The Best Telescopes 2025

1. Celestron NexStar 5SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron’s signature orange-tube telescope combines advanced features and excellent optics in one easy-to-use system, the NexStar 5SE. It’s the perfect choice for your first serious telescope, offering striking views at an economical price. Our Founder’s Vision, Reimagined for the 21st Century In the 1970s, Celestron’s Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes brought the hobby of astronomy to the masses and established Celestron as the world’s premier telescope maker. Our founder, Tom Johnson, invented Celestron’s proprietary method of producing Schmidt corrector plates for superior views and maximum portability. Johnson believed in creating high-quality optical instruments at an affordable price, and inspired a generation of amateur astronomers. Four decades later, we’ve improved upon this design by adding cutting-edge features, while staying true to our founder’s intent. View the Universe’s Most Impressive Celestial Objects The 5SE’s five-inch primary mirror packs enough light-gathering ability to observe the best that the solar system has to offer: Saturn’s rings, the cloud bands on Jupiter, and geographic features on the surface of the Moon. When it comes to deep sky objects, take your 5SE to a dark-sky site and you’ll see hundreds of pinpoint stars in the Hercules Globular Cluster, the spiral arms of the Whirlpool Galaxy, and more. Revolutionary Single Fork Arm Mount We know the best telescope is the one you will use most often. That’s why Celestron’s engineers created NexStar SE’s unique, patented single fork arm mount. It’s perfectly portable and makes setup quick and easy. What’s more, the NexStar SE breaks down into several lightweight and compact pieces, making it easy to transport, even in small vehicles. You’ll have no problem getting the NexStar SE to your favorite observing site, or setting it up quickly in your backyard. Of course, it’s what’s inside the mount that really counts. Sturdy construction from high-quality components give NexStar SE the pointing and tracking accuracy needed to observe and follow your favorite targets with push-button ease. Use the included NexStar+ hand control to locate over 40,000 celestial objects, or take a Sky Tour and let your telescope show you the best objects currently visible. Aligning your telescope is simple and painless, too, thanks to SkyAlign. This process makes alignment as easy as 1-2-3: just center three bright objects in your eyepiece and press ALIGN. For even easier alignment, attach our StarSense AutoAlign and your NexStar SE aligns itself! Advanced Features Let the NexStar SE Grow with You The NexStar SE is compatible with all the high-tech accessories advanced users love. Provide GPS coordinates to your telescope with SkySync, or add automatic alignment functionality with StarSense AutoAlign. If you want to explore the world of astroimaging, the 5SE is a perfect choice. Its built-in wedge allows you to track long exposures. You can even remove the telescope’s secondary mirror and replace it with a DSLR or astronomical CCD camera for wide field images captured at f/2 using a Fastar/HyperStar lens assembly. Or, if you’re interested in imaging the Moon and planets, pair your NexStar 5SE with one of our Skyris cameras. From your first observing session and for years to come, the NexStar SE is your trusted companion.

Celestron’s iconic “orange tube” design is updated with all the latest features to provide the best stargazing experience for beginners and experienced observers alike. 5-inch aperture provides excellent light-gathering ability at an affordable price. You’ll get impressive views of the Moon and planets, along with deep sky objects like the Orion Nebula, while retaining a compact form factor. Fully automated GoTo mount with database of 40,000+ celestial objects automatically locates and tracks objects for you. SkyAlign technology gets your telescope aligned and ready to observe in minutes. Even if you’re unfamiliar with the night sky, you can easily align your telescope on any three bright objects. Unique single fork arm design and sturdy steel tripod all break down into separate components for easy transport and quick assembly.

2. Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope with Communication Device, Intact Black Orange

Celestron’s signature orange-tube telescope combines advanced features and excellent optics in one easy-to-use system, the NexStar 8SE. It’s the perfect choice for your first serious telescope, offering impressive views at an economical price. Our Founder’s Vision, Reimagined for the 21st Century In the 1970s, the classic Celestron 8 brought the hobby of astronomy to the masses and established Celestron as the world’s premier telescope maker. Our founder, Tom Johnson, invented Celestron’s proprietary method of producing Schmidt corrector plates for superior views and maximum portability. Johnson believed in creating high-quality optical instruments at an affordable price, and inspired a generation of amateur astronomers. Four decades later, we’ve improved upon this design by adding cutting-edge features, while staying true to our founder’s intent. Big Mirror, Small Price With a full 8 inches of aperture, the 8SE reveals details in even the faintest celestial objects. With this much light-gathering ability, you’ll clearly observe Cassini’s Division in Saturn’s rings, the cloud bands on Jupiter, and the Great Red Spot. Beyond the solar system, your 8SE will show you hundreds of pinpoint stars in the Hercules Globular Cluster, the spiral arms of the Whirlpool Galaxy, and more. And don’t forget the Moon—you’ll see craters and geographic features like never before. Revolutionary Single Fork Arm Mount We know the best telescope is the one you will use most often. That’s why Celestron’s engineers created NexStar SE’s unique, patented single fork arm mount. It’s perfectly portable and makes setup quick and easy. What’s more, the NexStar SE breaks down into several lightweight and compact pieces, making it easy to transport, even in small vehicles. You’ll have no problem getting the NexStar SE to your favorite observing site, or setting it up quickly in your backyard. Of course, it’s what’s inside the mount that really counts. Sturdy construction from high-quality components give NexStar SE the pointing and tracking accuracy needed to observe and follow your favorite targets with pushbutton ease. Use the included NexStar+ hand control to locate over 40,000 celestial objects, or take a Sky Tour and let your telescope show you the best objects currently visible. Aligning your telescope is simple and painless, too, thanks to SkyAlign. This process makes alignment as easy as 1-2-3: just center three bright objects in your eyepiece and press ALIGN. For even easier alignment, attach our StarSense AutoAlign and your NexStar SE aligns itself! Advanced Features Let the NexStar SE Grow with You The NexStar SE is compatible with all the high-tech accessories advanced users love. Control your telescope using your iPhone or iPad with our SkyQ Link, or add GPS functionality with SkySync. If you’re interested in astroimaging, the NexStar SE is Fastar-compatible for ultra-fast, wide field imaging. For planetary imaging, there’s no better choice than a NexStar 8SE paired with one of our Skyris cameras. From your first observing session and for years to come, the NexStar SE is your trusted companion.

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope with Communication Device, Intact Black Orange Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope with Communication Device, Intact Black Orange Iconic 8to inch Schmidt-Cassegrain design, perfect for both beginners and experienced astronomers Large 8-inch aperture provides excellent ligh gathering ability for spectacular views of the Moon, planets, and deep sky objects Fully automated GoTo mount with a database of over 40,000 celestial objects for easy locating and tracking SkyAlign technology allows for quick alignment using any three bright objects, making setup simple and fast

3. Celestron NexStar 6SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron’s signature orange-tube telescope combines advanced features and excellent optics in one easy-to-use system, the NexStar 6SE. It’s the perfect choice for your first serious telescope, offering striking views at an economical price. Our Founder’s Vision, Reimagined for the 21st Century In the 1970s, Celestron’s Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes brought the hobby of astronomy to the masses and established Celestron as the world’s premier telescope maker. Our founder, Tom Johnson, invented Celestron’s proprietary method of producing Schmidt corrector plates for superior views and maximum portability. Johnson believed in creating high-quality optical instruments at an affordable price, and inspired a generation of amateur astronomers. Four decades later, we’ve improved upon this design by adding cutting-edge features, while staying true to our founder’s intent. View the Universe’s Most Impressive Celestial Objects The 6SE’s six-inch primary mirror packs enough light-gathering ability to observe the best that the solar system has to offer: Cassini’s Division in Saturn’s rings, the cloud bands on Jupiter, and geographic features on the surface of the Moon. When it comes to deep sky objects, take your 6SE to a dark-sky site and you’ll see hundreds of pinpoint stars in the Hercules Globular Cluster, the spiral arms of the Whirlpool Galaxy, and more. Revolutionary Single Fork Arm Mount We know the best telescope is the one you will use most often. That’s why Celestron’s engineers created NexStar SE’s unique, patented single fork arm mount. It’s perfectly portable and makes setup quick and easy. What’s more, the NexStar SE breaks down into several lightweight and compact pieces, making it easy to transport, even in small vehicles. You’ll have no problem getting the NexStar SE to your favorite observing site, or setting it up quickly in your backyard. Of course, it’s what’s inside the mount that really counts. Sturdy construction from high-quality components give NexStar SE the pointing and tracking accuracy needed to observe and follow your favorite targets with push-button ease. Use the included NexStar+ hand control to locate over 40,000 celestial objects, or take a Sky Tour and let your telescope show you the best objects currently visible. Aligning your telescope is simple and painless, too, thanks to SkyAlign. This process makes alignment as easy as 1-2-3: just center three bright objects in your eyepiece and press ALIGN. For even easier alignment, attach our StarSense AutoAlign and your NexStar SE aligns itself! Advanced Features Let the NexStar SE Grow with You The NexStar SE is compatible with all the high-tech accessories advanced users love. Provide GPS coordinates to your telescope with SkySync, or add automatic alignment functionality with StarSense AutoAlign. For planetary imaging, pair your NexStar 6SE with one of our Skyris cameras. Or, experiment with wide-field deep sky astroimaging by replacing the telescope’s secondary mirror with a DSLR or astronomical CCD camera with a Fastar/HyperStar lens assembly. From your first observing session and for years to come, the NexStar SE is your trusted companion.

Celestron’s iconic “orange tube” design is updated with all the latest features to provide the best stargazing experience for beginners and experienced observers alike. 6-inch aperture with excellent light-gathering ability provides impressive views of the Moon and planets, along with deep sky objects like the Orion Nebula, while retaining a compact form factor. Fully automated GoTo mount with database of 40,000+ celestial objects automatically locates and tracks objects for you. SkyAlign technology gets your telescope aligned and ready to observe in minutes. Even if you’re unfamiliar with the night sky, you can easily align your telescope on any three bright objects. Unique single fork arm design and sturdy steel tripod all break down into separate components for easy transport and quick assembly.

4. Celestron Nexstar 4SE Maksutov-Cassegrain GoTo Telescope

Reach amazing new heights with the Celestron NexStar 4SE Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope. Connect your device with NexStar SE technology that gives you built-in WiFi connectivity, StarSense technology, and SkyAlign technology to help you explore the universe in ways you never thought possible. The Celestron 4SE’s 4” primary mirror gves you excellent light gathering ability so you can take in all of the wonders of our solar system. The Celestron NexStar 4SE Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope has a patented single fork arm mount that is perfectly portable and easy to set up. Advanced Optics The Celestron NexStar 4SE Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope was designed with amazingly advanced optics so you never miss a thing while viewing. Featuring a 4” primary mirror, the 4SE has a focal length of 1325mm and focal ratio of f/13 for an incredibly long reach. With 53x magnification in the eyepiece, you can zoom into the depths of space. StarBright XTL optical coating collects and focuses light for incredible image observation. User Friendly Celestron engineers designed NeXStar SE computerized telescopes the best possible experience out under the stars. SkyAlign technology makes it easier than ever to immediately align three bright objects in your eyepiece. With SkySync, you can provide GPS coordinates to your viewing site to hone in on the closest objects in the sky. Easy Setup Setting up your NexStar 4SE is quick and painless thanks to the unique, single fork arm mount. The stainless steel tripod features easily adjustable legs to help you achieve a level, uniform height for your telescope. Manual clutches in both altitude and azimuth offer greater flexibility to manually point the telescope when powered off. Store all of your telescope accessories in the dedicated accessory tray. Superior Tracking If you're interested in taking your astronomical interests to the next level, the Celestron NexStar 4SE is an excellent and affordable way to get started. It utilizes the NexStar+ hand control to help you locate over 40000 celestial objects. A sturdy and durable construction gives the NexStar SE the pointing and tracking accuracy needed to observe and follow your favorite targets with ease.

Celestron’s iconic “orange tube” design is updated with all the latest features to provide the best stargazing experience for beginners and experienced observers alike. 4-inch aperture provides excellent light-gathering ability at an affordable price. You’ll get impressive views of the Moon and planets, along with deep sky objects like the Orion Nebula, while retaining a compact form factor. Fully automated GoTo mount with database of 40,000+ celestial objects automatically locates and tracks objects for you. SkyAlign technology gets your telescope aligned and ready to observe in minutes. Even if you’re unfamiliar with the night sky, you can easily align your telescope on any three bright objects. Unique single fork arm design and sturdy steel tripod all break down into separate components for easy transport and quick assembly.

5. CPC 800 XLT Computerized 8in Telescope

The CPC 800 GPS XLT is the most portable of Celestron's top-of-the-line fork-mounted astronomical telescopes and includes Celestron's premium StarBright XLT coatings. This telescope is at home as a superb visual instrument or with optional wedge and CCD cameras, as a serious astrophotographer's tool. Turn this scope to planets and see amazing detail on the surface of Jupiter; see Cassini's Division in the rings of Saturn, and resolve details on the surface of Mars. Even the distant Uranus, Neptune and Pluto are within your reach. Although large in aperture, with its conveniently located carrying handles and an instrument weight of only 42 lbs, this telescope is portable enough to setup in your backyard or take with you to your favorite dark sky location.

Celestron CPC 800 GPS (XLT) Computerized Telescope Application/Usage: Astronomy Application/Usage: Astronomy Mount Type: Altazimuth Mount Type: Altazimuth Focal Length: 2032 mm Focal Length: 2032 mm Country of Origin: United States Country of Origin: United States Tripod Mountable: Yes Highest Practical Power: 480x

6. Celestron PowerTank 17amp Power Supply

Take your telescope anywhere with this portable, rechargeable power supply. Enjoy extended observing and imaging sessions worry-free with 17 amp-hours of power in one convenient package. Use the included removable red flashlight while your eyes are dark-adapted to find accessories and reference star charts. When your session is over, the powerful LED spotlight illuminates your observing area so you can pack up quickly and safely, without leaving anything behind. The extra-large PowerTank 17 is more than just a telescope accessory; it's also an essential assistant on your next outing. You can use PowerTank to charge drained electronic devices with a cigarette lighter adapter. PowerTank also comes with a built-in siren and AM/FM radio for emergencies. Be prepared for stargazing and emergencies alike with PowerTank 17!

Celestron PowerTank 17amp Power Supply: 17 amp-hour power supply for your Celestron telescope 2 x 12V DC output car jack socket Built-in AM/FM Radio and Siren Built-in (2) USB ports for charging portable devices Removable red filtered flashlight with magnetic back Energy-efficient LED spotlight Handy jump-start system Built-in circuit breaker for safety Cigarette lighter adapter included Switchable 110V-220V AC adapter

7. Celestron - NexStar Evolution 9.25 Telescope

inThis robotic WiFi telescope is the coolest app-cessory in the galaxyin-Wired.com in5-star overall ratingin-BBC Sky at Night Magazine Celestrons signature telescopes reach a new level with NexStar Evolution 9.25, the first Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope with integrated WiFi. Leave your hand control behind and slew to all the best celestial objects with a tap of your smartphone or tablet. Connect your device to NexStar Evolutions built-in wireless network, and explore the universe with the Celestron mobile app for iOS and Android. Use the planetarium interface to view the night sky in real time or display a list of celestial objects currently visible based on your time and location. Our proprietary SkyAlign alignment procedure is built right into the Celestron mobile app, so youre ready to observe within minutes. The most user-friendly telescope everCelestron engineers designed NexStar Evolution based on years of customer feedback. It offers many thoughtful design features that combine to provide you the best possible experience out under the stars. Forget about batteries or an external power supply. For the first time ever on a consumer telescope, NexStar Evolution includes its own built-in battery. With this ultra-long life lithium-iron phosphate battery, youll be able to enjoy stargazing marathons up to 10 hours on a single charge. You can even use NexStar Evolutions USB charge port to top off the other devices in your life that need to stay powered on during an observing session. An intelligent power management system senses when battery levels are low and goes into power-saving mode to keep your telescope running for as long as possible. Setting up your NexStar Evolution is quick and painless with large, ergonomic handles. The same heavy-duty stainless steel tripod we use on our CPC series telescopes anchors your 9.25in telescope, providing serious stability. Manual clutches in both altitude and azimuth offer greater flexibility to manually point the telescope when powered off. Store up to 7 eyepieces in 2 accessory trays, one with an adjustable red LED illuminator. Superior tracking fit for astroimagingIf youre interested in astroimaging, the 9.25-inch NexStar Evolution is an excellent, affordable way to get started. Its the only fork-mounted telescope in its price range that offers brass worm gears, along with improved motors. NexStar Evolutions tracking accuracy is so impressive, you can capture images of deep-sky objects like the Orion Nebula by simply attaching your DSLR camera. As you progress in the hobby of astroimaging, you can add our Pro HD Wedge to achieve longer exposures for more detailed astrophotos. Of course, the Schmidt-Cassegrain optical system offers bright, sharp views with StarBright XLT optical coatingsa great choice for visual observers and budding astroimagers alike. NexStar Evolution is equipped with 4 auxiliary ports--2 on top of the fork and 2 on the bottom. A classic NexStar+ hand control is included, but is not necessary when using NexStar Evolution with the mobile app. The telescope also includes a StarPointer finderscope, two 1.25 Plossl eyepieces, a 1.25 star diagonal, and an AC adapter.

The NexStar Evolution is the first Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope with integrated WiFi. Leave your hand control behind and slew to all the best celestial objects with a tap of your smartphone or tablet. Connect your device to NexStar Evolution’s built-in wireless network, and explore the universe with the SkyPortal Powered by SkySafari™ mobile app for iOS and Android. Use the planetarium interface to view the night sky in real time or display a list of celestial objects currently visible based on your time and location. Our proprietary SkyAlign alignment procedure is built right into the SkyPortal mobile app, so you’re ready to observe within minutes. The most user-friendly telescope ever. Celestron engineers designed NexStar Evolution based on years of customer feedback. It offers many thoughtful design features that combine to provide you the best possible experience out under the stars. Forget about batteries or an external power supply. For the first time ever on a consumer telescope, NexStar Evolution includes its own built-in battery. With this ultra-long life lithium-iron phosphate battery, you’ll be able to enjoy stargazing marathons up to 10 hours on a single charge. You can even use NexStar Evolution’s USB charge port to top off the other devices in your life that need to stay powered on during an observing session. An intelligent power management system senses when battery levels are low and goes into power-saving mode to keep your telescope running for as long as possible. Setting up your NexStar Evolution is quick and painless with large, ergonomic handles. The same heavy-duty stainless steel tripod we use on our CPC series telescopes anchors your 9.25" telescope, providing serious stability. Manual clutches in both altitude and azimuth offer greater flexibility to manually point the telescope when powered off. Store up to 7 eyepieces in 2 accessory trays, one with an adjustable red LED illuminator. Superior tracking fit for astroimaging. If you’re interested in astroimaging, the 9.25-inch NexStar Evolution is an excellent, affordable way to get started. It’s the only fork-mounted telescope in its price range that offers brass worm gears, along with improved motors. NexStar Evolution’s tracking accuracy is so impressive, you can capture images of deep-sky objects like the Orion Nebula by simply attaching your DSLR camera. As you progress in the hobby of astroimaging, you can add our Pro HD Wedge to achieve longer exposures for more detailed astrophotos. Of course, the Schmidt-Cassegrain optical system offers bright, sharp views with StarBright XLT optical coatings—a great choice for visual observers and budding astroimagers alike. NexStar Evolution is equipped with 4 auxiliary ports--2 on top of the fork and 2 on the bottom. A classic NexStar+ hand control is included, but is not necessary when using NexStar Evolution with the mobile app. The telescope also includes a StarPointer finderscope, two 1.25” Plossl eyepieces, a 1.25” star diagonal, and an AC adapter.

8. Celestron - NEXSTAR EVOLUTION 6 TELESCOPE - Gray

Celestron NexStar Evolution 6 telescope - Schmidt-Cassegrain catadioptrics

The NexStar Evolution is the first Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope with integrated WiFi. Leave your hand control behind and slew to all the best celestial objects with a tap of your smartphone or tablet. Connect your device to NexStar Evolution’s built-in wireless network, and explore the universe with the SkyPortal Powered by SkySafari™ mobile app for iOS and Android. Use the planetarium interface to view the night sky in real time or display a list of celestial objects currently visible based on your time and location. Our proprietary SkyAlign alignment procedure is built right into the SkyPortal mobile app, so you’re ready to observe within minutes.The most user-friendly telescope ever. Celestron engineers designed NexStar Evolution based on years of customer feedback. It offers many thoughtful design features that combine to provide you the best possible experience out under the stars. Forget about batteries or an external power supply. For the first time ever on a consumer telescope, NexStar Evolution includes its own built-in battery. With this ultra-long life lithium-iron phosphate battery, you’ll be able to enjoy stargazing marathons up to 10 hours on a single charge. You can even use NexStar Evolution’s USB charge port to top off the other devices in your life that need to stay powered on during an observing session. An intelligent power management system senses when battery levels are low and goes into power-saving mode to keep your telescope running for as long as possible. Setting up your NexStar Evolution is quick and painless with large, ergonomic handles. The all-metal tripod features a metal accessory tray with indentations for storing and carrying the tripod. During setup, leg etchings help you achieve a level, uniform height for your telescope. Manual clutches in both altitude and azimuth offer greater flexibility to manually point the telescope when powered off. Store up to 7 eyepieces in 2 accessory trays, one with an adjustable red LED illuminator.Superior tracking fit for astroimaging if you’re interested in astroimaging, the 6-inch NexStar Evolution is an excellent, affordable way to get started. It’s the only fork-mounted telescope in its price range that offers brass worm gears, along with improved motors. NexStar Evolution’s tracking accuracy is so impressive, you can capture images of deep-sky objects like the Orion Nebula by simply attaching your DSLR camera. As you progress in the hobby of astroimaging, you can add our HD Pro Wedge to achieve longer exposures for more detailed astrophotos. NexStar Evolution compatible with the wedge when used with the CPC tripod (sold separately). Of course, the Schmidt-Cassegrain optical system offers bright, sharp views with StarBright XLT optical coatings—a great choice for visual observers and budding astroimagers alike. NexStar Evolution is equipped with 4 auxiliary ports--2 on top of the fork and 2 on the bottom. A classic NexStar+ hand control is included, but is not necessary when using NexStar Evolution with the mobile app. The telescope also includes a StarPointer finderscope, two 1.25” Plossl eyepieces, a 1.25” star diagonal, and an AC adapter.

9. Celestron - NexStar Evolution 8 Telescope

Celestron NexStar Evolution 8" SCT Telescope

The NexStar Evolution is the first Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope with integrated WiFi. Leave your hand control behind and slew to all the best celestial objects with a tap of your smartphone or tablet. Connect your device to NexStar Evolution’s built-in wireless network, and explore the universe with the SkyPortal Powered by SkySafari™ mobile app for iOS and Android. Use the planetarium interface to view the night sky in real time or display a list of celestial objects currently visible based on your time and location. Our proprietary SkyAlign alignment procedure is built right into the SkyPortal mobile app, so you’re ready to observe within minutes. The most user-friendly telescope ever. Celestron engineers designed NexStar Evolution based on years of customer feedback. It offers many thoughtful design features that combine to provide you the best possible experience out under the stars. Forget about batteries or an external power supply. For the first time ever on a consumer telescope, NexStar Evolution includes its own built-in battery. With this ultra-long life lithium-iron phosphate battery, you’ll be able to enjoy stargazing marathons up to 10 hours on a single charge. You can even use NexStar Evolution’s USB charge port to top off the other devices in your life that need to stay powered on during an observing session. An intelligent power management system senses when battery levels are low and goes into power-saving mode to keep your telescope running for as long as possible.Setting up your NexStar Evolution is quick and painless with large, ergonomic handles. The all-metal tripod features a metal accessory tray with indentations for storing and carrying the tripod. During setup, leg etchings help you achieve a level, uniform height for your telescope. Manual clutches in both altitude and azimuth offer greater flexibility to manually point the telescope when powered off. Store up to 7 eyepieces in 2 accessory trays, one with an adjustable red LED illuminator. Superior tracking fit for astroimaging If you’re interested in Astroimaging, the 8-inch NexStar Evolution is an excellent, affordable way to get started. It’s the only fork-mounted telescope in its price range that offers brass worm gears, along with improved motors. NexStar Evolution’s racking accuracy is so impressive, you can capture images of deep-sky objects like the Orion Nebula by simply attaching your DSLR camera. As you progress in the hobby of astroimaging, you can add our HD Pro Wedge to achieve longer exposures for more detailed astrophotos. NexStar Evolution compatible with the wedge when used with the CPC tripod (sold separately). Of course, the Schmidt-Cassegrain optical system offers bright, sharp views with StarBright XLT optical coatings—a great choice for visual observers and budding astroimagers alike. NexStar Evolution is equipped with 4 auxiliary ports--2 on top of the fork and 2 on the bottom. A classic NexStar+ hand control is included, but is not necessary when using NexStar Evolution with the mobile app. The telescope also includes a StarPointer finderscope, two 1.25” Plossl eyepieces, a 1.25” star diagonal, and an AC adapter.

10. Celestron - NexStar Evolution 8 HD Telescope

The NexStar Evolution keeps evolving. Celestron paired its best optics with the best technology to make an incredibly versatile and portable telescope system. Now, enjoy EdgeHD 8" optics and StarSense AutoAlign on the renowned Evolution mount, all controlled from your favorite tablet or phone. When NexStar Evolution was introduced, it paired two of Celestron's most acclaimed innovations, Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes, and computerized go-to optics, in a compact single fork arm mount. The technology and optics continued to evolve over the years. On the technology side, Celestron added StarSense AutoAlign for the go-to telescopes, as well as WiFi telescope control over the new SkyPortal app. With optics, EdgeHD flat-field and coma-free astro-imaging systems were made to accommodate modern imaging with cameras of all types, especially larger format CCD and DSLR cameras. Now all of these innovations have come together in one telescope package. The NexStar Evolution 8-inch EdgeHD. The NexStar Evolution 8-inch EdgeHD covers all bases for compact and easy to use and is perfectly capable for any observing to astro-imaging pursuit. Superior Fit If you're interested in astroimaging, the 8-inch NexStar Evolution EdgeHD is an excellent way to jump in. It's the only fork-mounted telescope in its price range that offers brass worm gears, along with improved motors. Tracking is great, and so too is the flat-field, coma-free EdgeHD optical system. You can capture images of deep-sky objects like the Orion Nebula by simply attaching your DSLR camera. As you progress in the hobby of astroimaging, you can add Celestron Wedge for NexStar Evolution to achieve longer exposures for more detailed astrophotos. Of course, the EdgeHD optical system offers bright, sharp views with StarBright XLT optical coatings a great choice for visual observers and budding astroimagers alike. NexStar Evolution is equipped with 4 auxiliary ports - 2 on top of the fork and 2 on the bottom. StarSense hand control is still included but is not necessary when using NexStar Evolution with the app. Technologies Celestron added the StarSense AutoAlign technology to the SkyPortal app, making SkyPortal the most advanced telescope control app offered. StarSense not only automatically aligns itself from your smart device, but it also has advanced mount modeling, allowing you to enter up to 10 alignment points for the most precision pointing accuracy possible. Even the most advanced telescope users will love using StarSense AutoAlign through the app. This affordable accessory replaces the expensive software usually used for advanced mount modeling. With built-in mount modeling, you'll get superior pointing accuracy from horizon to horizon. When your alignment needs to be perfect, add up to 10 additional calibration stars to achieve a new level of accuracy, great for locating objects in the camera's field of view for astroimaging. SkyPortal App Access the sky and control your telescope from an interactive planetarium on your smart device with a free SkyPortal app – provides the best star gazing experience for you and your friends and family – know when Jupiter's Great Red Spot will be visible, including shadow transits, planetary occultations, conjunctions, or pick the best deep sky objects to view such as galaxies and nebulae. Learn about these objects with informative backstories and beautiful image galleries, then see them for yourself through the telescope! Controls everything, including StarSense. Tap connect and align and let StarSense automatically align the telescope for you. Upgradable to SkySafari Plus and SkySafari Pro.

Perfect for Visual Use or Beginning Astroimaging. This telescope is an excellent instrument for those looking to explore astroimaging. It’s the only fork-mounted telescope in its price range that offers brass worm gears along with improved motors, which provide great tracking accuracy. Capture images of the Moon and planets by attaching any planetary imaging camera. You can even experiment with imaging brighter deep-sky objects like the Orion Nebula with your DSLR camera. As you progress in the hobby of astroimaging, turn your alt-azimuth mount into equatorial setup by adding the Wedge for NexStar Evolution. This accessory will enable you to achieve longer exposures for more detailed astrophotos. The NexStar Evolution mount also features a built-in lithium-iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery with enough power for 10-hour astroimaging sessions. Of course, the EdgeHD optical system offers bright, sharp views with StarBright XLT™ optical coatings—a great choice for visual observers and budding astro-imagers alike. NexStar Evolution is equipped with 4 auxiliary ports—two on top of the fork and two on the bottom. A StarSense hand control is still included, but is not necessary when using NexStar Evolution with the app. Accessories Included: The NexStar Evolution 8” telescope includes two 1.25” Plössl 40mm & 13mm eyepiece, which is great for observing most any celestial object right out of the box. What’s more, your telescope includes a 1.25" star diagonal, 1.25” Visual Back, the StarSense AutoAlign accessory, and a StarPointer Pro™ finderscope. The StarSense AutoAlign comes with a hand control, but thanks to the internal WiFi and SkyPortal app, use of the hand control is completely optional. To increase your field of view without sacrificing performance, add the optional EdgeHD reducer lens, bringing your focal ratio down to f/7. Software that Comes FREE with your Purchase. Celestron PWI Telescope Control: Your Ultimate Astronomy Software. All current Celestron computerized telescopes include Celestron PWI (CPWI), the most advanced astronomy software provided with any consumer-grade telescope. Celestron’s experts co-developed CPWI with the engineers at PlaneWave Instruments. The result is an all-in-one solution offering you many of the same features used on PlaneWave’s observatory-class telescopes.Graphical planetarium interface with PointXP advanced mount modelling allows you to add 100+ points to your alignment model for the most accurate pointing and tracking possible. Ideal for remote observatory setups: save and re-load your alignment and park your scope. Provides a complete ASCOM telescope interface to allow control of the telescope from third party software applications. For more information on CPWI and to see the user interface, click here.