Designed as a dependable and highly portable starter scope, the Celestron AstroMaster 102AZ 102mm f/6.5 Alt-Az Refractor Telescope is a complete observational platform for making detailed observations of the moon and planets or for comet-hunting. Its manual alt-azimuth mount's locking altitude clutch and locking pan handle allow users to easily find and track objects with reduced vibrations. The entire rig assembles and breaks down without the need for tools, so users can set up fast and get observing sooner.

This version of the AstroMaster comes with two eyepieces that yield low and medium magnifications and a 90° diagonal that sports an integrated erecting prism to correct images and allow the scope to be used as a conventional spotting scope for terrestrial use. The diagonal also places the user's head in a more comfortable position, especially when it is pointed directly overhead. An adjustable-height stainless steel tripod supports the mount and optical tube and comes with a center tray that conveniently holds accessories while improving stability and reducing vibrations.