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Celestron
Celestron NexStar Evolution 8 Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope

Celestron NexStar Evolution 8 Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope

Best price now

$1,999.00at Best BuyChecked Nov 8

Compared across 3 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

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Price facts

  • Last seen at $1,999.00 at Best Buy on Nov 8.
  • Checked at 3 stores.

Our take on the Celestron NexStar Evolution 8 Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope

The NexStar Evolution 8 is an 8-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain on a motorized single-fork alt-az mount with built-in Wi-Fi. Its 2032 mm focal length at f/10 gives sharp lunar, planetary and deep-sky views, and the internal battery plus Wi-Fi control set it apart from the manual NexStar SE line. It suits observers who want a large-aperture, app-controlled scope without running cables to a power pack. Reviewers rate the optics and tracking highly but note the mount's weight and the need for a wedge for long-exposure imaging.

Best forBackyard stargazers wanting a large computerized scopeBeginners who prefer app control over a hand controllerPlanetary and lunar observersVisual deep-sky viewing from dark sites
Pros
  • 8-inch aperture pulls in faint galaxies and nebulae
  • Built-in Wi-Fi works with the SkyPortal app on phone or tablet
  • Rechargeable internal battery runs for hours without a power cable
  • Sturdy single-fork mount tracks objects smoothly
  • StarBright XLT coatings boost light transmission
  • Accepts DSLR cameras and a wedge for astrophotography
Cons
  • Heavy and bulky to carry fully assembled
  • Alt-az mount limits long-exposure imaging without the optional wedge
  • Wi-Fi can drop in crowded 2.4 GHz areas
  • Narrow f/10 field of view needs a reducer for wide targets
  • Setup and alignment take practice for first-time users

Celestron NexStar Evolution 8 Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope prices at every store

  • Best BuyNew

    In stock

    $1,999.00Free shippingChecked Nov 8
    Visit Best Buy
  • Celestron.comNew

    In stock

    $1,999.00Free shippingChecked Nov 8
    Visit Celestron.com
  • AmazonNew

    Availability unknown

    As an Amazon Associate, Deal.ai earns from qualifying purchases.

    $2,392.61+ $102.50 shippingChecked Nov 8
    Visit Amazon

Celestron NexStar Evolution 8 Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope price history

Lowest price we've seen: $1,999.00 on Nov 8 at Best Buy. Tracked across 3 stores since Nov 8.

What reviewers say

Owners praise the sharp optics, steady tracking and cable-free Wi-Fi operation. Many call it a strong first serious scope. Complaints center on weight, occasional Wi-Fi dropouts and the extra cost of a wedge for imaging.

What people mention
  • OpticsPraisedOwners report sharp, bright views of planets and the Moon with the 8-inch aperture.
  • BatteryPraisedThe built-in rechargeable battery is a favorite feature, lasting a full evening session.
  • Wi-FiMixedWi-Fi control is convenient but some users see dropouts and reconnection issues.
  • WeightCriticisedMany find the assembled scope heavy and awkward to carry outside.
  • MountPraisedThe single-fork mount tracks smoothly and feels stable during viewing.
  • AstrophotographyMixedCamera use works, but long exposures need the optional wedge and add complexity.

Specifications

Product Type
Telescope
Magnification
51x (with 40 mm eyepiece)
Maximum Magnification
480x
Minimum Magnification
29x
Recording Capability
Yes (capture images of deep-sky objects)
Focal Length
2032 mm
Focal Ratio
f/10

Questions and answers

Is the NexStar Evolution 8 good for beginners?
Yes, if you can handle its size. The SkyPortal app guides alignment and object finding, so you skip star charts. The weight and setup are the main hurdles for a first scope.
How does it compare with the NexStar 8SE?
The Evolution adds a built-in battery, Wi-Fi and a sturdier single-fork mount. The 8SE uses the same 8-inch optical tube but needs external power and a hand controller.
Can I take photos with it?
Yes. It accepts a DSLR, and the mount tracks for short exposures. Long-exposure deep-sky imaging needs the optional HD Pro Wedge to counter field rotation.
What eyepieces come in the box?
It ships with a 40 mm eyepiece giving about 51x, plus a finderscope and star diagonal. A 2x Barlow or a shorter eyepiece gets you to higher magnifications.
How long does the battery last?
Celestron rates the internal battery for roughly 10 hours of tracking. In practice most owners get a full evening or two per charge.
Can I use it with a camera or computer over USB?
Yes. It has USB and Wi-Fi, so you can control the mount from a computer or update firmware. Camera control is separate and depends on your imaging setup.
Where is the Celestron NexStar Evolution 8 Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope cheapest?
At Best Buy, for $1,999.00, as of our latest check.
Where can I buy the Celestron NexStar Evolution 8 Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope?
3 stores we checked sell it, including Best Buy, Celestron.com, Amazon.

Stores we've priced the Celestron NexStar Evolution 8 Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope at

  • Best Buy deals and prices

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Performance Resolution
0.57 arc seconds (dawes)
Performance Brightness
843x (compared to human eye)
Performance Contrast
Increased (with dew shield)
Aperture
8-inch
Objective Diameter
203.2 mm (8-inches)
Optical Type
Schmidt-Cassegrain
Optical Diameter
8-inch
Barlow Lens
Compatible
Finderscope
Yes
Supported Accessories
HD Pro Wedge, CPC tripod
Camera Adaptable
Yes (DSLR camera)
Computerized Functionality
Yes
Connectivity Interface
Wi-Fi, USB
USB
Yes
Connectivity Type
Wi-Fi, Wireless
Motorized Mount
Yes