Celestron 114LCM

Product Description

The Celestron 114LCM telescope is a computerized Newtonian reflector telescope designed for beginner astronomers and families. Celestron 114LCM features a 114mm (4.5 inch) optical tube with a 1000mm focal length, providing a focal ratio of f/8.8. Celestron 114LCM’s computerized system automatically locates and tracks thousands of celestial objects using the SkyAlign alignment procedure. Celestron 114LCM packs enough light-gathering ability to deliver extraordinary views of planets, stars, and deep space objects. Celestron 114LCM’s reliable and versatile design, combined with its affordable price, makes it an excellent introduction to serious astronomy without breaking the bank.

Should you buy Celestron 114LCM as your first telescope?

The Celestron 114LCM is not recommended as a first telescope for most beginners. Its bird-jones design and narrow field of view create a frustrating experience for novice astronomers. The telescope requires difficult collimation, which challenges beginners and affects image quality. Superior alternatives exist for beginner telescopes, including refractors and binoculars. Refractor telescopes offer better image quality and easier maintenance. Binoculars provide a more affordable and portable option for astronomy. The Celestron 114LCM’s computerized mount helps locate celestial objects but adds complexity for users unfamiliar with such technology. The telescope offers reasonable optics with a 114mm aperture and 1000mm focal length. Its price range of $200-$300 is reasonable for a beginner telescope. New astronomers should explore options with better performance, ease of use, and value for money.

Is Celestron 114LCM Go-To Telescope easy to use?

The Celestron 114LCM Go-To Telescope is easy to use, with some caveats for beginners. The computerized telescope locates celestial objects automatically using its on-board computer and motorized system. SkyAlign alignment procedure takes only a few minutes to complete. Assembly is relatively straightforward, with most users setting up the telescope in under an hour. The adjustable tripod provides a stable base for observing. Touch-button controls make navigating menus and functions simple. Instructions can be confusing at times, especially for beginners. Finderscope alignment and polar alignment processes are tricky for new users. The telescope’s automated features and ease of use make it suitable for both beginners and experienced astronomers, despite some initial challenges.

Should you buy Celestron 114 LCM Computerized Reflector Telescope for kids?

The Celestron 114 LCM Computerized Reflector Telescope is not recommended for kids interested in astronomy. The telescope’s optics fall below acceptable standards with a low resolution limit of 1.22 arcseconds. Its 114mm aperture provides limited light-gathering ability, insufficient for observing faint objects. The low-quality altazimuth mount is prone to vibrations and instability, making it difficult to obtain sharp images. The computerized system with a database of 4,000 celestial objects does not compensate for the telescope’s poor performance. Better options exist for children serious about astronomy, offering superior optics and more stable mounts. The Celestron 114 LCM is considered a telescope rip-off, promising more than it delivers and potentially frustrating young astronomers.

What can you see with Celestron NexStar 114LCM?

The sights you can see with Celestron NexStar 114LCM are listed below.

• Jupiter
• Jupiter’s four largest moons
• Saturn
• Orion Nebula (M42)
• Pleiades star cluster (M45)
• Andromeda Galaxy (M31)
• Hercules Cluster (M13)
• The Moon
• Jupiter’s North Equatorial Belt
• Jupiter’s South Equatorial Belt
• Jupiter’s Great Red Spot

Should you buy Celestron 114 LCM Single Fork Arm Telescope to observe planets?

The Celestron 114 LCM Single Fork Arm Telescope is not recommended for serious planetary observation. Celestron manufactures excellent telescopes, but this model has significant drawbacks. The low-quality mount causes a frustrating experience when tracking celestial objects. Optics fall below acceptable standards for detailed planetary viewing. The narrow field of view makes observing larger planets difficult. Collimation is challenging, frustrating users. The 114mm aperture results in small views of planets. The 1000mm focal length makes observing planetary details challenging. Jupiter’s larger moons appear as small dots, while its bands look faint and poorly defined. Better options exist on the market for planetary observation. Beginners might find this telescope suitable as an affordable, easy-to-setup starting point. Users can see moons and bands on Jupiter, albeit with limitations. The telescope offers moderate portability and is suitable for observing smaller planets like Mars.

Should you buy Celestron 114LCM Newtonian Reflector Telescope to observe galaxies?

Celestron 114LCM is not recommended for galaxy observation. Larger apertures are preferred for better light gathering and resolution. Celestron 114LCM offers potential for galaxy viewing with practice. Newbie astronomers should consider this affordable telescope. Manual tracking challenges beginners but teaches basics. Additional high-magnification eyepieces are recommended for detailed views. Buyers should weigh these factors before purchasing.

Should you buy Celestron NexStar 114LCM for astrophotography?

Celestron NexStar 114LCM is not recommended for serious astrophotography. Telescope is considered beginner-level with insufficient features and quality. Mount and tracking system are potentially unstable for long-exposure photography. We advise choosing telescopes with larger apertures, better optics, and advanced features. Newbie hobbyists can use it as a starting point.

Is Celestron NexStar 114 LCM Reflector Telescope portable?

The Celestron NexStar 114 LCM Reflector Telescope is moderately portable. The telescope weighs 27.5 pounds and features a compact single fork arm mount, making it suitable for camping trips and star parties. Users can power the telescope with 8 AA batteries or an optional AC adapter, enhancing its portability. The telescope’s design allows for relatively easy setup and teardown at different locations. A Powertank portable power supply is available for extended use in remote areas without AC power access.