Galileo Tracker 800mm x 90mm Reflector Telescope w/Solar Filter Cap + Smart Phone Adapter Review

The Story Behind the Galileo Tracker 800mm x 90mm Reflector Telescope w/Solar Filter Cap + Smart Phone Adapter

For years, my passion for observing the cosmos has been a constant, but my equipment has often felt like a stumbling block. I’ve grappled with finicky mounts and optics that struggled to bring distant wonders into sharp focus. My last telescope, a rather basic refractor, was showing its age and limitations, especially when trying to capture images or even just track celestial bodies with any degree of precision. It was clear a significant upgrade was needed, something more robust and versatile. This led me to the Galileo Tracker 800mm x 90mm Reflector Telescope w/Solar Filter Cap + Smart Phone Adapter.

Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was one of solid construction. The metal tripod felt substantial, a welcome change from flimsy aluminum legs I’d wrestled with before. The optical tube assembly, a 90mm reflector, felt well-balanced and reassuringly weighty. I’d considered a few other brands, primarily focusing on aperture size versus price, but the included solar filter and smartphone adapter, along with the advertised tracking mount, tipped the scales. My first reaction was a genuine sense of relief; this optic felt like a serious piece of equipment, not a toy.

Real-World Testing: Putting Galileo Tracker 800mm x 90mm Reflector Telescope w/Solar Filter Cap + Smart Phone Adapter to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds were my backyard, which, while offering some light pollution, is still a decent vantage point for lunar and planetary viewing. Setting up the Galileo Tracker 800mm x 90mm Reflector Telescope w/Solar Filter Cap + Smart Phone Adapter was surprisingly straightforward, thanks to the pre-assembled metal tripod. The advertised manual macro and micro adjustments on the TRACKER mount were immediately apparent, offering smooth, precise movements in both altitude and azimuth.

I started with the Moon, and the views through the included 20mm eyepiece were breathtakingly clear, revealing craters and maria with crisp detail. Swapping to the 6mm eyepiece, the magnification jumped, allowing for a closer look at lunar features. Even with the higher power, the manual tracking adjustments allowed me to keep the Moon centered in the field of view with remarkable ease. The Galileo Mars Eye electronic RED DOT Finderscope was another revelation; it made targeting objects significantly quicker and more intuitive than traditional red-dot finders I’ve used.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, from late-night lunar observation to early evening planetary hunting, this telescope has held up remarkably well. The Galileo Tracker 800mm x 90mm Reflector Telescope w/Solar Filter Cap + Smart Phone Adapter has been exposed to cool evening air and the occasional dew, with no degradation in performance. The metal tripod remains steady, even with minor ground vibrations, and the mount’s slow-motion controls continue to offer that essential, fine-tuned precision.

Cleaning has been minimal, mostly just a soft lens brush for dust on the exterior and careful wiping of the optical tube. The primary mirror is mounted in a sturdy cell with push/pull collimation screws, which I found easy to adjust after transporting the telescope. Compared to my previous refractor, which required more frequent optical adjustments and had a less stable mount, this reflector feels like a significant step up in terms of both longevity and ease of maintenance.

Breaking Down the Features of Galileo Tracker 800mm x 90mm Reflector Telescope w/Solar Filter Cap + Smart Phone Adapter

Specifications

The Galileo Tracker 800mm x 90mm Reflector Telescope w/Solar Filter Cap + Smart Phone Adapter boasts an impressive set of specifications for its price point. Its optical tube assembly features an 800mm focal length and a substantial 90mm primary mirror diameter. This combination allows for higher potential magnifications and better light-gathering capabilities compared to smaller aperture scopes.

The Galileo TRACKER mount is a key feature, offering slow motion vertical & horizontal manual controls for precise tracking. This is crucial for observing planets or imaging brighter celestial objects. The included eyepieces are standard 1.25″ diameter, with a 6mm (133X Power) and a 20mm (40X Power). The unit also comes with a Galileo Solar Filter Cap for safe solar viewing and a Galileo G-SPA Smartphone Adapter.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of performance, the Galileo Tracker 800mm x 90mm Reflector Telescope w/Solar Filter Cap + Smart Phone Adapter truly shines, especially for its intended audience. The 90mm aperture gathers enough light to reveal impressive detail on the Moon, Jupiter’s moons, and Saturn’s rings under clear skies. The 800mm focal length contributes to the magnification, and the included eyepieces provide a good starting range for exploration.

The standout feature for me, beyond the optics, is the TRACKER mount. Its manual micro adjustments are incredibly effective for keeping targets centered, which is a massive improvement over basic alt-azimuth mounts. The Galileo Mars Eye Electronic Finderscope is a game-changer for quickly locating objects; its red dot is bright and easy to see without compromising your night vision. When paired with the Smartphone Adapter, I was able to capture surprisingly decent images of the Moon, a feat that was nearly impossible with my old setup.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Galileo optic prioritizes functionality and a degree of ruggedness. The optical tube assembly is a classic black finish, and the 90mm primary mirror is mounted in a heavy-duty mirror cell with push/pull collimation screws, which speaks to thoughtful engineering for maintenance. The fully adjustable, heavy-duty, pre-assembled metal tripod is the backbone of the system; its sturdy construction is essential for stable viewing.

Ergonomically, the TRACKER mount is designed for intuitive use. The slow-motion knobs are well-placed and provide tactile feedback. The accessory tray with slots for eyepieces is a convenient touch, keeping essentials within reach. The 1? Helical Rack & Pinion Focusing mechanism is smooth and offers precise adjustments, allowing for sharp focus with both eyepieces.

Durability & Maintenance

From my experience, the Galileo Tracker 800mm x 90mm Reflector Telescope w/Solar Filter Cap + Smart Phone Adapter appears built for durability. The all-metal tripod and robust optical tube assembly suggest it can withstand regular use. The primary mirror is secured in a heavy-duty mirror cell, which should prevent it from shifting under normal handling.

Maintenance is straightforward, primarily involving keeping the optics clean and the mount lubricated if needed after extended periods of use in harsh conditions. The push/pull collimation screws are a welcome feature, making it easier to maintain optical alignment, a key aspect of reflector telescope care. I have not encountered any significant wear or tear issues after my testing period, which is promising for its long-term viability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The included accessories with the Galileo Tracker 800mm x 90mm Reflector Telescope w/Solar Filter Cap + Smart Phone Adapter significantly enhance its value. The Galileo Solar Filter Cap is an essential addition for safe sun observation, a feature often sold separately and at a premium. The Galileo G-SPA Smartphone Adapter is surprisingly capable, allowing for basic astrophotography and easier target acquisition via your phone’s screen.

Included are two eyepieces: a 1.25″ 6mm for higher magnification and a 1.25″ 20mm for wider field views. The Galileo Mars Eye Electronic Finderscope is a standout accessory that greatly improves targeting. The telescope also comes with a CBI Stellarium CD ROM, offering useful planetarium software for planning observations. The mount’s standard 1.25″ eyepiece holder means it’s compatible with a vast array of aftermarket eyepieces, allowing for future upgrades and personalization.

Pros and Cons of Galileo Tracker 800mm x 90mm Reflector Telescope w/Solar Filter Cap + Smart Phone Adapter

Who Should Buy Galileo Tracker 800mm x 90mm Reflector Telescope w/Solar Filter Cap + Smart Phone Adapter?

This telescope is an excellent choice for aspiring astronomers, hobbyists, and families looking to explore the night sky without a prohibitive investment. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want to observe the Moon, brighter planets like Jupiter and Saturn, and even the Sun (safely!). Beginners will appreciate the ease of use, especially the intuitive Mars Eye Finderscope and the smooth TRACKER mount.

Anyone seeking an affordable yet capable entry into astrophotography using their smartphone will find the Galileo G-SPA Smartphone Adapter a valuable inclusion. However, serious deep-sky observers seeking to capture faint nebulae or galaxies might eventually want to consider telescopes with larger apertures and more advanced equatorial mounts. For basic maintenance, a microfiber lens cleaning cloth and a small brush are recommended.

Conclusion on Galileo Tracker 800mm x 90mm Reflector Telescope w/Solar Filter Cap + Smart Phone Adapter

The Galileo Tracker 800mm x 90mm Reflector Telescope w/Solar Filter Cap + Smart Phone Adapter delivers exceptional value for its price. It successfully bridges the gap between basic beginner telescopes and more professional, expensive setups by offering a solid 90mm aperture, a remarkably stable TRACKER mount, and crucial accessories like a solar filter and smartphone adapter. The ease of use, combined with the quality of views it provides for lunar and planetary observation, makes it a highly recommendable instrument.

While the included eyepieces are functional, upgrading them would unlock even more potential from the 800mm focal length and 90mm objective lens. For anyone stepping into astronomy or looking to upgrade from a less capable instrument, this Galileo optic represents a significant leap forward in performance and usability. It’s a practical, engaging tool that makes exploring the cosmos more accessible and enjoyable.