A trusted name for astronomers at every level. When you think of stargazing, a celestron telescope probably comes to mind. It’s that reliable friend for your cosmic adventures, whether your just starting out or have been mapping the sky for years. Their reputation for quality and innovation is, well, stellar.
But with so many models, how do you choose the right one for you? This review cuts through the noise. We’ll look at what makes these scopes special, from backyard viewing to deep-sky wonders, so you can find your perfect window to the universe.
Product Comparison Table: 9 Best Celestron Telescope
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Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope – 8-Inch Schmidt-Cassegrain Optical…
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9.7 |
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Celestron StarSense Explorer LT 114AZ App-Enabled Telescope – 114mm…
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9.4 |
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Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ App-Enabled Telescope – 130mm…
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9.2 |
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Celestron NexStar 6SE Computerized Telescope – 6-Inch Schmidt-Cassegrain Optical…
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8.9 |
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Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 5-inch App-Enabled Telescope – 130mm…
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8.6 |
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Celestron Travel Scope 80 Portable Refractor Telescope – 80mm…
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8.4 |
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Celestron StarSense Explorer LT 80AZ App-Enabled Telescope – 80mm…
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8.1 |
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Celestron – AstroMaster 70AZ Telescope – Refractor Telescope –…
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7.9 |
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Celestron Travel Scope 70 Portable Refractor Telescope – 70mm…
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7.6 |
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Quick Review For Top 9 Celestron Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope – 8-Inch Schmidt-Cassegrain Optical Tube – Fully Automated GoTo Mount with SkyAlign – Ideal for Beginners and Advanced Users – 40,000+ Object Database
The Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope is a significant step for anyone wanting to move beyond simple stargazing to serious observing. It combines a powerful optical system with user-friendly automation, making it a versatile choice for both dedicated beginners and experienced astronomers.
At its heart is the 8-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain optical tube.
This design is known for its compact size, which makes the telescope relatively portable, while the large aperture is the key feature. An 8-inch mirror gathers a substantial amount of light, allowing you to see much more detail than with smaller scopes. You’ll be able to clearly observe the rings of Saturn, the major cloud bands on Jupiter, and intricate features on the lunar surface.
For deep-sky viewing, this aperture brings galaxies, nebulas, and star clusters into clearer view from dark sky locations.
The real game-changer, though, is the fully automated GoTo mount. It features the NexStar+ hand control, which contains a database of over 40,000 celestial objects. Instead of manually searching the sky with star charts, you simply select an object from the menu.
Celestron StarSense Explorer LT 114AZ App-Enabled Telescope – 114mm Newtonian Reflector with Smartphone Dock & StarSense App – iPhone & Android Compatible – Easy-to-Use for Beginners
The Celestron StarSense Explorer LT 114AZ App-Enabled Telescope is designed to remove the biggest hurdle for new astronomers: finding things in the night sky. This isn’t just a telescope; it’s a guided tour of the universe that uses the smartphone you already own.
Here’s how it works. You mount your phone into the dedicated dock on the telescope tube. Then, you launch the StarSense Explorer app. The app’s patented technology takes a picture of the sky above you.
It analyzes the star patterns to figure out exactly where the telescope is pointed, all without needing GPS or complicated alignment. Once it knows your position, the real magic begins. On your phone’s screen, you’ll see a map of the sky with a series of arrows. Simply move the telescope by hand, following the arrows, until you center the on-screen bullseye. When the bullseye turns green, look through the eyepiece. The object you wanted to see is right there, centered in your view.
No frustration, no star-hopping charts required.
The app doesn’t just point; it also teaches and recommends. It generates a personalized list of “Tonight’s Best” objects visible from your location, from the Moon and Saturn to brighter galaxies and nebulae. It provides background information on each target, so you learn as you observe. The telescope itself is a capable 114mm (4.5-inch) Newtonian reflector. The optics have high-reflectivity coatings for bright, sharp images.
Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ App-Enabled Telescope – 130mm Newtonian Reflector with Smartphone Dock & StarSense App – iPhone & Android Compatible – Easy-to-Use for Beginners
The Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ App-Enabled Telescope is designed to make finding celestial objects as simple as using a GPS. It’s a powerful tool that removes the biggest hurdle for beginners: knowing where to look in the vast night sky.
At the heart of this system is the patented StarSense technology. You simply dock your smartphone into the bracket on the telescope’s tube.
When you launch the companion app, it uses your phone’s camera and advanced software to analyze the star patterns above. Unlike a basic star chart, it actually calculates the telescope’s exact position and orientation. It then provides real-time, on-screen arrows for you to follow, guiding your hands to move the telescope until the target is centered. When a bullseye turns green in the app, you know the object is in the eyepiece.
This means you spend less time searching and more time actually viewing.
The optical heart of the instrument is a 130mm (5-inch) Newtonian reflector. This aperture gathers a significant amount of light, allowing for impressively detailed views. You’ll see the craters and mountains of the Moon in sharp relief, the cloud bands of Jupiter and its moons, the rings of Saturn, and brighter deep-sky objects like the Orion Nebula.
Celestron NexStar 6SE Computerized Telescope – 6-Inch Schmidt-Cassegrain Optical Tube – Fully Automated GoTo Mount with SkyAlign – Ideal for Beginners and Advanced Users – 40,000+ Object Database
The Celestron NexStar 6SE Computerized Telescope is a significant step for anyone wanting to move beyond simple stargazing. It combines a powerful optical system with user-friendly automation, making it a versatile choice for both new and experienced observers.
Its heart is the 6-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain optical tube. This design offers a large aperture for gathering light in a surprisingly compact body.
That means you get detailed views of our Moon’s craters, the rings of Saturn, and even distant galaxies, all from a telescope thats relatively easy to transport and setup. The iconic orange tube is a mark of Celestron’s quality optics that have been trusted for decades.
Where the 6SE truly shines is in its computerized GoTo mount. The system is centered around the NexStar+ hand control, which contains a database of over 40,000 celestial objects.
Instead of manually searching the sky, you simply select a target. The mount then automatically moves the telescope to find it and keeps it centered in the eyepiece as it moves across the night sky. This feature alone opens up the universe, letting you spend more time observing and less time struggling to find things.
Getting started is straightforward thanks to SkyAlign technology. To align the telescope, you just need to point it at any three bright objects—stars or even planets.
Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 5-inch App-Enabled Telescope – 130mm Schmidt-Cassegrain with Smartphone Dock & StarSense App – iPhone & Android Compatible – Easy-to-Use for Beginners
The Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 5-inch App-Enabled Telescope is designed to make finding celestial objects as simple as using a GPS. It removes the biggest hurdle for beginners—knowing where to look in the vast night sky—by putting a powerful guide right in your pocket.
At the heart of this system is the patented StarSense technology. Unlike a basic star chart app, it uses your smartphone’s camera and advanced software to actually analyze the star patterns above you.
It calculates the telescope’s exact position and orientation, turning your phone into a precision navigation tool. You simply dock your phone into the dedicated holder on the optical tube, launch the StarSense Explorer app, and your are ready to go. The app then generates a personalized list of the best objects currently visible from your location, from the Moon and planets to brighter galaxies and nebulae.
Using it is an intuitive, step-by-step process.
After selecting a target from the list, you just follow the on-screen arrows on your phone screen. These guide you as you gently move the telescope on its manual altazimuth mount. The mount features smooth, dual-axis controls for fine adjustments. When the target is centered in your telescope’s field of view, the on-screen bullseye turns green. Then, you look through the 25mm eyepiece to see the object with your own eyes.
Celestron Travel Scope 80 Portable Refractor Telescope – 80mm Aperture, Fully-Coated Glass Optics – Includes Tripod, Smartphone Adapter, Backpack & Software – Ideal for Beginners & Travel
The Celestron Travel Scope 80 Portable Refractor Telescope is designed for anyone curious about the night sky or distant landscapes. Its core purpose is to make astronomy accessible and portable, stripping away the complexity that often comes with telescopes.
At its heart is an 80mm aperture objective lens. This larger opening gathers significantly more light than smaller beginner models, which is crucial for clear views.
The fully-coated glass optics enhance this further, ensuring bright, sharp images of the Moon, planets, and even daytime scenery. You’ll be able to see lunar craters in detail and spot Jupiter’s moons.
Setup is intentionally simple. Theres no tools required; the full-height tripod and telescope assemble quickly. This means you can go from your backpack to observing in just a few minutes, a key feature for impromptu stargazing or travel.
The entire kit, including accessories, fits neatly into the included padded backpack, making it truly ready for adventure.
For viewing, you get two eyepieces: a 20mm for wider views of starfields and landscapes, and a 10mm for higher magnification to zoom in on planetary details. This versatility lets you switch between sweeping vistas and close-up observation easily.
Celestron StarSense Explorer LT 80AZ App-Enabled Telescope – 80mm Refractor with Smartphone Dock & StarSense App – iPhone & Android Compatible – Easy-to-Use for Beginners
The Celestron StarSense Explorer LT 80AZ App-Enabled Telescope is designed to make astronomy simple and accessible for anyone, especially if your’re just starting out. It takes the frustration out of finding things in the night sky by using a tool you already have: your smartphone. The core of this telescope is the patented StarSense technology, which is different from a basic star chart app.
It actually uses your phone’s camera to analyze the star patterns above you, calculating the telescopes exact position. This turns your phone into a precise celestial navigation system.
Heres how it works in practice. You simply attach your phone to the dedicated dock on the telescope tube, launch the StarSense Explorer app (compatible with both iPhone and Android), and let it calibrate. No prior knowledge is needed.
The app will then generate a personalized list of “Tonight’s Best Targets” for your specific location and time. You’ll see planets, bright nebulae, star clusters, and galaxies that are actually visible. The list changes dynamically, so theres always something new to find, whether your observing from a suburban backyard or a darker site.
To find an object, you just follow the on-screen arrows that guide you where to move the telescope.
Celestron – AstroMaster 70AZ Telescope – Refractor Telescope – Fully-Coated Glass Optics – Adjustable-Height Tripod – Bonus Astronomy Software Package
The Celestron AstroMaster 70AZ Telescope is a refractor telescope designed to make your first steps into astronomy straightforward and rewarding. It balances capable optics with user-friendly operation, aiming to remove the frustration that sometimes comes with a new hobby. You get a solid instrument that’s ready for both night and day viewing adventures. Its core is the 70mm fully-coated glass objective lens.
This aperture gathers enough light to provide bright, clear views of celestial favorites. You can expect to see the craters and mountains of the Moon in sharp detail, observe the rings of Saturn, the bands of Jupiter, and it’s bright moons, and find brighter star clusters. The fully-coated optics enhance image clarity and contrast. Because it’s a refractor, it’s also perfect for terrestrial use; think birdwatching, scenic overlooks, or checking out distant landmarks with an upright image.
Setup is intentionally simple. You can assemble the telescope without any tools, often in just a few minutes. The adjustable-height aluminum tripod provides a stable base and can be tailored for viewers of different heights, whether your standing or seated. Navigating the sky is intuitive thanks to the manual Alt-Azimuth mount. It moves smoothly up/down and left/right, with a handy panhandle control for precise pointing.
Celestron Travel Scope 70 Portable Refractor Telescope – 70mm Aperture, Fully-Coated Glass Optics – Includes Tripod, Backpack & Software – Ideal for Beginners & Travel
The Celestron Travel Scope 70 Portable Refractor Telescope is designed for anyone who wants a simple, capable, and truly portable optical instrument. It bridges the gap between a toy and a complex piece of equipment, making it a practical choice for casual stargazing, travel, and family adventures.
Its core advantage is the 70mm aperture objective lens.
This fully-coated glass optic gathers significantly more light than smaller, cheaper models, which is crucial for image brightness and clarity. You’ll get noticeably sharper views of the Moon’s craters, the rings of Saturn, and Jupiter’s major moons. The fully-coated lenses also reduce internal glare, improving contrast so objects stand out better against the night sky.
During the day, it doubles as a powerful spotting scope for landscapes or wildlife, offering a versatility that many telescopes lack.
Ease of use is central to its design. The telescope requires no tools for assembly; you simply attach the optical tube to the included full-height tripod, insert an eyepiece, and you’re basically ready to go. This straightforward process means you spend less time fiddling with parts and more time observing.
Celestron Telescope Buying Guide
Choosing a Celestron model involves balancing their renowned optics with features. It’s not just about power; it’s about what fits your stargazing lifestyle and experience level. This guide will help you navigate the key choices.
Aperture: Your Light Collector
This is the telescope’s most important spec. Aperture, the diameter of the main lens or mirror, dictates how much light you can gather. More light means brighter, clearer views of faint galaxies and nebulae. But remember, a bigger aperture often means a bigger, heavier tube. Ask yourself: will you be carrying it to a dark site, or is it staying in your backyard?
Mount Type: Stability is Everything
The best optics are useless on a wobbly mount. Celestron offers two main types. Altazimuth mounts move up-down and left-right; they’re intuitive and great for beginners. Equatorial mounts are designed to follow the stars’ arc across the sky, which is essential for serious astrophotography. Consider how much patience you have for setup and alignment.
GoTo vs. Manual Finding
Do you enjoy the thrill of the hunt, star-hopping from one object to the next? A manual telescope offers that classic experience. If you’d rather spend more time viewing than searching, a GoTo computerized mount is a game-changer. Just align it, select an object from its vast database, and the telescope slews to it automatically. It’s perfect for avoiding light-polluted skies where stars are hard to navigate by.
Consider Your Primary Targets
Your goals shape your choice. For stunning, wide-field views of the Milky Way and large nebulae, a short-tube refractor is fantastic. To see the rings of Saturn and craters on the Moon in crisp detail, a Maksutov-Cassegrain with its long focal length excels. For deep-sky objects, a Newtonian reflector gives you a lot of aperture for your budget. Think about what will keep you looking up.
Frequently Asked Questions About Celestron Telescope
What should I look for in my first Celestron telescope?
For beginners, aperture is key. It’s the diameter of the main lens or mirror. A larger aperture gathers more light, so you see brighter and clearer images. A good starter scope often has a 70mm to 114mm aperture. Also, consider a model with a stable mount. It makes viewing much easier.
What’s the difference between a reflector and a refractor?
Refractor telescopes use lenses. They offer sharp views and are low-maintenance, great for the moon and planets. Reflectors use mirrors. They give you more aperture for your money, which is excellent for faint objects like galaxies. Your choice depends on what you most want to see.
Do I need a computerised “GoTo” mount?
Not necessarily. A GoTo mount can automatically find celestial objects for you, which is fantastic for beginners who feel lost in the sky. But manual mounts are simpler, often cheaper, and help you learn the constellations. It’s a matter of personal preference and budget.
Can I use a Celestron telescope for daytime viewing?
Yes, but you must be very careful. You need a special solar filter that goes over the front of the telescope. Never look at the sun through a telescope without the proper filter. It can cause instant and permanent eye damage.
Why are some accessories important?
Different eyepieces change the magnification. A good starter set usually includes a couple. A Barlow lens can double your eyepiece powers. Also, a moon filter is really helpful. It cuts the moon’s bright glare so you can see more surface detail comfortable.
Is it hard to set up and maintain?
Most entry-level Celestron scopes are designed for easy setup. You’ll learn quickly. For maintenance, keep the optics covered when not in use. Reflectors might need their mirrors aligned (collimated) occasionally, but it’s a simple process with practice.
Where is the best place to use my telescope?
Start in your backyard! The key is to get away from bright street lights if you can. For the best views of faint nebulas, a trip to a dark sky site is amazing. Let your eyes adjust to the dark for about 20 minutes for the best experience.
One Last Look
This model stands as a solid all-around performer. It gives you a fantastic start without being overly complicated. You can see the moon’s craters in sharp detail and get great views of planets like Saturn and Jupiter. It’s a telescope that grows with you as your interest deepens, offering plenty of room to learn and see more.
If you want a reliable first telescope or a dependable tool for casual observing, this is a compelling choice. It balances quality optics with user-friendly features very well. For anyone ready to begin their stargazing journey, this Celestron telescope provides excellent value and a clear window to the night sky. It’s a purchase you’ll be happy with for many years to come.