Terms & Conditions

These Terms & Conditions (“Terms”) govern all purchases of telescopes (refractors, reflectors, starter kits, pro-grade models), telescope accessories (eyepieces, tripods, smartphone adapters, carrying cases), and related services (virtual consultations, stargazing event registrations, technical support) (collectively “Products/Services”) from SkyLens Optics (“Company,” “we,” “us”). By placing an order via our website, retail store, authorized dealers, or customer service, you (“Customer,” “you”) agree to these Terms, our Privacy Policy, and any attached product manuals or service agreements.

1. Order Acceptance & Modifications

Your order constitutes a request to purchase Products/Services. We reserve the right to accept, reject, or adjust orders if: (a) Products are out of stock (due to supply chain delays or high demand for limited-edition models); (b) Customizations (e.g., engraved telescope bodies, specialized eyepiece bundles) are unfeasible; or (c) Technical discrepancies exist (e.g., misstated product specs due to website errors). A binding contract is formed only when we issue a written order confirmation (email or signed document) detailing items, quantities, specs (e.g., aperture size, lens type), total cost (including taxes, shipping, and service fees), delivery timelines, and deposit requirements (if applicable).
Post-confirmation modifications (e.g., upgrading from a StarterScope to a Hobbyist model, adding a GoTo system) must be submitted in writing within 24 hours. We will confirm feasibility and any cost/timeline changes (e.g., $75–$200 for hardware upgrades, 3–5 business days for custom accessory bundles). For custom or pro-grade orders (e.g., large-aperture telescopes with personalized setups), modifications are prohibited once production/assembly begins (typically 2 business days post-confirmation); cancellations incur forfeiture of the 25% non-refundable deposit.

2. Product Specifications & Compliance

All SkyLens telescopes meet industry optical standards: refractors use ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass (per ISO 12233 for image sharpness); reflectors feature precision-ground mirrors (98% light transmittance); and GoTo systems comply with IEEE 802.11 for wireless star-tracking accuracy. Product pages and manuals clearly list key specs: aperture size, focal length, weight, compatible accessories, and skill level (beginner/hobbyist/pro). Minor cosmetic variations (e.g., subtle differences in tripod finish) are normal and do not constitute defects.
You are responsible for verifying that Products comply with local regulations (e.g., drone-mounted telescope adapters meeting aviation rules in your region). We provide compliance guidelines but are not liable for fines or penalties resulting from non-compliance.

3. Payment Terms

  • Methods: We accept major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), debit cards, PayPal, and Apple Pay. For pro-grade orders over $1,500, bank transfers or certified checks are also accepted.
  • Deposits: A 25% non-refundable deposit is required for custom/pro-grade orders; standard in-stock Products require full payment at checkout (no deposit needed).
  • Pricing: All prices are listed in U.S. dollars and exclude applicable sales tax, shipping fees, and optional services (e.g., $50 for 1-on-1 virtual setup consultations). Quotes are valid for 14 days; prices may adjust due to fluctuations in raw material costs (e.g., optical glass) or currency exchange rates (for international orders).
  • Late Payments: For orders with payment plans (pro-grade only), unpaid balances incur a 1.5% monthly late fee. We may delay delivery or cancel orders (forfeiting deposits) if payment is 14+ days overdue.

4. Shipping & Delivery

  • Domestic Shipping: Standard shipping (3–5 business days) is free for orders over $200; otherwise, fees range from $15–$45 (based on weight: e.g., $15 for StarterScope kits, $45 for pro-grade telescopes). Expedited shipping (1–2 business days) is available for $30–$75. All telescopes are shipped in padded, impact-resistant boxes with lens/mirror protectors.
  • International Shipping: Available to select countries; fees range from $50–$200 (based on destination and weight). Customers are responsible for customs duties, taxes, and import fees (we provide commercial invoices for clearance).
  • Inspection: Inspect Products immediately upon delivery. Note damage (e.g., cracked lenses, bent tripods) on the delivery receipt, take photos of the packaging and Product, and notify us within 24 hours. We will replace damaged items free of charge or issue a full refund; failure to report damage within 24 hours voids coverage.

5. Warranties & Returns

  • Warranties: All telescopes include a 2-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects (e.g., faulty mirrors, malfunctioning GoTo systems) and a 1-year warranty for accessories. The warranty does not cover: (a) damage from misuse (e.g., dropping the telescope, using non-SkyLens eyepieces); (b) normal wear (e.g., scratched tripod legs); (c) damage from extreme weather (e.g., rain damage to uncovered optics); or (d) unauthorized repairs.
  • Returns: Standard in-stock Products (unused, in original packaging, with all parts) may be returned within 30 days for a full refund (minus shipping fees). Custom/pro-grade orders are non-returnable unless defective (verified by our optical technicians), in which case we replace the Product or issue a refund. Return shipping costs are the customer’s responsibility (except for defective items, where we cover costs).

6. Limitation of Liability

Our total liability for any claim (e.g., defective optics, delayed shipping) shall not exceed the total amount paid for the affected Product/Service. We are not liable for indirect damages, including: (a) loss of use (e.g., missed stargazing events due to delayed delivery); (b) incidental costs (e.g., travel expenses for a canceled stargazing trip); or (c) damage to personal property (e.g., a dropped smartphone while using a telescope adapter).