Orion StarBlast II 4.5 EQ Kit

The Orion StarBlast II 4.5 EQ Telescope Kit is a complete, portable package for astronomers ready to explore. It pairs a fast, wide-field reflector with essential accessories and a stable mount, offering bright, detailed views of the Moon, planets, and deep-sky wonders.

Engineered for Clear, Steady Views

Built around a quality 4.5-inch parabolic mirror, the StarBlast II combines a portable Newtonian reflector design with a stable equatorial mount. This combination delivers sharp, bright views while allowing for precise tracking of celestial objects as they move across the sky.
The Orion StarBlast II 4.5 EQ Telescope fully assembled on its tripod under a twilight sky.

Discover the Night Sky with Confidence

This telescope kit delivers a complete, portable observing solution, allowing you to quickly explore lunar craters, star clusters, and planets with satisfying clarity. Its fast focal ratio and included accessories remove guesswork, empowering immediate discovery.
A star-filled night sky viewed through the Orion StarBlast II 4.5 EQ Telescope, showing a bright star cluster.

Bright, Wide-Field Views

The fast f/3.9 focal ratio gathers light efficiently, producing bright, wide-field views of deep-sky objects that are often difficult for beginners to locate.

A person carrying the Orion StarBlast II telescope tube and tripod in a soft carrying case under their arm.

Complete, Ready-to-Go Kit

Everything you need is included: mount, tripod, finder scope, Barlow lens, eyepieces, and maps, so you can set up and start observing immediately.

The EZ Finder II reflex sight on the Orion StarBlast II telescope, showing the red dot aiming reticle.

Portable for Any Location

The telescope and tripod are lightweight and designed for easy transport, letting you set up in your backyard, a park, or a dark-sky site.

A person looking through the eyepiece of the Orion StarBlast II telescope while consulting the included MoonMap 260.

Intuitive Targeting System

The included EZ Finder II projects a red dot onto the sky, making it simple to aim the telescope accurately at your chosen target.

The included accessories of the Orion StarBlast II kit: two eyepieces, a Barlow lens, and the planisphere.

Guided Learning Resources

Comes with a MoonMap 260, star planisphere, and guide book to help you learn the sky and plan your observing sessions.

Perfect For

Ideal for These Astronomers and Situations

Beginner Astronomy Families

This kit is an excellent choice for individuals or families starting their astronomy hobby, offering an easy-to-use, all-in-one package that inspires learning.

Portable Dark-Sky Viewing

Its portable design makes it perfect for taking to parks, campsites, or rural homes to escape light pollution and enjoy darker skies.

Educational & Group Use

The included educational materials and straightforward operation make it a valuable tool for schools, scouts, or astronomy club outreach events.

Backyard & Balcony Stargazing

Compact enough to set up on a balcony or patio, allowing urban dwellers to enjoy casual observing sessions without traveling far.

Meaningful Science Gift

An ideal gift for birthdays or holidays that provides a meaningful, hands-on experience with science and the natural world.

Wide-Field Deep-Sky Object Tour

The fast f/3.9 optics excel at showing wide views of larger deep-sky objects like the Pleiades cluster and the Orion Nebula.

Getting Started

Set Up for Your First Observation

Follow these steps to get your Orion StarBlast II telescope ready for its first night under the stars. Proper assembly and alignment ensure stable views and a smooth, enjoyable observing experience.
A person assembling the tripod base of the Orion StarBlast II telescope on a flat surface.

Assemble the Tripod Base

Begin by attaching the tripod legs and spreading them for a stable base. Mount the equatorial head, ensuring it is level using the built-in bubble level.

Hands attaching the black optical tube of the Orion StarBlast II to its mount.

Mount the Optical Tube

Securely attach the optical tube to the mount using the included tube rings and dovetail. Balance the tube on both axes so it stays in position when you let go.

A hand screwing the EZ Finder II sight onto the bracket on the telescope tube.

Attach the Finder Scope

Peel the backing off the EZ Finder II bracket and stick it to the pre-marked spot on the telescope tube. Insert the finder scope and tighten the thumbscrew.

A view through the telescope's finder scope, showing the red dot aligned on a distant tree.

Align the Finder Scope

Look through the telescope's main eyepiece at a distant daytime object, like a treetop. Adjust the finder scope's alignment screws until the red dot is centered on the same object.

A person gently pushing the telescope tube to check its balance on the mount.

Balance on Both Axes

Balance the telescope on both the Right Ascension and Declination axes. This allows for smooth, effortless movement and prevents strain on the mount's gears.

A person holding the Star Target Planisphere under a dark night sky, comparing it to the stars.

Plan Your First Targets

Use the included Star Target Planisphere and guide book to identify a few bright objects to observe. Start with the Moon for guaranteed stunning views.

Stargazer Stories

What Observers Say About This Kit

Hear from fellow amateur astronomers about their experiences with the Orion StarBlast II. From its straightforward setup to the stunning views it provides, these firsthand accounts highlight its value as a trusted starter telescope.
As my first real telescope, this was perfect. I had it set up in 20 minutes and saw Jupiter's moons my first night out. The included guide was a huge help for a total newbie.
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AlexP
The detail on the Moon is incredible. I can see craters and mountain ranges with such sharpness. The fast optics make the views bright, and the mount keeps it steady.
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MoonGazer42
Having everything in one box was a game-changer. The eyepieces and Barlow are good quality, and the planisphere is genuinely useful. It’s a complete package for the price.
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SarahK
I love that I can easily pack this up and take it to a darker site away from my city apartment. The tripod is surprisingly sturdy for its weight, and tracking objects is easy.
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StarryNight88
Upgraded from a basic department store scope. The difference is night and day. This Orion delivers crisp, contrasty images that actually show you what’s out there.
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DaveR
Bought this for my teenager, and it has completely captured their imagination. We've spent several evenings exploring together. It's sturdy and user-friendly for younger users.
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MomOfTwo

Common Questions About This Telescope

Our Frequently Asked Questions address common practical concerns, from initial setup and ideal viewing targets to maintenance and compatibility, helping you make an informed decision and enjoy your telescope from day one.
The Orion StarBlast II is designed for user-friendly setup. The equatorial mount and tripod assemble in minutes without special tools. The included guide walks you through aligning the finder scope and basic telescope balancing for smooth operation.
With a maximum magnification of 228x, this telescope is excellent for observing the Moon’s craters and mountains, the rings of Saturn, Jupiter’s moons and cloud bands, and brighter deep-sky objects like the Orion Nebula and star clusters.
For best results, observe from a dark location away from city lights. Allow your telescope and eyes 20-30 minutes to adapt to the darkness. Always start with low-power eyepieces to find your target, then switch to higher magnification for detail.
The telescope requires minimal maintenance. Always replace lens caps after use to protect optics. For storage, keep it in a dry place and avoid touching the mirrors. The tripod and mount have moving parts that may need occasional gentle cleaning.
The kit includes two eyepieces and a Shorty 2x Barlow lens, which work with the telescope’s 1.25-inch focuser. This allows you to achieve different magnifications, from a wide 18x up to the maximum 228x, for versatile viewing.
The Orion StarBlast II is an ideal first telescope for adults and older children interested in astronomy. It offers a significant step up from department-store scopes with its quality optics and stable mount, providing a rewarding and frustration-free experience.
A person assembling the Orion StarBlast II telescope mount and tripod in a living room.
A close-up of the Orion StarBlast II telescope's focuser knob being adjusted by a hand.
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