In the history of amateur astronomy, there have been few telescopes that could compete with the popularity of the Celestron NexStar SE! The NexStar Series, which includes four models, the 4SE, 5SE, 6SE and the flagship NexStar 8SE, with its large 8" Faster-compatible optics, was introduced in 2007, but that was just the beginning. Over the next 14 years, Celestron continued to refine the electronics as computerization technology grew by leaps and bounds. Today, the Celestron NexStar SE series of telescopes includes, among other advancements, Celestron’s CPWI control software as well as the ability to add GPS and WiFi to the system with stand-alone modules. Let's take a closer look at some of the technology that lives in the Celestron NexStar SE:
SkyAlign: Celestron's patented SkyAlign alignment technology makes setting up a computerized telescope simple, fast, and accurate. Just point the NexStar SE telescope at any three bright objects—stars, bright planets, or even the Moon—and the SE will orient itself with the night sky. In no time at all, your telescope will be ready to show you the Universe!
Patented Single Fork Arm: Schmidt-Cassegrain and Maksutov Cassegrain telescopes on alt-azimuth mounts have traditionally been mounted between two fork arms, and this method works well, but it is more bulky, heavier, and less modular than the single fork arm design of Celestron's NexStar SE line. A single fork arm allows you to easily remove the telescope from the fork for storage. This makes the NexStar SE very portable and capable of fitting in the smallest vehicles for treks out to dark-sky sites and star parties.
NexStar + Hand Controller: The included NexStar + hand control for the NexStar SE telescope series is your gateway to an amazing array of features! It is loaded with a 40,000 object database and can take you on a guided tour (Sky Tour) of the best objects in the sky at the time you are observing!
The NexStar + controller is flash upgradeable and can be connected directly to your PC with a user-supplied Mini USB cable. It is arguably the most user-friendly hand controller in the industry!
WiFi & GPS Compatible: Control the NexStar SE from your smartphone or tablet with the optional SkyPortal WiFi Module. This little device plugs into the AUX port on the NexStar SE and provides a wireless connection. SkyPortal works in conjunction with the free SkyPortal app, turning your smart device into your own personal planetarium!
If you would like to add the extra alignment help GPS (global positioning satellites) can provide, simply plug in the Celestron SkySync Module. This 16-channel GPS accessory will automatically update your telescope's location and the time to further increase alignment with the built-in SkyAlign technology.
All of Celestron's NexStar SE telescopes ship free to locations in the continental US! If you want to save even more and pick up some highly popular telescope accessories for the NexStar SE at the same time, check out High Point's NexStar SE Bundles, which also come with free shipping.
If you need help choosing the NexStar SE that is best suited for your applications and budget, feel free to contact one of our non-commissioned product advisors by phone or email. We are here to help and want your experience in astronomy to be the best it can be!
