Is the NexStar 8 SE good for a beginner?

Yes, if you want aperture and computer pointing. SkyAlign gets you aligned without knowing star names, and the hand control guides you to targets. Expect a few sessions to learn the menus.

Can I take photos with it?

It works for short-exposure lunar and planetary shots with a camera or phone adapter. The alt-az mount causes field rotation on long exposures, so deep-sky imaging needs a wedge or a different mount.

How does it compare with the NexStar 6 SE?

The 8 SE has a larger 8-inch mirror, so it shows more detail and fainter objects. It is heavier and costs more, but uses the same mount family and hand control.

Does it need batteries?

It runs on AA batteries, but they drain quickly, especially in cold weather. Most owners use a rechargeable power tank or an AC adapter.

The 8-inch optical tube, single-arm GoTo mount and tripod, a 25 mm eyepiece, a red-dot finder and the hand control. This bundle adds a night vision flashlight, a sky maps book, a 1.25-inch moon filter and a cleaning kit.

Can it be used manually without power?

You can release the clutches and move it by hand, but you lose tracking and GoTo. For guided viewing, keep it powered.

Celestron NexStar 8 SE Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope with Accessory Kit

Q: Where is the Celestron NexStar 8 SE Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope with Accessory Kit cheapest?

At Adorama, for $1,499.00, as of our latest check.

Q: What do buyers say about the Celestron NexStar 8 SE Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope with Accessory Kit?

Rated 4.7 out of 5 from 10 ratings.

Q: Where can I buy the Celestron NexStar 8 SE Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope with Accessory Kit?

2 stores we checked sell it, including Walmart, Adorama.

Best price now

$1,499.00at AdoramaChecked Nov 8

Compared across 2 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when. Store links may earn us a commission. Price via Klarna.

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What reviewers say

4.7 / 510 ratings

Owners rate it highly as a first serious telescope, praising the aperture, the easy SkyAlign routine and the light weight for its size. Complaints center on mount stability and the basic included eyepiece and finder.

What people mention

OpticsPraisedOwners say the 8-inch aperture delivers sharp lunar and planetary views and pulls in faint deep-sky objects.
AlignmentPraisedSkyAlign is described as fast and forgiving, even for people who cannot identify stars.
Mount stabilityCriticisedReviewers report vibration in wind and while focusing, which hurts high-power viewing.
PortabilityPraisedThe tube and mount separate into light pieces that are easy to carry outside.
Included accessoriesMixedThe kit items are useful, but the stock eyepiece and red-dot finder are seen as basic.

About the Celestron NexStar 8 SE Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope with Accessory Kit

Just imagine the universe at your fingertips with the NexStar 8 SE Schmidt-Cassegrain Computerized Telescope. This high-quality telescope, a proud member of Celestron's renowned orange optical tube family, offers a seamless blend of traditional design and advanced technology. The NexStar 8 SE is more than just a telescope; it's your personal guide to the cosmos. Equipped with a fully computerized operating system and a flash upgradeable hand control, this telescope is designed to make your stargazing experience as effortless as possible. With the revolutionary SkyAlign telescope alignment software, setting up your telescope is a breeze. Simply input the date, time, and location, then align the telescope with any three bright celestial objects. The telescope does the rest, even if you don't know the names of the stars or planets.But the NexStar 8 SE doesn't stop at locating celestial bodies. It's also an educational tool, providing information about the most popular objects directly on the LCD screen of your hand control. With the ability to locate nearly 40,000 objects, you'll never run out of new celestial wonders to explore.This bundle also includes a night vision flashlight, a sky maps book, a 1.25" moon filter, and a cleaning kit. The night vision flashlight aids in preserving your night vision during your stargazing sessions, while the sky maps book serves as a handy guide to the stars. The moon filter enhances your lunar viewing experience, and the cleaning kit ensures your telescope stays in top condition.Whether you're a seasoned astronomer seeking a portable scope with advanced features, or a beginner embarking on your first astronomy adventure, the NexStar 8 SE Schmidt-Cassegrain Computerized Telescope offers an easy and enjoyable way to explore the night sky. Experience the wonders of the universe like never before with this state-of-the-art telescope.