When a kid’s eyes light up at the night sky, a telescope for kids like the 70mm refractor becomes their first step into astronomy. This guide breaks down everything from setup to stargazing, perfect for young explorers (even 8-12 year olds) and newbies alike. Let’s turn curiosity into discovery.
Getting Started: Assemble Your Telescope
Parts You’ll Need
First, meet the crew:
- Main tube (the 70mm refracting lens inside is key for catching light)
- Eyepieces (25mm and 10mm work best for kids—smaller numbers mean more zoom)
- 3X Barlow lens (cranks up magnification when you want a closer look)
- Aluminum tripod (keeps things steady, with a tray for small parts)
- Phone adapter (so you can snap photos of the Moon or stars)
- Finderscope (a tiny helper to spot targets fast)
Quick Setup Steps
- Tripod first: Spread the legs, lock them, and adjust height (22–40 inches works for most kids). The tray? Great for holding extra eyepieces so they don’t get lost.
- Attach the main tube: Screw it onto the tripod base—tight enough so it doesn’t wiggle, but easy to swivel.
- Add an eyepiece: Start with the 25mm (wider view = easier to find stuff). Pop it in, twist to lock.
- Line up the finderscope: This small scope sits on the main tube. We’ll calibrate it later—trust us, it’s a game-changer.
Learn to Focus & Find Targets
Calibrate the Finderscope (Daytime Hack)
Grab a distant target—like a chimney or a tree top.
- Look through the main tube and center it.
- Twist the finderscope’s knobs until its crosshairs hit the same spot.
Now, when you aim the finderscope at the Moon later, the main tube will follow!
First View: The Moon (Perfect for Beginners)
The Moon is the best first target—it’s bright and full of details.
- Use the finderscope to point the tube at the Moon.
- Look through the 25mm eyepiece and turn the focus knob until craters pop into view.
- Want more zoom? Swap to the 10mm eyepiece or add the 3X Barlow lens (just be patient—higher zoom needs steadier hands!).
Try Planets Too!
With a 70mm telescope, you can spot Jupiter’s moons or Saturn’s rings (yes, really!).
- Use a free app (like SkyView) to find where planets are hiding.
- Aim the finderscope, then switch to the main tube. Start with the 25mm eyepiece—Jupiter will look like a bright dot, but wait… are those tiny dots around it? That’s its moons!
Take Photos & Explore More
Your telescope with phone adapter isn’t just for looking—snap pics to share!
- Clip your phone (iPhone or Android) onto the adapter, line it up with the eyepiece, and tap record.
- Daytime fun: Point it at birds or distant buildings to see how it works on Earth too.
Keep It Working Great
Storage & Care
- When done, take out the eyepieces and put them in the tray.
- Fold the tripod and tuck the tube into its bag (if it has one—portable telescopes are easy to stow!).
- Keep it dry—moisture hurts lenses!
Quick Fixes
- Lenses dusty? Wipe gently with a soft cloth (never use your finger!).
- Tripod wobbly? Tighten the leg locks.
Why This Telescope Works
A 70mm refractor is a good first telescope because it’s simple, not too heavy, and lets kids see real cosmic wonders. It’s more than a toy—it’s a STEM gift that grows with them, from backyard stargazing to sharing Saturn photos at school.
Ready to start? Grab your telescope for kids, wait for dark, and let the sky surprise you.