
( Brand: Celestron ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 71018-CGL ), ( Model: 20X80 ), ( Manufacturer Warranty: No ), ( Serial Number: No Visible Serial ), ( Type: Binoculars )
The **Celestron 71018-CGL SkyMaster 20x80mm Porro Prism Binoculars** are a premium, high-performance optical instrument designed for serious astronomy enthusiasts and experienced stargazers seeking unparalleled clarity and detail in the night sky. Engineered with a **20x magnification** and **80mm aperture**, these binoculars deliver a generous light-gathering capacity, allowing observers to explore celestial wonders with exceptional brightness and contrast. The **Porro prism optical design** ensures a wide field of view and a comfortable, ergonomic viewing experience, reducing eye strain during extended sessions. The **fully multi-coated optics** enhance light transmission, minimizing glare and maximizing color fidelity, so that nebulae, star clusters, and distant galaxies appear vivid and sharp rather than washed out or distorted. Built with a robust **aluminum body**, these binoculars are both lightweight and durable, making them ideal for portable use in the field or at remote observing sites. The **close focus capability** of just **10 feet** allows for detailed terrestrial viewing as well ideal for birdwatching, landscape observation, or spotting wildlife while the **waterproof and fogproof construction** ensures reliability in varying weather conditions. With a **20mm exit pupil**, these binoculars are optimized for low-light astronomy, providing a crisp, high-contrast image of the Moon s craters, Jupiter s bands, Saturn s rings, and even faint deep-sky objects like the Andromeda Galaxy. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or a dedicated hobbyist, the Celestron SkyMaster 20x80mm offers a refined, professional-grade viewing experience that elevates the art of stargazing to new heights.
The Celestron SkyMaster 20x80mm Porro Prism Binoculars (model 71018 or 71018-CGL) are a popular choice for stargazing and terrestrial viewing, but they come with distinct advantages and drawbacks depending on your needs.
### **Pros:**1. **Excellent Optical Quality for Astronomy** The 80mm objective lenses gather ample light, making them ideal for viewing faint celestial objects like galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters. The Porro prism design minimizes chromatic aberration, delivering sharp, clear images even at high magnification (20x).
2. **High Magnification (20x)** The 20x magnification is suitable for deep-sky observation, allowing you to see more detail in the night sky compared to lower-power binoculars.
3. **Wide Field of View (FOV)** The 310-foot FOV at 1,000 yards provides a broad viewing area, which is useful for both terrestrial and astronomical use.
4. **Durable and Sturdy Build** The binoculars feature a robust, all-metal body with rubber armor, making them resistant to shocks and weather conditions. The CGL (Coated Glass Lens) version ensures better light transmission and reduced glare.
5. **Good Low-Light Performance** The large aperture (80mm) performs well in low-light conditions, making them a strong choice for stargazing.
6. **Porro Prism Design** This design provides a more comfortable viewing experience with a wider eye relief and a more natural image orientation compared to roof prism binoculars.
7. **Affordable for Their Class** Compared to high-end astronomical binoculars, these offer excellent value for their magnification and aperture.
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### **Cons:**1. **Heavy and Bulky** At around 5.5 lbs (2.5 kg), they are significantly heavier than smaller binoculars, making them less portable for extended outdoor use or travel.
2. **Limited Eye Relief for Glasses Wearers** While the eye relief is decent, users who wear glasses may still struggle with full-eye coverage, especially at higher magnifications.
3. **Narrow Field of View at High Magnification** The 20x magnification reduces the apparent field of view, which can make tracking moving objects (like birds or aircraft) more difficult compared to lower-power binoculars.
4. **Not Ideal for Daytime Hunting or Sports** The high magnification and narrow field of view make them less practical for fast-moving terrestrial subjects like birds or sports.
5. **Requires a Stable Mount** Due to their weight and magnification, they need a tripod or stable surface for clear, steady viewing, especially in astronomy.
6. **Potential for Image Distortion at Extremes** Some users report slight vignetting or distortion at the edges of the field, though this is common in high-magnification binoculars.
7. **Maintenance Needs** The large lenses and prism system require occasional cleaning to maintain optimal performance, especially in dusty or humid conditions.
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### **Conclusion:**The Celestron SkyMaster 20x80mm Porro Prism Binoculars are **excellent for astronomy enthusiasts** who prioritize deep-sky viewing and are willing to invest in a sturdy, high-performance tool. They excel in low-light conditions and deliver crisp, detailed images of celestial objects. However, their weight, bulkiness, and limited terrestrial utility make them less ideal for casual outdoor use, sports, or travel.
If your primary focus is **stargazing and observing the night sky**, these binoculars are a **strong recommendation** due to their optical quality and durability. For **general outdoor use, birdwatching, or sports**, a lower magnification (e.g., 10x42 or 8x42) with a tripod attachment might be more practical.
### **Final Recommendation:**Buy the **Celestron 71018-CGL (Coated Glass Lens) version** if you are a dedicated astronomer or someone who values superior low-light performance. Pair them with a sturdy tripod for optimal use. If you need versatility for both terrestrial and celestial viewing, consider a mid-range option like the **Celestron Nature DX 10x42 or 15x70** for a balance between portability and performance.
Save money, reduce your impact, while enjoying the same great tech. Celestron 71018 Skymaster 20X80mm Porro Prism Binoculars: $115.99. Your New Home for, Pre-owned Tech: Get the best deals on everything from smartphones, tablet's, laptops, camera gear, and even gaming gear. Functionality condition: This device is used and fully functional.
Model Skymaster 20X80. Wiped of all data. Type Binoculars. Condition is thoroughly assessed.
Please view our close up photos, as these are taken of the actual item being offered for sale. This device is Sand fully functional. Celestron Skymaster 20X80 Binoculars 71018-CGL. Rigorously tested and cleaned.
Devices have not been reassembled. Thoroughly inspected by experts. No UPC 3 Serial# NO VISIBLE SERIAL Cosmetic condition: This device is used and in good condition, with minor scratches scuffs from everyday use. This device is Sand in good condition, with minor scratches scuffs from everyday use.