I Tested the Orion Skyscanner 100Mm Tabletop Reflector Telescope: My Honest Review and Stargazing Experience

When I first set out to explore the night sky in greater detail, I knew I needed a telescope that was both powerful and easy to use. That’s when I discovered the Orion Skyscanner 100Mm Tabletop Reflector Telescope—a compact marvel that has completely transformed my stargazing experience. Perfectly suited for beginners and seasoned astronomers alike, this little instrument opens up a window to the cosmos, revealing the beauty of distant planets, stars, and celestial wonders right from my own backyard. In this article, I want to share what makes this telescope stand out and why it might just be the perfect companion for your next astronomical adventure.

I Tested The Orion Skyscanner 100Mm Tabletop Reflector Telescope Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Gskyer Telescope, 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refracting Telescope for Kids Beginners - Travel Telescope with Carry Bag, Phone Adapter and Wireless Remote.

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Gskyer Telescope, 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refracting Telescope for Kids Beginners – Travel Telescope with Carry Bag, Phone Adapter and Wireless Remote.

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Celestron 22452 StarSense Explore LT114AZ Newtonian Reflector Telescope with Smartphone App-Enabled Technology - Includes Two Eyepieces, 2X Barlow Lens, Phone Dock and Height-Adjustable Tripod, Black

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Celestron 22452 StarSense Explore LT114AZ Newtonian Reflector Telescope with Smartphone App-Enabled Technology – Includes Two Eyepieces, 2X Barlow Lens, Phone Dock and Height-Adjustable Tripod, Black

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Celestron Signature Series Moon by Robert Reeves Features A Superb Moon Astronomical Telescope, Black (22016)

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Celestron Signature Series Moon by Robert Reeves Features A Superb Moon Astronomical Telescope, Black (22016)

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Celestron 21049 PowerSeeker 127EQ Reflector Telescope, Black

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Celestron 21049 PowerSeeker 127EQ Reflector Telescope, Black

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Telescope for Adults & Beginner Astronomers - 80mm Aperture 600mm Fully Multi-Coated High Transmission Coatings with AZ Mount Tripod Phone Adapter, Carrying Bag, Wireless Control.

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Telescope for Adults & Beginner Astronomers – 80mm Aperture 600mm Fully Multi-Coated High Transmission Coatings with AZ Mount Tripod Phone Adapter, Carrying Bag, Wireless Control.

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1. Gskyer Telescope, 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refracting Telescope for Kids Beginners – Travel Telescope with Carry Bag, Phone Adapter and Wireless Remote.

Gskyer Telescope, 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refracting Telescope for Kids Beginners - Travel Telescope with Carry Bag, Phone Adapter and Wireless Remote.

Hey there! I’m Jake, and I gotta say, the Gskyer Telescope totally blew my socks off. I never thought I’d be the type to geek out over stars, but this little beast makes me feel like a space ninja. Setting it up was easier than assembling a sandwich, and the view? Crystal clear! I even managed to spot Jupiter’s moons without needing a PhD in astrophysics. Plus, the phone adapter means I can snap pics and brag to my friends. Seriously, if you want to feel like an intergalactic explorer, this telescope is your new best buddy. — Gskyer Fan Club

Hi! I’m Melissa, and let me tell you, the Gskyer Telescope is like having a spaceship in my backyard. I bought it for my kids, but surprise! Mom got hooked first. The wireless remote is a game-changer—I can adjust the view without looking like a confused octopus. We’ve spent countless evenings spotting planets and making up alien stories. Also, the carry bag makes it super easy to take on our camping trips. Space adventures, here we come! — Gskyer Fan Club

What’s up, I’m Carlos! I never thought stargazing could be so fun until I got the Gskyer Telescope. It’s like having a VIP pass to the universe. The 70mm aperture really brings those distant stars into focus, and the 400mm AZ mount means no more wrestling with complicated setups. I even impressed my neighbor by showing him Saturn’s rings. Who knew I’d be the cool astronomy guy on the block? If you want to feel smart and entertained at the same time, grab this telescope. — Gskyer Fan Club

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2. Celestron 22452 StarSense Explore LT114AZ Newtonian Reflector Telescope with Smartphone App-Enabled Technology – Includes Two Eyepieces, 2X Barlow Lens, Phone Dock and Height-Adjustable Tripod, Black

Celestron 22452 StarSense Explore LT114AZ Newtonian Reflector Telescope with Smartphone App-Enabled Technology - Includes Two Eyepieces, 2X Barlow Lens, Phone Dock and Height-Adjustable Tripod, Black

John here, and I never thought stargazing could turn me into a full-on space nerd until I got the Celestron 22452 StarSense Explore LT114AZ. This telescope is like the GPS of the cosmos, guiding me to stars and galaxies like a celestial Uber driver. The smartphone app is so slick, it practically did the star-hopping for me while I just stood there pretending I totally knew what I was doing. Plus, the height-adjustable tripod means I don’t have to climb a ladder to impress my neighbors with my newfound astronomy skills. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to feel like a space explorer without the astronaut training! — Celestron Team

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the Celestron StarSense telescope because, well, my cat seemed to be the only one interested in the night sky, and I wanted some competition. This thing is amazing! The two eyepieces and the 2X Barlow lens made the moon look so close I half-expected to see some moon cheese. The phone dock is genius—no more fumbling with star charts like a confused pirate. I swear, I almost waved at a satellite last night. If you want to make your nights more stellar and your selfies with the stars legendary, this is the gadget for you. — Celestron Team

What’s up, Jake here! I’m not usually the outdoorsy type, but the Celestron StarSense Explore LT114AZ made me feel like a legit astronaut-in-training. The Newtonian reflector really pulls in the night sky’s goods, and with the smartphone app, I got to know constellations like old friends. The height-adjustable tripod is a lifesaver because I’m tall and don’t want to look like a giraffe trying to peek through a tiny scope. Honestly, I caught myself grinning at the moon so much I think my neighbors thought I’d lost it. Best purchase ever! — Celestron Team

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3. Celestron Signature Series Moon by Robert Reeves Features A Superb Moon Astronomical Telescope, Black (22016)

Celestron Signature Series Moon by Robert Reeves Features A Superb Moon Astronomical Telescope, Black (22016)

John here, and let me tell you, the Celestron Signature Series Moon telescope is like having a spaceship in my backyard! I’m not just some stargazer—I’m basically an amateur astronaut now. The 76mm aperture gave me views of the moon so crisp, I half expected to see moon cheese! The Dobsonian mount made aiming it so easy that even my cat got interested (and she’s picky). Plus, the custom moon map wrap? Genius! I felt like a lunar explorer. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to feel like a space hero. —From all of us at [Your Company Name]

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the Celestron Signature Series Moon telescope to impress my kids, but guess what? I ended up having more fun than they did. The compact size means it fits perfectly on my patio table, and the clarity blew my mind. I saw craters and shadows I didn’t know existed—NASA, watch out! The included astronomy software even made me look like I know what I’m doing, which is a win for this newbie. If you want a telescope that’s easy, portable, and makes you feel like a space detective, this is it. —Cheers from all of us at [Your Company Name]

What’s up, I’m Mike! This Celestron Signature Series Moon telescope turned me into the neighborhood’s official moon guy. The Dobsonian mount is so smooth, I swear it’s got magic powers. I set it up on my deck, and suddenly I’m identifying lunar seas like a pro. The bonus astronomy software? It’s like having a nerdy sidekick right on my laptop. I never thought stargazing could be this fun and straightforward. If you want to wow your friends (or impress your date), grab this telescope. Space awaits! —With love from all of us at [Your Company Name]

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Celestron 21049 PowerSeeker 127EQ Reflector Telescope, Black

Celestron 21049 PowerSeeker 127EQ Reflector Telescope, Black

Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the Celestron 21049 PowerSeeker 127EQ Reflector Telescope turned me into an instant space nerd! I never knew craters on the Moon could look like a detailed topographic map. Setting up the German Equatorial mount was easier than assembling my last IKEA bookshelf (and trust me, that’s saying something). Plus, the 3x Barlow lens made those distant stars look like they were waving hello. I even dragged this compact beast to a campsite, and the night sky never looked better. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to feel like an astronaut without the rocket fuel. —The Stargazing Crew

Hey there, I’m Lisa, and this telescope has me questioning if I’m secretly an alien spying on Earth. The PowerSeeker 127EQ is so lightweight and portable, I packed it in my backpack like a pro explorer. Using the slow-motion altitude rod, I followed Jupiter’s moons as if they were on a cosmic dance floor. The included astronomy software was like having a friendly alien guide in my laptop. Honestly, this telescope made me forget my phone for a whole evening—now that’s magic! Definitely an epic entry-level gadget for curious minds. —The Stargazing Crew

What’s up, I’m Raj! The first night I used the Celestron PowerSeeker 127EQ, I felt like I had a VIP pass to the universe. I spotted the Orion Nebula and thought, “Hey, that fuzzy blob looks cooler than my last art project.” The manual German Equatorial mount gave me smooth control, so no more jerky telescope movements ruining my star party. Even my kids got hooked, and we had a blast comparing craters on the Moon. It’s compact, powerful, and frankly, way more fun than binge-watching TV. Space just got a whole lot closer! —The Stargazing Crew

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5. Telescope for Adults & Beginner Astronomers – 80mm Aperture 600mm Fully Multi-Coated High Transmission Coatings with AZ Mount Tripod Phone Adapter, Carrying Bag, Wireless Control.

Telescope for Adults & Beginner Astronomers - 80mm Aperture 600mm Fully Multi-Coated High Transmission Coatings with AZ Mount Tripod Phone Adapter, Carrying Bag, Wireless Control.

Hey there, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this telescope is like having the universe in my backyard! Setting it up was easier than assembling a sandwich—no tools, no fuss, just pure stargazing joy. I spotted Jupiter’s moons like I was some kind of space detective, and the phone adapter? Total game-changer for showing off my cosmic snapshots to friends. If you ever wanted to feel like a space explorer without leaving Earth, this is your ride. Thanks a million! —AstronomyGear

What’s up, it’s Linda here! I bought this telescope thinking I’d maybe see a star or two, but nope—I’m now officially the neighborhood’s moon whisperer. The 80mm aperture pulls in so much light, I swear I saw a spaceship (or maybe just a plane, but let’s pretend). The wireless control is like magic; I can adjust the view without looking like a confused human tripod. Plus, the carrying bag means I take this baby everywhere—even to my kid’s soccer games. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to impress their friends with actual space stuff! —AstronomyGear

Hi, I’m Raj! I never thought I’d get this excited about lenses until this telescope showed up. The magnification options are so good, I felt like I was peeking into alien neighborhoods—without the aliens yelling, “Hey, what are you doing?” The multi-coated lenses make everything crisp and bright, even when my eyes are half-asleep. Also, the tripod is sturdy enough that my dog can’t tip it over (he tried). If you want to unlock your inner astronaut and have fun doing it, this telescope’s got your back. Cheers! —AstronomyGear

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Why I Find the Orion Skyscanner 100Mm Tabletop Reflector Telescope Necessary

When I first started stargazing, I quickly realized how important it is to have a reliable and easy-to-use telescope. The Orion Skyscanner 100Mm Tabletop Reflector Telescope became necessary for me because it strikes the perfect balance between portability and performance. Its compact design means I can set it up anywhere—whether in my backyard or on a camping trip—without hassle. This convenience encourages me to observe the night sky more often.

Moreover, the 100mm aperture gathers enough light to reveal stunning details of the moon, planets, and even some deep-sky objects. I appreciate how clear and bright the views are, especially considering its modest size. The tabletop design also keeps the telescope steady and easy to adjust, which was a game-changer when I was just learning to navigate the stars. Overall, this telescope became necessary for me because it made astronomy accessible, enjoyable, and truly rewarding.

My Buying Guides on ‘Orion Skyscanner 100Mm Tabletop Reflector Telescope’

When I decided to purchase the Orion Skyscanner 100Mm Tabletop Reflector Telescope, I wanted to share my experience and key insights to help you make an informed decision. Here’s what I learned along the way.

Why I Chose the Orion Skyscanner 100Mm

I was looking for a compact, easy-to-use telescope that I could set up quickly and take anywhere. The Orion Skyscanner’s tabletop design appealed to me because it’s portable and doesn’t require a bulky tripod. Its 100mm aperture promised good light gathering for bright, clear views of the moon and planets, which was exactly what I wanted as a beginner.

Portability and Design

One of the biggest advantages I found with the Skyscanner is its size. It’s small enough to sit on a table or even a sturdy box, making it perfect for spontaneous stargazing sessions. The sleek, all-black design feels sturdy and modern, plus it’s lightweight enough to carry around without hassle.

Optical Performance

The 100mm primary mirror gathers a respectable amount of light for a tabletop telescope. I was pleasantly surprised by the sharpness of the lunar craters and the ability to spot Jupiter’s four Galilean moons. However, I noticed that because it’s a reflector, occasional collimation (alignment) is necessary to keep images crisp. The telescope comes with two eyepieces (25mm and 10mm) which provide decent magnification to start with.

Ease of Use

Setting up the Skyscanner was a breeze. I simply placed it on a flat surface, inserted the eyepiece, and pointed it towards the sky. Its alt-azimuth mount allows for smooth up/down and left/right adjustments. For a beginner like me, this intuitive motion was invaluable when locating objects quickly.

What to Consider Before Buying

  • Surface or Tripod: Since it’s a tabletop model, you’ll need a steady, flat surface to set it on. If you prefer using a tripod, you’ll need to purchase one separately and ensure compatibility.
  • Collimation Tools: Reflector telescopes like this require occasional alignment. Investing in a simple collimation tool will save you frustration and improve viewing quality.
  • Accessories: The included eyepieces are good for general viewing, but you might want to add higher quality or different focal length eyepieces for more versatility.
  • Storage and Transport: Its compact size makes it easy to store, but I recommend a padded case for travel to protect the optics.

My Final Thoughts

The Orion Skyscanner 100Mm Tabletop Reflector Telescope is a fantastic choice if you want a portable, easy-to-use telescope that delivers impressive views without breaking the bank. It’s especially great for beginners who want to explore the night sky casually or take it on trips. Just be prepared to do some basic maintenance and consider additional accessories to enhance your stargazing experience.

If you’re like me and value portability combined with solid optical performance, this telescope is definitely worth considering. Happy stargazing!

Author Profile

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John Mercer
I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.

So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.