Celestron 72034 SkyMaster Pro ED 15x70 Astronomy Binoculars with ED Glass and Large Aperture for Long Distance Viewing, Fully Multi-Coated XLT Coating, Tripod Adapter and Carrying Case

I have had a number of astronomy binoculars - started with a simple 7x50 binocular then eventually graduated up to the larger Sky Master 15x70 (non ED) model. You can get that non-ED 15x70 for under 100 dollars. I had that binocular for many years and I will absolutely say that if you cant afford the Pro ED version, start off with that regular 15x70 for sure.However.....The difference in the Pro ED model is significant - especially if you know what you are looking for. Ink-black sky with stars that are tack sharp (under good seeing conditions -sometimes atmosphere can mess that up) but under steady clear sky, objects "pop" better in these ED glass lenses.Just scanning the milky-way is like leaving ground and flying through space. Its by far my favorite thing - just panning across the sky. Objects like the double cluster, andromeda, M13 Hercules cluster are jaw dropping.I also own telescopes - and don't get me wrong, the larger aperture of a telescope is great - but these binoculars are always so easy to just grab, sit down in a chair and enjoy the night sky. That's why I love astronomy binoculars - it makes it so easy.The 15x70 Pro ED also features filter threads if you want to add moon filters or even higher-end light pollution filters. I have yet to try that yet and I will report back if I ever do. I live where its pretty dark - so I have not found a need to add filters - but its good to know I can on this model.Comparing these to my original 15x70 - the Pro ED is heavier - that is for sure. But that weight comes from better lenses and a more complex optical system. The added weight is rarely noticed because I am more focused on being blown away at the sky. I could see if you used these for a couple hours - you could get tired of using them - but the quality outweighs that negative significantly.You can also add a tripod adapter to this - I have done that. I like to display these binocular on a tripod in my home overlooking the lake. We use these to view boats and see what is happening out on the water. The 15x power brings everything in really nice. So if you get these, get that tripod adapter - they work with all regular photo tripods - so if you have a tripod already - you are all set once you buy that adapter. It simply threads in-between the binocular lenses and is super stable. I would recommend that for sure.If you are on the fence between these and the 20x80 model - I get it. I was too. But I am glad I choose the 15x70 as these are easier to hand hold - that 20x80 is pretty big and would likely require the use of the tripod all the time. Again, I like to sit in my chair and pan the night sky - not as easy to do when tripod mounted. I do believe at some point I will order the 20x80 model - maybe next summer.The quality of these binoculars are exceptional.Final thoughts on some of the other basics - the case is great - but I rarely use it. It also came with a strap that I wouldnt see a use for unless I was hiking out further to view - but again, I view right on my property. But the strap seems nice regardless.Oh! One more thing - do yourself a favor and really learn how to adjust the diopter adjustment on binoculars. One of the eyecups has the ability to adjust its focus (in case one eye is slightly different than the other) and I cant stress enough - learn how to properly do this. Just look for a video online that walks you through that simple process. Once these are focused on stars in the sky, you dont really need to adjust focus that much at all. The focus knob is smooth and easy and objects snap into focus easily.I hope this review helps someone choose a good astronomy binocular - again, the regular 15x70 is great - but this Pro ED version is just a different level of quality. Worth it.

The SkyMaster Pro ED 15x70 binoculars are an absolute game-changer for our family camping trips. They are powerful enough to show us some incredible night sky views. That comes with the trade off of weight. They are heavy for sure, especially for kids. But you can hold them in your hands for a minute or two and keep it relatively steady, especially if you brace yourself on a chair or table. But usually I’ll set them up on a tripod using a Celestron binocular adapter. No more shaky hands and everyone gets a turn without any hassle.The lenses are top notch. You get clear views of Jupiter, Saturn, Orion, Pliedes and more. I bought a couple of inexpensive moon filters and we can now look at craters without being blinded by the excessive brightness. Durability is another big win. These binoculars have survived a few bumps (inevitable with kids) and still work great. And I like the peace of mind knowing they are waterproofI should mention that these aren't just for nighttime. During the day, we use them for birdwatching and spotting wildlife.I am happy with my purchase and really recommend these for anyone who loves mixing outdoor adventures with stargazing. They’re tough and provide awesome views of both the night sky and nature.The Moon image was taken on a tripod with my smartphone camera held to the eyepiece.

Top quality optics and quality. Trusted name.

Inadequate binoculars. These binoculars have a design flaw. They are are made for someone with a very wide face. There is no way to make them fit properly. The ocular cups are too thick (to fit filters...who really needs those anyway?) and this ruins the design. Amazon did take the binoculars back but this is taking 4 full days to credit me after they said they have issued the refund. Leave it to Amazon to check kite my funds for four days. That's not legit. Three stars off for the design and another for Amazon keeping my funds longer than they should!

These things are worth the extra cost over the base Celestron binos. These are very good for astronomy with the larger prisms, larger exit pupils. Also the coatings, baffling, focusers, build quality...etc. You are getting a heck of a value for the price...even if its higher than the base models. I would have a hard time justifying a more expensive brand over these as I can't imagine it would be that much better. The optics give a razor sharp image with no Chromatic Aberration that I can detect. I bought both the 7x50s and the 15x70s...good stuff!! They are a bit heavier than the base model 15x70s but that's the only drawback...but know that the extra weight is because of the quality differences which is worth it. I can still handhold them easily enough for short periods of time.

Great views of the night sky, use a heavy duty tripod to hold them, they are quite heavy for 70 mm binoculars. ED glass makes all the difference for brighter objects.

As an eye glass wearer, I was unable to use these binoculars at all. The eyecups are very hard plastic combined with limited eye relief making them usable for me.

These are professional quality. Very sturdy. However, they are heavy so plan on laying back in a chair with your arms propped up or get a tripod/monopod.