), which determines how much light the telescope can gather. For visual observing, aim for at least 70mm for basic setups, 100mm for mid-range, and 150mm for premium models.

Portability and Setup

National Geographic telescopes range from compact portable models to more setup-intensive ones. Consider how you'll move your telescope to your observing site and how challenging it will be to adjust the tripod and focus. Lightweight altazimuth mounts are easier to use for new observers, while equatorial mounts enable more precise tracking of celestial objects.

Optical Quality and Coatings

The quality of the optics significantly affects the clarity and color reproduction of your observations. Look for telescopes with multi-coated lenses or mirrors that minimize reflections and color distortion. Higher-end models often feature fully multicoated optics with BaK4 glass prisms for improved brightness and definition.

Additional Features

Enhance your observing experience with features like computerized tracking that aligns with star maps, LED illuminated finderscopes, or built-in cameras for astrophotography. For solar observation, you'll need a specially designed solar filter. Consider how these features balance with your budget and primary observing goals.

FAQ

What is a National Geographic Telescope?

A National Geographic Telescope combines the brand's renowned attention to detail with advanced optics for both amateur and seasoned astronomers. These telescopes feature superior optical quality and precise tracking systems for deep-sky object observation.

National Geographic telescopes are specifically designed to balance portability with performance, making them suitable for both backyard observing and travel to remote locations. The brand's commitment to durability and optical excellence is evident in every model.

What types of National Geographic Telescopes are available?

The National Geographic Telescope lineup includes several popular models, including the M75, M130, and M130GPS. Each model offers progressively larger apertures and advanced features like GPS alignment and enhanced image stabilization.

These telescopes come in both Dobsonian and alt-azimuth mounting designs, catering to different observational needs and preferences. The M130GPS, for example, features an integrated GPS compass and illuminated star pointers for quick alignment.

What features distinguish National Geographic Telescopes from similar products?

National Geographic telescopes stand out through their combination of high-quality optics and practical features. The brand's proprietary Opti-Glass technology and Multi-Coated lenses deliver exceptionally sharp images with rich color saturation.

Additional distinguishing features include illuminated finderscopes, precise motorized tracking, and durable aluminum construction. The telescopes are designed with user convenience in mind, with features like quick setup mechanisms and included carry pouches.

How do National Geographic Telescopes perform in different weather conditions?

National Geographic telescopes are built to withstand various weather conditions. They perform well in temperatures ranging from -40° to 104°F (-40° to 40°C), with waterproof and fog-proof optical tubes protecting the optics.

Most models feature fully enclosed tube designs and nitrogen-purged optical systems to prevent condensation. The telescopes maintain excellent performance in light rain and are suitable for observation under overcast skies, though heavy rain or extreme humidity may limit visibility.

What maintenance do National Geographic Telescopes require?

Basic maintenance for a National Geographic telescope includes regular cleaning of the optical surfaces and periodic inspection of the mechanical components. The telescopes should be stored in a dry environment when not in use to prevent moisture damage.

The optical tube should be cleaned using appropriate lens cleaning solutions and soft cloths. Mechanical parts require occasional lubrication with dry silicone spray, and the mount should be checked for loose bolts and proper tracking. Regular maintenance extends the lifespan and performance of the telescope.

How do National Geographic Telescopes compare to competitors in the same category?

Compared to similarly priced telescopes, National Geographic models typically offer superior optical performance and more advanced features. Expect higher resolution, better light gathering capability, and more thoughtful design elements.

While other manufacturers may offer comparable basic functionality, National Geographic's attention to detail in material selection and engineering often results in longer-lasting, more reliable telescopes. The brand's commitment to both amateur and professional astronomers is reflected in its product quality and feature set.

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