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The Orion StarBlast 4.5 Astro is a compact, manually aimed tabletop Newtonian reflector with a 114mm parabolic mirror and a short 450mm focal length. Its simple mount and supplied 20mm and 10mm eyepieces make it approachable for visual observing, but you need a stable surface and must move the telescope by hand to aim and track objects. The specifications below come from Orion’s model 10015 instruction manual, revision D, dated October 2022; this is not a hands-on performance test.
What kind of telescope is the Orion StarBlast 4.5?
It is a Newtonian reflector designed for visual observing. Light enters the open tube, reflects from a 114mm (4.5-inch) parabolic primary mirror to a 34mm-minor-axis secondary mirror, and then reaches the eyepiece. Its 450mm focal length and f/3.9 focal ratio describe a relatively short, fast optical system. That design can suit wide-field viewing, but the available sources do not establish a measured field of view or independently tested image quality.
The focuser is rack-and-pinion and accepts standard 1.25-inch eyepieces. The model manual lists the assembled weight as 10 lb 13.8 oz and the optical tube length as 17.75 inches.
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Is it suitable for beginners?
The straightforward manual mount and included finder make it a plausible beginner telescope for someone willing to learn to aim and track by hand. There is no motorized tracking: the observer moves the base in altitude (up and down) and azimuth (left and right) to locate and follow objects. A sturdy, level table or similarly stable support is therefore part of the practical setup.
#1 Best Overall
- SMARTPHONE-POWERED SKY TOUR: No experience needed! Just dock your phone, launch the StarSense Explorer app, and follow the on-screen arrows to locate stars, planets, nebulae, and more.
- PATENTED STARSENSE TECHNOLOGY: Unlike other astronomy apps, StarSense Explorer uses sky recognition technology to turn your phone into a celestial navigation system, analyzing star patterns overhead to pinpoint your telescope’s position.
- TONIGHT’S BEST TARGETS, INSTANTLY: The app generates a curated list of the top objects to see based on your time and location. See planets, bright nebulae, galaxies, and star clusters from the city—and even more from dark skies.
- SIMPLE SETUP, SMOOTH TRACKING: Features a manual altazimuth mount with altitude slow motion adjustment with a sliding rod. Follow the on-screen arrows to your target; when the bullseye turns green, you can view it clearly through the eyepiece.
- 114MM REFLECTOR WITH IMPRESSIVE VIEWS: The 4.5" Newtonian reflector with high-reflectivity coatings delivers sharp, vivid views of the Moon, planets like Jupiter and Saturn, and deep-sky favorites like the Orion Nebula and Andromeda Galaxy.
The fast f/3.9 optical system also makes collimation—a process of aligning a Newtonian telescope’s mirrors—a relevant setup consideration. A secondary review identifies collimation accuracy and eyepiece performance as considerations for this design, but this review does not establish how often adjustment is needed or evaluate a specific collimation tool.
What comes in the box?
Orion’s model manual specifies the following included items and features. Confirm the contents with the specific seller before purchase because package details can vary by listing.
Rank #2
- POWERFUL TELESCOPE FOR BEGINNERS: The AstroMaster 70AZ is the perfect entry-level telescope for adults and kids eager to explore the night sky. You get bright, clear views and simple, intuitive operation.
- HIGH-QUALITY 70MM OPTICS: Enjoy crisp, detailed views through the fully coated 70mm (2.8") achromatic refractor — perfect for observing the Moon, planets, bright star clusters, and even terrestrial landmarks.
- VERSATILE DAY & NIGHT USE: Designed for both astronomical and land-based viewing, the AstroMaster 70AZ lets you explore the stars at night and enjoy daytime views of wildlife or distant landmarks.
- EASY-TO-USE ALT-AZIMUTH MOUNT: Smoothly navigate the sky with a manual alt-azimuth mount and easy-to-use panhandle, which lets you point the telescope up, down, and side to side with precision.
- QUICK SETUP: With just a few key parts to assemble, you can go from box to backyard in minutes—no tools required. The sturdy, adjustable tripod provides stable, comfortable viewing tailored to your height, perfect for adults or kids, standing or seated.
- 20mm and 10mm four-element Bertele eyepieces
- EZ Finder II reflex sight
- 1.25-inch neutral-density Moon filter with 13% transmission
- Tabletop base made from MDF with a laminate finish
What do the supplied magnifications mean?
The manual gives magnifications of 22.5x with the 20mm eyepiece and 45x with the 10mm eyepiece. The calculation is telescope focal length divided by eyepiece focal length: 450mm ÷ 20mm = 22.5x, and 450mm ÷ 10mm = 45x. These are the magnifications for the included eyepieces, not a guarantee of what every target will look like.
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Although the short focal ratio is associated with a wide-field design, the sources do not provide a measured field of view, a verified maximum useful magnification, or independently measured results for planetary or deep-sky observing. Those outcomes depend on more than the telescope’s headline specifications, so avoid treating a particular view as assured.
Rank #3
- SMARTPHONE-POWERED SKY TOUR: No experience needed! Just dock your phone, launch the StarSense Explorer app, and follow the on-screen arrows to locate stars, planets, nebulae, and more.
- PATENTED STARSENSE TECHNOLOGY: Unlike other astronomy apps, StarSense Explorer uses sky recognition technology to turn your phone into a celestial navigation system, analyzing star patterns overhead to pinpoint your telescope’s position.
- TONIGHT’S BEST TARGETS, INSTANTLY: The app generates a curated list of the top objects to see based on your time and location. See planets, bright nebulae, galaxies, and star clusters from the city—and even more from dark skies.
- SIMPLE SETUP, SMOOTH TRACKING: Features a manual altazimuth tabletop Dobsonian-style base. Follow the on-screen arrows to your target; when the bullseye turns green, you can view it clearly through the eyepiece.
- 114MM REFLECTOR WITH IMPRESSIVE VIEWS: The 4.5" Newtonian reflector with high-reflectivity coatings delivers sharp, vivid views of the Moon, planets like Jupiter and Saturn, and deep-sky favorites like the Orion Nebula and Andromeda Galaxy.
How do you set it up and use it?
- Choose a stable support. Place the tabletop base on a firm, level surface that will not wobble while you observe.
- Set up the tube and finder. Follow the model manual’s assembly and finder instructions. The EZ Finder II helps you aim, but it does not move or track the telescope for you.
- Start with the 20mm eyepiece. Its 22.5x magnification gives you the lower-power supplied option for locating a target. Center the target, then change eyepieces if you want to compare the view.
- Track manually. Make small altitude and azimuth movements to keep an object in view as it appears to move across the sky.
- Check mirror alignment when needed. Collimation is a relevant consideration for a fast Newtonian. Use the manual’s guidance and appropriate instructions for any collimation method or tool; no tool or procedure was independently evaluated here.
Is the Moon filter safe for looking at the Sun?
No. The supplied 13%-transmission neutral-density filter is for lunar observing and is not solar protection. Orion’s model 10015 instruction manual warns: “Never look directly at the Sun through this telescope or its finder scope — even for an instant — as permanent eye damage could result.” Never point the telescope or finder at the Sun for viewing.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What should you check before buying?
Current price, stock, warranty, and exact package configuration are seller-specific details and are not established here. Check the live listing for the seller’s current terms and included items rather than assuming that every listing matches the manual’s package description.
Rank #4
- SMARTPHONE-POWERED SKY TOUR: No experience needed! Just dock your phone, launch the StarSense Explorer app, and follow the on-screen arrows to locate stars, planets, nebulae, and more.
- PATENTED STARSENSE TECHNOLOGY: Unlike other astronomy apps, StarSense Explorer uses sky recognition technology to turn your phone into a celestial navigation system, analyzing star patterns overhead to pinpoint your telescope’s position.
- TONIGHT’S BEST TARGETS, INSTANTLY: The app generates a curated list of the top objects to see based on your time and location. See planets, bright nebulae, galaxies, and star clusters from the city—and even more from dark skies.
- SIMPLE SETUP, SMOOTH TRACKING: Features a manual altazimuth mount with altitude slow motion adjustment with a sliding rod. Follow the on-screen arrows to your target; when the bullseye turns green, you can view it clearly through the eyepiece.
- 80MM REFRACTOR WITH IMPRESSIVE VIEWS: The 3" Refractor with high-reflectivity coatings delivers sharp, vivid views of the Moon, planets like Jupiter and Saturn, and deep-sky favorites like the Orion Nebula and Andromeda Galaxy.
If comparing it with another beginner telescope, useful points are aperture and optical design; focal length and focal ratio; mount and tracking method; included eyepieces, finder, and filters; portability and assembled weight; setup needs such as collimation; and the seller’s current price, warranty, and verified package contents. A current second-model configuration or price is not established here.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Exceptional Optical for Day & Night: Features a 300mm focal length, 70mm aperture and Fully Multi-Coated optical glass, maximizing light transmission for ultra-sharp images. Enjoy crisp daytime views of wildlife and mountains, or explore celestial wonders such as moon craters and lunar eclipses.
- 150X Magnification for Moon & Planet Viewing: Powerful 15x–150x magnification – Includes two telescope eyepieces (20mm for wide view & 6mm for detail) plus a 3X Barlow lens, allowing the refractor telescope to deliver 15X and 150X magnification. Perfect for observing Jupiter, Saturn’s rings, and bright stars in your backyard or campsite.
- Phone Adapter & Stable Tripod: Comes with a 5x24 finderscope to locate targets quickly, a sturdy telescope tripod, a universal phone adapter, and a wireless camera remote. Easily capture clear, stable photos and videos of the planets or scenery without shake to share with friends and family.
- Beginner-Friendly Telescope for Kids: Designed for kids, beginners, and adults with a quick setup (no tools required). Includes a star chart that helps users learn the night sky. Excellent hands-on tool to spark kids' interest in astronomy, foster practical skills, and create memorable family stargazing experiences.
- Astronomy Gift with Lifetime Maintenance: Packed in an attractive color gift box, this ultra-lightweight telescope is tailored for camping, road trips, and outdoor adventures away from city lights. Complete with all essential accessories and backed by our lifetime Maintenance for total peace of mind. This is the ideal gift for astronomy enthusiasts of adults and kids.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
