FREE SOLDIER 80mm Aperture 500mm Refractor Telescope - Beginner

In this review of the FREE SOLDIER 80mm refractor telescope the bottom line is simple: it is a capable beginner instrument that puts noticeably better optics into an affordable package. The telescope is clearly aimed at adults and novices who want to start stargazing or observe the moon and planets without a steep learning curve. Setup is straightforward and the included phone adapter and wireless remote make casual astrophotography accessible, while the 80mm aperture and multi-coated optics deliver brighter views than very cheap alternatives.

Key Features

• 80mm aperture: Collects a significant amount of light for an entry-level refractor, improving brightness when viewing the moon and brighter planets.
• 500mm focal length: Provides a practical balance of magnification and field of view for planetary and lunar observing with the supplied eyepieces.
• Three Plossl eyepieces: PL4, PL10 and PL20 offer a useful range of magnifications for close planetary detail and wider scenic views.
• Multi-coated optics: Coatings increase light transmission and reduce chromatic aberration so images look clearer and less tinted at the edges.
• Adjustable tripod and 360 rotating zenith lens: The stable adjustable tripod and rotating head produce comfortable viewing positions for adults of different heights.
• Phone adapter and wireless remote: Makes it easy to capture and share images of the moon or terrestrial subjects without needing advanced gear.

Who It's For

The FREE SOLDIER 80mm refractor is best for beginners and casual observers who want a straightforward telescope that is relatively simple to assemble and use for backyard astronomy. Adults who value portability and the convenience of an included phone adapter will appreciate being able to photograph lunar craters and bright planets.

More experienced amateur astronomers seeking high-end optics, professional-grade tracking, or deep-sky performance should look elsewhere, as a larger aperture and equatorial mount would be needed for serious long-exposure imaging or faint nebulae work.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Good light gathering for an entry-level scope due to the 80mm aperture.
• Three Plossl eyepieces provide a practical magnification range for learning telescope use.
• Included phone adapter and wireless remote simplify casual astrophotography and sharing images.
• Adjustable tripod and 360 rotating zenith lens make observing more comfortable for adults.

Cons

• Build quality can feel lightweight and some users report stability and alignment issues with the optical tube and mount.
• Image quality receives mixed feedback; while coatings help, the scope will not match higher-end refractors for fine planetary detail.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The FREE SOLDIER 80mm refractor is a solid entry-level telescope for adults who want a straightforward observing experience and the ability to capture simple phone images. It offers better optics than toy scopes and useful accessories, but buyers should accept some limitations in build stability and ultimate image fidelity. For casual stargazers and beginners it represents good value and an easy way to start observing the moon and planets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this telescope good for beginners?
Yes. The 80mm aperture, three eyepieces, and easy setup make it well suited for adults new to astronomy.

Can I take photos with my phone?
Yes. A universal phone adapter and wireless remote are included to make basic lunar and planetary photos simple.

Will it show deep-sky objects clearly?
No. The scope performs best on the moon, planets, and bright star clusters; deep-sky viewing of faint nebulae will be limited by aperture and mount.