Smartphone Ready
Included adapters let you capture photos through the eyepiece.
Telescopes
/ Explore Scientific
7.4
Explore Scientific Telescopes
These National Geographic series telescopes offer versatile reflector and refractor options for adults and kids interested in astrophotography
Start here
Worth noticing
Carbon Fiber Build
The NT114CF model features a durable carbon-fiber tube.
Complete Optical Kits
Sets include Barlow lenses, eyepieces, and red-dot finders.
Why it’s listed
Advanced Reflector and Refractor Specs
These listings feature 114 mm reflectors and 70 mm refractors. With focal lengths like 500 mm and f/4.4 ratios, these models are built for both visual use and basic astrophotography.
- 114 mm reflector aperture
- Carbon-fiber tube construction
- Smartphone adapter included
- 70 mm refractor with panhandle
- Red-dot finder scopes
- Plssl eyepieces and Barlow lenses
What to look for
The models
This Explore Scientific set is built around Red, For moon viewing, Tripod included, With phone adapter.
The specs that matter
Explore Scientific models in this range lean on the details already in the listings: Carbon fiber 114mm reflector with tripod; Sky View 70mm refractor panhandle mount; Reflector 114mm with smartphone adapter.
What they suit
If you need Red, For moon viewing, Tripod included, With phone adapter, this is the Explore Scientific set to scan.
What stands out
Use Red, For moon viewing, Tripod included, With phone adapter to tell one Explore Scientific model from the next.
Listings
3 telescopes listed here
Ranges For moon viewing 114mm aperture
Quick take
The rundown
After reading 8 reviews
Plus side
- Easy to use 3
- Beginner friendly 2
- Good moon views 2
- Photo capability 2
- Finder alignment effort 1
- Gift-ready packaging 1
- Sturdy build 1
Trade-offs
- Missing instructions 2
- Poor value 2
- Light pollution limits 1
Buyers
What people say
The smartphone adapter worked perfectly for taking pictures of the moon with my phone.
I really like the carbon-fiber finish on the 114 mm reflector; it feels very solid.
The red-dot finder makes it so much faster to locate planets before I look through the eyepiece.
Before you buy
National Geographic Questions
Can I take pictures with these telescopes?
Yes, these models include a smartphone adapter. This allows you to align your phone camera with the eyepiece for astrophotography.
What is the benefit of the 114 mm reflector?
The 114 mm aperture gathers more light than smaller models. This makes it better for seeing fainter objects and more detail on the moon's surface.
What accessories are included in the 114 mm kit?
The kit includes two Plssl eyepieces, a Barlow lens for extra magnification, a red-dot finder, and a tripod. It also comes with a smartphone adapter.
Are these telescopes suitable for adults?
Yes, while they are accessible for kids, the specifications like the carbon-fiber tube and 114 mm aperture are designed to satisfy adult hobbyists.