Binoculars Astro 18x70 IF WP WF

Nikon 18x70

( 5 / 5 )

You get what you pay for. The highest optical quality for binocular astronomy, a pleasure to use. This is my primary observing tool for galaxies, globulars and double stars. Star images are extremely pinpoint. Because of this star-color is visible in very faint stars and very close pairs can be separated (atmospheric conditions allowing). Lens-coating are so good that you almost see nothing at all while looking into the barrels – attesting to the high light transition rate. The number of faint NGC galaxies I have seen with this binocular attest to this (in dark sky’s of course). 4-degree real field and 70 degree apparent at 18x is something to behold! The huge real field also makes finding objects easy. Though, in dark skies so many stars are visible that maps that go quite deep are recommended for orientation. You can use this handheld for quick looks, but this really needs a tripod. The image is good in daytime, but some CA is visible – this is not a problem at night. Since it has individual focusers there are probably better options with a central focuser for day-time observations, but as a astronomy binocular this has my highest recommendation. Mechanical quality is on the level of atomic bomb proof, and the binocular looks like it will last forever. The high quality hard carrying case is a nice touch. The only point of criticism is that the hard plastic eye cups need to be removed (I use glasses) to see the whole field. The binocular really should have been delivered with optimal soft rubber eyecups. You also need to know that you have to get a separate tripod adapter (from Nikon) that fits over the central metal bar on the binocular since it does not have the usual tripod socket. This makes the binocular very stable on the tripod, however. In short: A fantastic instrument for amateur astronomy, and one of the best 70 mm binoculars available. A lifetime investment. Delivery to Norway was without problems.