The Celestron AstroMaster 31051 130EQ is a popular choice for beginner to intermediate astronomy enthusiasts. It features a 130mm aperture, which allows it to gather a substantial amount of light, providing clear and bright images of celestial objects like planets, star clusters, and the Moon. The 650mm focal length is well-suited for both wide-field and high-power observations. Equipped with an equatorial mount, the 130EQ aids in tracking celestial bodies across the sky as the Earth rotates, a feature beneficial for those interested in astrophotography.
The telescope comes with standard accessories such as two eyepieces (usually 20mm and 10mm), a star pointer finder scope, and a sturdy tripod. While the setup process can be a bit complex for first-timers, it offers a good learning experience for understanding the basics of equatorial tracking and telescope alignment.
Overall, the Celestron AstroMaster 130EQ provides a balance between versatility and performance at an affordable price, making it a good investment for amateur stargazers looking to expand their observational capabilities. However, for those specifically interested in serious astrophotography or deep-sky observation, more advanced models might be more suitable.