What is it?

It’s an Orion StarBlast 4.5″ Altazimuth Reflector telescope. Portable but sturdy. Great for star parties. We have two of these telescopes for lending thanks to the Friends of IPL and the Aldrich Astronomical Society. To accompany this item in its sturdy case and pillows, we have included a welcome guide and a fanny pack on the item with two books and a headlamp.

Please do not look directly at the sun using telescope.

Who is it for?

Anyone who’s interested in amateur astronomy. Especially good for seeing the moon’s craters up close, or for seeing the Galilean satellites orbiting Jupiter.

What is included?

This kit includes:

• 1 Orion StarBlast 4.5″ Altazimuth Reflector Telescope (within Sterilite carrying case with two pillows)
• 1 celestial-patterned fanny pack (kept on telescope, contains the below four items)
  • 1 Energizer red/white light headlamp (with adjustable strap)
  • 1 lens cleaner pen
  • 1 copy of National Audubon Society Pocket Guide: Constellations (2017)
  • 1 copy of the ACOP (Aldrich Community Outreach Program) Instruction Manual
• 1 copy of the “Telescope Welcome Packet” guide (laminated sheets on key ring)

How does it work?

The included instruction packet should tell you all you need to know to get started. For a digital copy of the welcome packet, click HERE. For a digital copy of the manufacturer’s instruction manual, click HERE. (Please do not attempt major repairs or calibrations on your own, even if fix is listed in the manual, as the telescopes should be ready for use without large adjustments. Contact library staff if there is a major issue with the telescope.)

What you need

No batteries needed. For stargazing, you’ll need a clear night, preferably in a rural area with little light pollution.

The Fine Print

• This kit may be borrowed for one week. One renewal is permitted, provided there are no reserves waiting.
• Borrower must be a MVLC library card holder with an account in good standing.
• Must be picked-up and returned to the Ipswich Public Library Circulation Desk.
• The kit will remain on borrower’s account until a staff member is able to check kit condition.
• Fines may be issued for both missing/damaged kit parts or for the loss/damaging of the whole kit. The total replacement cost for this kit is $350.00.