Celestron Ultima 8x56

5.0 Celestron made in Japan Ultima 8x56 binoculars

Sharp optics, very light weight, minimal focus shift

Hard to find now

I am always on the lookout for a great pair of astronomy binoculars to have as my companion when observing. I have tested a number of fine binoculars such as Carton 10x50, Orion Vista and ultrawide 10x50's, the Orion explorer 10X50 and even owned a Swift ED 8.5x44 ultralites. All of those binoculars (except the Orion Explorer) were excellent binoculars. I had stabilization issues with all the 10X50's. I just could not keep my hands steady enough to enjoy the fantastic views offered by them. Though the Carton was the lightest and most ergonomically gratifying of the 10x50s I used, still I could not enjoy the images due to a slight shake and with 10 power that slight shake or unsteadiness in holding them drove me nuts. Yes a tripod was the answer, but I wanted a pair I could hand hold!!.

A few years back I saw a pair of Celestron Ultima 8x56 binos at the Stellafane swap tables. I tried them and they were perfect. Easy to hold, very sharp optics, very light in weight. After discussing with some of my astro buddies, I decided that being over 40, my pupils would not dilate enough to enjoy the generous 7mm exit pupil. So I passed on that pair. But I kept thinking of them, how sharp and lightweight they were. So I made the plunge, and purchased a new pair and have been in heaven since.

I since sold my Swift 8.5X44 ED, since I was always afraid of taking them to star parties and loosing them - "ouch" I thought, if I forgot my pair of $450 binoculars at a star party!! Well these Japanese made Celestron 8x56 Ultimas (not to be confused with the 8x56 DX Ultima made in China) are an awesome astronomical binocular. Very sharp, almost to the edge, great light grasp, easy to hold, and well constructed. I highly recommend a pair.

A testimonial to these fine binoculars. Last night I observed Comet McNaught about 7 to 10 degrees above the horizon with my 8x56 Ultima and 15X70 multicoated "Chinese" made binoculars. The comet was more detailed in the Ultimas, the tail was brighter and showed fanning in its structure. I was amazed how more clearly I observed that comet with the "smaller" Ultimas.

Bob Midiri