20x fixed magnification Dual 10x eyepieces with adjustable interpupillary distance 2x stereo objective lens Upper LED illuminator for 3D objects Powered by two included AA batteries Includes two prepared insect specimens Description FAQ Specifications In the Box Downloads Warranty Celestron Labs S20 Stereo Microscope The Celestron Labs S20 Stereo Microscope delivers a fixed 20x magnification through its dual 10x eyepieces and 2x stereo objective. This introductory instrument is powered by two AA batteries for field use and includes two bug specimens to begin observations immediately. The upper LED provides direct illumination for examining three-dimensional objects, with a coarse rack and pinion focuser offering 33mm of travel per rotation. Fixed 20x Magnification for 3D Objects The S20 is engineered for one specific task: providing a clear, three-dimensional view of everyday objects at 20x power. This fixed magnification is achieved by combining two 10x wide-field eyepieces with a 2x stereo objective lens. This level of power is ideal for revealing the texture on a leaf, the facets of an insect's eye, or the crystalline structure of a small rock without the complexity of multiple objectives. The stereo head allows for true binocular vision, creating a sense of depth that is impossible with a standard biological microscope. The interpupillary distance is adjustable, allowing you to align the 30mm diameter eyepieces perfectly with your eyes for a comfortable, merged view. Upper LED Illumination and 33mm Focus Travel Designed for opaque, solid objects, the Celestron S20 features a top-down LED illuminator. This upper light source shines directly onto the specimen, highlighting surface details that would be invisible with transmitted light. The white stage plate provides a high-contrast background for most subjects. Focusing is managed by a rack-and-pinion mechanism with coarse adjustment only, providing 33mm of travel with each turn of the knob. This straightforward system is simple to operate and provides enough range to bring objects of varying heights into sharp focus. The limitation is precision; it's designed for low-power viewing, not the fine adjustments required for high-magnification work. AA Battery Power for Field Use The S20's LED illuminator is powered by two AA batteries, making it a completely portable instrument. This freedom from wall outlets means you can take the microscope directly to the source, whether in the backyard, on a nature trail, or in a classroom without convenient power access. Its lightweight construction further enhances its suitability for students and hobbyists on the move. Cordless Operation: Powered by two included AA batteries for maximum portability. Instant Discovery: Includes two professionally prepared insect specimens encased in clear plastic, allowing for detailed viewing right out of the box. Removable Stage Plate: While the microscope includes upper lighting, the stage plate can be removed to allow for illumination from below with a user-supplied light source. What kind of objects is the Celestron Labs S20 best for viewing? The S20 excels at viewing small, three-dimensional objects where surface detail is important. Its 20x magnification is ideal for things like insects, leaves, small rocks and minerals, textiles, coins, and stamps. It is not designed for viewing microscope slides with transparent specimens. Can I change the magnification on the S20 microscope? No, the Celestron Labs S20 has a fixed magnification of 20x. The two 10x eyepieces and the 2x objective lens are not interchangeable. This design simplifies operation, making it a great choice for beginners, students, or for dedicated inspection tasks. How do I power the Celestron S20's LED light? The microscope's upper LED illuminator is powered by two AA batteries, which are included in the box. There is no option for an AC adapter, making it a fully portable, battery-operated device. What does "stereo" microscope mean for the S20? A stereo microscope, like the S20, uses two separate optical paths—one for each eye—to create a true three-dimensional image with depth perception. This is different from a compound or biological microscope that provides a flat, 2D view, and is why stereo microscopes are used for viewing solid objects. Is the focus difficult to use on the Celestron Labs S20? The S20 uses a "coarse focus only" rack and pinion system. At 20x magnification, a fine focus knob is not necessary. The large coarse focus knob provides 33mm of travel, making it easy and quick to bring your specimen into a sharp view. Can I use the S20 to view pond water organisms or prepared slides? Not effectively. The S20 is designed for opaque objects using its upper illuminator. While you can remove the stage plate and supply your own bottom light, its low 20x magnification is generally insufficient for viewing microorganisms in pond water or the cellular detail on most prepared slides, which typically require 40x to 400x magnification. Microscope Type Stereo Head Stereo, vertical with adjustable interpupillary distance Eyepiece Magnification (2) 10x Eyepiece Diameter 30mm (1.18") Objective Magnification 2x (Dual stereo, Greenough design) Magnification 20x Focus System Rack and pinion, coarse focus only Focus Travel (per rotation) 33mm (1.29") Illumination Upper LED Power Source (2) AA Batteries (Included) Stage Removable white plastic plate Included Specimens 2 bug specimens (encased in clear plastic) Celestron S20 Stereo Microscope × 1 Insect Specimens × 2 AA Batteries × 2 Download Celestron Labs S20 Manual Celestron 2-Year Warranty
