Is the Evolution 8 good for astrophotography?

It works for short-exposure lunar and planetary imaging with a camera, but the alt-az mount causes field rotation on long deep-sky exposures. For serious deep-sky work you would want an equatorial mount.

How does it compare with the NexStar 8SE?

The Evolution 8 adds a built-in rechargeable battery, Wi-Fi, manual clutches and a sturdier single-arm mount. The 8SE is lighter and uses a hand controller with external power.

Do I need to collimate it?

Yes, Schmidt-Cassegrains need occasional collimation. The process is straightforward with the included instructions and holds well once set.

What eyepieces does the kit include?

Five 1.25-inch Plössl eyepieces, a Barlow lens and a set of seven color filters, all in an aluminum carrying case.

Can I use it without a phone?

Yes. The mount can be controlled with the hand controller, and the manual clutches let you move the scope by hand.

How long does the battery last?

Celestron rates it at up to 10 hours of continuous tracking, which covers a full night of observing.

Celestron NexStar Evolution 8" Deluxe Barlow Eyepiece Kit

Q: Where is the Celestron NexStar Evolution 8" Deluxe Barlow Eyepiece Kit cheapest?

At Walmart, for $2,599.99, as of our latest check.

Q: Where can I buy the Celestron NexStar Evolution 8" Deluxe Barlow Eyepiece Kit?

2 stores we checked sell it, including Walmart, Best Buy.

Best price now

$2,599.99at WalmartChecked Nov 8

Compared across 2 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

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What reviewers say

Owners of the Evolution 8 generally praise its tracking, built-in battery and Wi-Fi control, calling it a convenient step up for visual astronomy. The bundled eyepiece kit draws more mixed comments: useful as a starter set, but the eyepieces and filters are seen as entry-level.

What people mention

TrackingPraisedOwners say the GoTo mount keeps objects centered well once alignment succeeds.
BatteryPraisedThe internal lithium-ion battery is widely liked for lasting a full session without cords.
WeightCriticisedMany owners find the assembled scope heavy and awkward to move.
AlignmentMixedSome find app-based alignment quick, while others report failed or repeated alignments.
EyepiecesCriticisedThe included Plössls are described as serviceable starter optics with tight eye relief.
SetupMixedFirst-time setup is manageable but takes practice, especially for the Wi-Fi connection.

About the Celestron NexStar Evolution 8" Deluxe Barlow Eyepiece Kit

You can explore the wonders of the universe with the Nexstar Evolution 8 Telescope and Celestron Skyportal app for iOS and Android. This robotic Wi-Fi telescope with a computerized GoTo mount features brass worm gears and motors of better accuracy with less gear backlash. Enjoy up to 10 hours of continuous observing thanks to the rechargeable lithium-ion battery. Its intuitive design also features manual clutches, integrated carry handles, two accessory trays, and a USB port for your smartphone. The Deluxe Barlow Eyepiece Kit provides additional goodies like five superior-grade 1.25-inch Plössl eyepieces with fully multicolored maximum resolution and fantastic contrast, and the two high-grade lenses ensure that there is no degradation of the image. You can also enjoy one of seven filters for better viewing of planets and moons. When you're done, put everything into the sturdy aluminum carrying case for easy transportation and storage.