Celestron NexStar Evolution 8

Product Description

The Celestron NexStar Evolution 8 telescope is a Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope with an innovative and compact design. NexStar Evolution 8 features WiFi-enabled control, allowing users to operate the telescope via a smartphone app without wired connections. Celestron’s signature EdgeHD series includes a corrector plate with specialized lenses inside the telescope, providing crisp and bright images of celestial objects. NexStar Evolution 8 is equipped with a Starsense AutoAlign feature for robotic control and slewing to celestial objects, as well as a rechargeable internal battery that powers the telescope for hours of stargazing. The telescope has an aperture of 203 mm and a focal length of 2032 mm, making it ideal for observing planets and galaxies.

Built-in WiFi enables control via the Celestron SkyPortal app on smartphones or tablets. Users leave the traditional hand control behind and slew celestial objects using mobile devices. The telescope functions as a self-powered instrument with a rechargeable internal battery. The battery powers stargazing sessions for hours without external power sources.

The NexStar Evolution 8 operates as a robotic telescope controlled remotely by app. StarSense AutoAlign technology facilitates quick and easy telescope alignment. The compact design and mechanically solid construction enhance portability. Astronomers transport the 21 kg (46 lbs) telescope to remote observing sites with ease.

The Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope suits both visual observing and astrophotography. The 1.25-inch eyepiece and 10mm focal length provide 40x magnification. Users observe various celestial objects from the Moon to distant galaxies. The computerized altazimuth mount and DC servo motors enable precise slewing to celestial targets.

Should you buy Celestron NexStar Evolution 8 as your first telescope?

The Celestron NexStar Evolution 8 is a suitable first telescope for serious beginners and intermediate astronomers. It offers excellent visual astronomy capabilities with its 203mm aperture and high-quality optical system. The telescope excels at astroimaging and provides easy control through computerized mount and WiFi connectivity. Beginners should consider their experience level and budget before investing in this luxury item. The NexStar Evolution 8 requires additional eyepieces for optimal performance. It balances quality and affordability but is not the most budget-friendly option. The telescope may need repairs over time and is not the sturdiest option available. Practical buyers find the 8-inch aperture ideal for observing deep-sky objects. The Schmidt-Cassegrain design offers excellent optical quality in a compact form factor. Celestron provides reputable customer support and warranty for this telescope.

Is Celestron NexStar Evolution Series 8 easy to use?

Celestron NexStar Evolution Series 8 is certainly easy to use. Surprisingly user-friendly interface and intuitive design enable quick navigation for beginners. Minimal setup and computerized altazimuth mount facilitate effortless celestial object tracking. NexStar+ hand control simplifies object location. Accessible features allow users to focus on enjoying the viewing experience.

Should you buy Celestron NexStar Evolution Series 8 for kids?

The Celestron NexStar Evolution Series 8 is an excellent choice for kids interested in astronomy. This large and powerful telescope features an 8-inch aperture, providing clear views of deep-sky objects like nebulae, galaxies, and star clusters. Smart features such as Wi-Fi connectivity and a built-in battery enhance the astronomy experience for young users. Kids can easily connect to the telescope using smartphones or tablets, making it user-friendly for the digital generation. The telescope’s computerized system and GoTo controls simplify navigation of the night sky. Quick setup and lightweight design allow for easy transportation and immediate observation. The ability to attach a camera for astrophotography adds to its educational value. The Celestron NexStar Evolution Series 8 appears on lists of best telescopes for beginners, combining advanced technology with user-friendly design.

What can you see with Celestron Evolution 8?

The sights you can see with Celestron Evolution 8 are listed below.

• Mercury
• Venus
• Lunar surface features (ridges, faults, valleys, mountains, flatlands, craters)
• Jupiter’s cloud bands
• Jupiter’s Great Red Spot
• Jupiter’s four largest moons (Galilean moons)
• Saturn’s ring system
• Saturn’s moons
• Orion Nebula (M42)
• Trapezium Cluster
• Sombrero Galaxy (M104)
• Andromeda Galaxy (M31)
• Milky Way’s central bulge
• Milky Way’s disk
• Milky Way’s halo
• Faint stars with magnitudes as low as 14
• Quadrilateral stars at the core of nebulae

Should you buy Celestron 8-inch Evolution Telescope to observe planets?

The Celestron 8-inch Evolution Telescope is an excellent choice for observing planets. Its 8-inch aperture provides clear, detailed views of solar system planets like Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars. The optical system ranks among the best in its class for planetary observing, producing high-contrast images with good resolution. Observers can see planetary surface features and atmospheric details. The computerized GoTo mount facilitates easy planet location and tracking. Visual planetary observing benefits greatly from this telescope’s capabilities. Photographers should note that DSLR cameras are not ideal for planetary imaging with this telescope. A dedicated astrocam or specialized planetary camera is recommended for serious astrophotography. The telescope’s mount suits visual use well but may require upgrades for advanced photography. Additional high-quality eyepieces can further enhance the planetary observation experience.

Should you buy NexStar Evolution 8 to observe galaxies?

The NexStar Evolution 8 is a capable instrument for observing galaxies. Its 8-inch aperture provides sufficient light-gathering power to reveal dust lanes and spiral arms in bright galaxies like Andromeda (M31) and Whirlpool (M51). The telescope’s computerized altazimuth mount and DC servo motors enable accurate tracking for capturing galaxy images. Built-in battery and WiFi connectivity allow convenient operation and control through the SkyPortal app. Dark skies enhance galaxy observation quality. The telescope represents a significant financial investment but offers a balance of aperture, tracking accuracy, and features for deep-sky astronomy. Dedicated observers will achieve impressive views of galaxies and other deep-sky objects with proper alignment, high-quality eyepieces, and optimal observing conditions.

Should you buy Evolution 8 Telescope for astrophotography?

The Evolution 8 Telescope is a suitable option for casual astrophotography and serves as an affordable starter platform for aspiring astrophotographers. Integrated WiFi and a 10-hour internal battery enhance its capabilities and convenience for mobile imaging. The altitude-azimuth mount limits long-exposure tracking, requiring frequent adjustments. Optimal performance demands a dedicated astrocam or small pixel camera for planetary photography. HyperStar technology enables faster image capture by reducing focal length and increasing field of view. The 203mm aperture and f/10 focal ratio allow quick capture of detailed images. New eyepieces improve both visual observing and astrophotography compared to the included 10mm eyepiece. The Evolution 8 balances performance and affordability, excelling in casual astroimaging and visual observing despite some limitations for serious astrophotography.

Is NexStar Evolution 8 portable?

NexStar Evolution 8 is portable. Users carry the telescope by hand for short distances. Disassembly reduces size for transport. Weight of 18.2 kg (40 lbs) allows relatively easy carrying to different locations. Built-in handle on fork arm facilitates lifting. Telescope measures 43.5 inches tall, 24.5 inches wide, 18.5 inches deep when assembled.