Explore FirstLight 114mm Newtonian Telescope with Twilight Nano Mount

I got this scope for an extended family member whose family is interested in astronomy. Along with it I included a Celestron 32mm Plossl, a Meade shorty Barlow, a set of Meade aspheric EP's (23, 10 and 4mm), a GSO laser collimator, copies of Turn Left at Orion and Smithsonian's Star Finder, and a 16" Guide to the Stars Planisphere. I also wrote them a guide to using the different accessories, including a chart listing the power rendered with each eyepiece and the True Field Of View with each, and also how to calculate these things themselves. I didn't want to leave them in the frustrating position of having a scope without having the necessary additional equipment to make it truly perform...but I did forget a moon filter...(kick self square in the you know what for that! LOL).
Since receiving the kit a few days ago, they've already had it out twice that I know of and they absolutely love it.
I had considered getting them a table top "Dob" scope since they have two small children, but reasoned that both a Dob and the Twilight Nano mount are alt-az mounts, and the Twilight Nano's tripod eliminates the need to lug around an additional table or stand that may not be very stable. The kids use a step stool to look through the eyepiece, and the whole setup works quite well for them!

I bought this telescope after researching many brands, types, and specs.. I was looking for a telescope with crisp optics for astrophotography that didn't break my very small bank for my first one. This telescope more than impressed me in many ways. I got it with the Exos Nano EQ3 tripod, red dot finder, 25mm eyepiece, and phone adapter. I didn't need the included instructions to put it all together and it took very little time to complete assembly. It came in 2 days earlier than expected and although the carrier service just about destroyed the outer box, the boxes Explore Scientific provided kept everything safe and intact. Because of weather conditions I was only able to photograph the sun so far using a home made sun filter and let me say the images are crisp, clear, and greatly detailed. I also used a 2x Barlow adapter bought separately. The focuser is smooth and accurate as are the controls on the tripod which is strong and sturdy. It is also a beautiful telescope to look at. I would recommend this telescope for anyone looking to get into astrophotography with it's 4.3 focal ratio and light gathering capabilities and fully endorse Explore Scientific. I only wish I worked for them to be around all they offer the space exploring community. Great product, great price, and I can't wait to "Explore" the universe. Thank you for all that awaits my eyes.

Awesome telescope I purchase 3 for my grandchildren, they loved it. I gave it to them for Christmas it was a hit 👍👏👏👏Hopefully they'll have many good memories together.