| For nature study, the 9 x 63mm Ultima is an excellent tool for revealing underwing field markings of raptors in flight or for observing deer feeding in distant meadows early in the morning. It is a good and economical choice for any twilight birding or nature study activity where close focus is not required – but bright images are essential. For astronomers, the 9 x 63mm Ultima is the equivalent of a low power 90mm rich field telescope. It excels at sweeping the star clouds of Sagittarius, searching out the Great Galaxy in Andromeda, taking in open clusters like the Beehive and the Wild Duck, and more. Best of all, this hand-holdable 90mm rich field scope equivalent doesn’t need a costly mount to hold it and is priced at only a fraction the cost of a conventional refractor. Surprisingly light for its objective size, this center focus Z-body porro prism lets you take large aperture optics into the field without excess weight to tire you out. It uses BaK-4 prisms and is fully multicoated for maximum light transmission. It comes with a soft vinyl case, soft rolldown rubber eyecups, an eyepiece rainguard, an extra-wide woven neck strap, and the ability to use optional photo tripod adapter #1185L. The body is clad in durable textured vinyl for a comfortable grip. Rubber armor around the objective lenses protect them from unexpected jolts. A single turn of the large focus knob moves it from a not-so-close 30’ near focus out to the horizon. While obviously not for close-in birding, its very bright images and good resolution will do a very creditable job of revealing small details from what would normally be considered an excessively distant vantage point. Its reasonably light weight makes it easy to hand hold for long periods of observing, too. The limited eye relief might be a drawback for eyeglass wearers. There is some visible astigmatism and chromatic aberration at the edges of the field. However, these flaws are surprisingly well controlled, particularly in view of the large aperture and sensible price. As a first serious astronomical observing tool, or as a highly useful companion to take into the field with your telescope, the Celestron 9 x 63mm Ultima can give you a whole new way to enjoy the heavens.
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