Celestron UpClose G2 16x32 binoculars

I want to add a series of articles on LP over the next few months, both about classical binoculars and also a bit about astronomy. The first article will focus on the relatively new Celestron UpClose G2 16x32. I consider this series to be very good value for money and can always recommend it.

The UpClose G2 16x32 is still a "small" scope despite its impressive magnification. The 369g weight allows you to wear it around your neck all day long, making it exactly the kind of binocular to take with you on an outdoor expedition if you want to keep observing something all the time.
The design of the binoculars is very simple and durable. The size fits in a jacket pocket and despite its magnification it is simply inexpensive.

There are currently 9 models of the UpClose series on sale and we will surely eventually get to the G2 10-30x50, 10x50 and 10x25 models

Design

The Celstron UpClose G2 16x32 has a very economical design considering its magnification. It uses roof prisms in a straight line lengthwise and the two are connected by a hinge. The hinges are larger than you would expect, basically the same as the 50t scopes in the same series. So the design is actually a pair of binoculars with high resolution but relatively small objectives.

The magnification of the binoculars is really impressive for the price, on the other hand the 32mm objective lens size causes lower light transmission than the larger 50tk. It follows that the impressive behaviour of the binoculars will be mainly on bright days, in low light it will be only average and at night it will be weaker.

SPECIFICATIONS OF CELESTRON UPCLOSE G2 16X32 BINOCULARS

Magnification: 16x
Objective lens diameter: 32 mm
Field of view at 1000 m: 62 m
Closest focusing distance: 8 m
Eye relief: 10 mm
Weight: 369 g
Dimensions: 91 x 56 x 142 mm

Celestron UpClose G2 16x32 binoculars are durable and well made binoculars. With the entire UpClose line, the emphasis is on magnification while maintaining the best possible price (as if they were designing it for the Czechs). The binoculars are waterproof and rubberized to withstand both light drizzle and rain.
(while the manufacturer does not specify waterproofness, there is no problem to use them in such weather). Even though Celestron doesn't list any drop resistance, some of the more unlucky drops will certainly be withstood. The lenses are also slightly recessed into the body of the binoculars, so there should be no scratches.

Reviews

The binoculars work nicely in the field, are lightweight and can be worn all day. Optical use has its slight limitations. Due to the high magnification, everything up to about 8 meters is not quite right. On the other hand, you can expect nice results when birdwatching 20-30 meters away, for example, when the result has a nice contrast.

I used the binoculars during my wanderings in the Bohemian Forest. Under reasonable lighting conditions you get a very decent image even with distant buildings and hills. However, the contrast is already lower and the brightness of the image decreases depending on the light.

Due to the smaller lens, it is not very suitable for astronomical use. Except perhaps for moon viewing, which is quite decent contrast. So if the telescope is to be used for night observation, I would rather look at the UpCloseG2 10x50.

Astroman

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