Telescopes Antitrust Settlement Approved – If you bought a Celestron, Meade, Orion, Sky-Watcher, or Zhumell telescope in the United States between January 1, 2005, and September 6, 2023, you could be eligible for a cash payment as part of a newly approved $32 million antitrust settlement. The settlement stems from allegations that key telescope manufacturers engaged in price-fixing and anti-competitive practices that drove up costs for consumers.
The good news? You don’t need a receipt to file a claim — and filing is quick and simple. But the deadline is fast approaching, so don’t delay.
Telescopes Antitrust Settlement Approved
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Settlement Name | Telescopes Antitrust Litigation Settlement |
| Eligible Products | Telescopes by Celestron, Meade, Orion, Sky-Watcher, Zhumell |
| Purchase Period | January 1, 2005 – September 6, 2023 |
| Eligible States | 33 states + District of Columbia (Full list below) |
| Total Settlement Amount | $32 million |
| Deadline to File a Claim | May 20, 2025 |
| Official Website | www.telescopesettlement.com |
| Proof of Purchase Required? | No (but verification may be requested later) |
| Estimated Payout | Varies based on the number of valid claims |
| Contact for Questions | [email protected] or 1-833-419-3506 |
If you purchased a telescope from Celestron, Meade, Orion, Sky-Watcher, or Zhumell anytime between 2005 and 2023, this is your chance to get money back — no receipt needed. With a $32 million fund approved and a simple online form, there’s no reason not to file. The deadline is May 20, 2025, so don’t miss out.
What Is the Telescopes Antitrust Settlement All About?
This class action lawsuit alleged that Ningbo Sunny, Synta Technology, and affiliated telescope brands like Celestron and Meade illegally conspired to fix prices, eliminate competition, and manipulate the U.S. telescope market. According to court documents, these companies formed an unlawful agreement to prevent competition and maintain artificially high prices, violating antitrust laws in multiple states.
While the companies involved have denied wrongdoing, they have agreed to settle the case to avoid prolonged litigation.
The result? A $32 million fund created to compensate eligible consumers across the U.S.
Who Is Eligible to File a Claim For Telescopes Antitrust Settlement ?
To qualify for a payout, you must meet the following criteria:
Basic Eligibility
- You purchased a telescope made by any of these brands: Celestron, Meade, Orion, Sky-Watcher, or Zhumell
- The purchase occurred between January 1, 2005, and September 6, 2023
- You bought the telescope while residing in one of 33 eligible states or the District of Columbia
- The telescope was bought from a third-party retailer or distributor, not directly from the manufacturer
Eligible U.S. States and Jurisdictions
Arizona, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
Step-by-Step: How to File a Claim For Telescopes Antitrust Settlement
Filing a claim is a quick and easy process — and you can do it online in just a few minutes.
Option 1: File Online
- Visit the official site: www.telescopesettlement.com
- Click on “File a Claim”
- Enter your name, address, email, and details about your telescope purchase
- If you received a claim number by email or postcard, you can use it — but it’s not required
- Submit the form before May 20, 2025
Option 2: File by Mail
If you prefer a paper form:
Call the Settlement Administrator at 1-833-419-3506
Request a paper form and fill it out
Mail it to:
Telescopes Antitrust Litigation Settlement Administrator
P.O. Box 301172
Los Angeles, CA 90030-1172
Make sure your form is postmarked by May 20, 2025.
How Much Money Will You Get?
That depends on a few key factors:
- How many valid claims are submitted
- How many telescopes you purchased
- The size of your state’s share of the settlement fund
Because no receipts are required, the amount may be modest, but potentially worth your time. In past settlements like this, payouts have ranged from $10 to $125 or more per claim.
If you file multiple claims (e.g., for multiple purchases), your payout may be higher. But remember, false claims could disqualify you or delay payments for everyone.
When Will You Get Paid?
Settlement payments are expected to be distributed after the Final Approval Hearing and once all claims are verified. Based on court timelines, this could happen late 2025 or early 2026.
Keep an eye on your email or mailbox for updates from the Settlement Administrator.
Important Deadlines You Should Know
- Claim Filing Deadline: May 20, 2025
- Opt-Out or Objection Deadline: February 13, 2025
- Final Approval Hearing: April 3, 2025
If you miss the claim deadline, you will not receive compensation.
Can You Opt Out or Object?
Yes. If you don’t want to be part of the settlement, you can opt out by submitting a request by February 13, 2025. This is useful if you want to retain the right to sue the companies independently.
You can also object to the terms of the settlement — for example, if you think the amount is unfair or want to suggest changes. Objections must also be filed by the same date.
More details on how to opt out or object are available on the official site: www.telescopesettlement.com
What Happens After the Settlement?
Once all objections are heard and the court gives final approval, the funds will be disbursed. After this, claimants will be notified of the payout timeline. Any unclaimed funds may go to public interest or consumer protection groups, depending on the court’s order.
Consumers should also remain alert for phishing scams pretending to be from the settlement administrator. Always verify emails by checking they come from the official domain.
Why This Matters to Consumers?
This case highlights a growing concern: big companies allegedly working behind the scenes to stifle competition and overcharge consumers. By participating in this settlement, you’re not just reclaiming your money — you’re standing up for fair market practices.
Class action lawsuits like this one are critical tools in ensuring consumer rights are protected. When companies face consequences for anti-competitive behavior, the entire marketplace becomes more honest, open, and affordable.
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FAQs About Telescopes Antitrust Settlement
Q1. I don’t have a receipt. Can I still file?
Yes. No proof of purchase is required when filing a claim, but you may be asked to verify details later.
Q2. Can I file if I bought my telescope on Amazon or Walmart?
Yes, as long as it was a third-party seller and not a direct manufacturer sale.
Q3. What if I don’t remember the exact model?
That’s okay. Just give your best estimate of the brand and time frame of purchase.
Q4. How will I get paid?
You can choose check or digital payment (like PayPal or Venmo) when filing your claim.
Q5. Can I submit multiple claims?
Yes, but only if you made multiple eligible purchases.
Q6. Will I be taxed on the payout?
Most likely not, but consult a tax professional if you’re unsure.
Q7. How can I track my claim status?
Visit www.telescopesettlement.com and click on “Check Status” or contact the administrator.
Q8. Is this a scam?
No. This is a legitimate court-approved settlement. But always verify emails and never share personal info unless you are on the official site.
