A growing number of amateur astronomers in the United States are reporting that AliExpress, once a go-to source for affordable astronomy gear, is no longer a viable marketplace. Rising prices, shipping restrictions, and uncertainty around new U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports have made it increasingly difficult for hobbyists to source equipment from the platform.
The issue was first raised in a widely discussed thread on the Cloudy Nights forum, where one user noted a sharp decline in product availability and affordability. “At this point, it’s no longer a viable market for astronomy gear for U.S.-based buyers,” they wrote, citing disappearing listings and inflated prices.
Tariffs and Trade Policy Disruptions
The shift appears to be driven in large part by recent changes to U.S. trade policy, including the removal of the de minimis exemption for Chinese imports. This exemption previously allowed low-value shipments (under $800) to enter the U.S. without incurring tariffs. Its removal has introduced new costs and delays for buyers and sellers alike.
Major brands like Celestron and ZWO are no longer shipping to the U.S., and that many U.S. retailers are now relying on existing warehouse stock, which is quickly depleting. Many items are reportedly unavailable for purchase until there is clarity from federal trade authorities.
Disappearing Listings and Price Surges
Some have reported that brands like SvBony, Sky Rover, and even Explore Scientific are either no longer listed on AliExpress or are marked as unavailable for U.S. shipping. Even when listings appear, they often vanish at checkout or are accompanied by high shipping fees.
“I used to be able to get a decent planetary camera or eyepiece for half the U.S. price,” one user lamented. “Now, either the listings are gone, or the price is the same as buying it locally.”
Some users have managed to beat the price hikes—barely. “I ordered the ZWO CAA and a week later the price went up $50,” said one buyer. “Fortunately, I just beat the tariffs, but I had to wonder if the price I purchased it at would go up retroactively.”
Domestic Market Strains
The ripple effects are being felt across the U.S. astronomy market. With fewer imports and rising costs, domestic retailers are struggling to keep up with demand. “I just bought an AM5N before the price shot through the roof once the new stock hits the ports,” shared another user.
Some hobbyists are turning to second-hand markets or local astronomy clubs to find gear at reasonable prices. Others are simply postponing purchases, hoping for policy reversals or market stabilization.
A Hobby in Transition
Despite the challenges, the community remains resilient. “Astronomy can still be meaningful without expensive gear,” one user noted. “A decent pair of binoculars and a clear night sky can go a long way.”
Still, the uncertainty surrounding tariffs and international shipping has cast a shadow over what was once a thriving global marketplace for amateur astronomers. As one user put it: “We’re in a holding pattern. Until the dust settles, it’s hard to know where to buy—or what anything should cost.”
