Celestron NexStar 8 SE Schmidt-Cassegrain Computerized Telescope with SkyPortal WiFi Module

My first go-to scope, and I couldn't be happier with it. The SkyPortal dongle, along with its app, makes three-star alignments easy & quick. Since I am a direct viewer - not into astrophotography (yet), this has enabled me to view DSOs that I hadn't been able to find with my earlier scopes.Very happy with this purchase!

This review is for the 8SE. As this is my first telescope, I don't have much to compare it to. What I will say is that it has met my expectations. It was very easy to learn to use.That said, do expect to have to get some accessories. Mine came with the Wifi module. If it hadn't, I would have purchased it. It help immensely. You will also need eyepieces. I would start with a reasonably priced zoom lens (the celestron works fine), but I also got some additional sets. Additionally, unless you live in a very dark sky area, consider a broadband light pollution reduction filter. Even in relatively dark areas, it makes things like nebulas pop. You will probably also need some type of power bank. I have a lithium ion battery designed primarily as a car jumpstarter. Works great. You might also need some dew heaters, or at least a dew shield, depending on where you live. Finally, some type of adjustable chair is helpful (I got one from amazon designed for this purpose). I say all this to inform that things can get a bit pricey. How far you go down the rabbit hole is up to you. After a few weeks, I have to say I've gone pretty far, with everything from vibration reducers to the heat control module, and I see that there is much more I can do still (and I haven't even gone in the direction of photography thankfully). For me, though, it has been worth it.All that said, I am sure many are wondering if this is outdated compared to some of the other models, as I did. The wifi module seems to solve issues on that front. It interacts with the latest apps great, whether that be what comes with the telescope or the upgraded SkySafari Pro app. I have done some limited testing with a PC, and it works fine. It tracks well, and the mount is sturdy.All in all, I have enjoyed it immensely and I am happy with the purchase.

This is a great telescope so long as you don't mind putting a little bit of effort into your observing sessions. Using the AA batteries for power is typically not recommended by other owners as it can lead to alignment issues. So, you'll likely want another power source available, which means something else to carry outside. You'll also have to do the go to alignment, which isn't always perfect on the first try.If you buy this with the WiFi kit you will want the extension cable for the wifi module, because it does stick up quite a bit, limiting the telescope's movement towards the zenith.That said once you've got it rocking it provides some fantastic views. The size makes it capable of some high magnification which is great for planets. I added, and highly recommend, the 2 inch eyepiece kit from Celestron. One reason is that this makes it easier to get into lower magnification and wide field of views, which can be better for deep space objects.

I have had this six weeks but I am still learning how to operate it, This Telescope is a big improvement over my 12 year old dobsonian, but I am enjoying every minute of it. We travel in an RV so the fact that it breaks down and fits in a relatively small area is a big plus. Its a great scope with excellent clarity, it is especially good for the DSO's that I seek out.

This is a great telescope. Very easy to use. Even from my light polluted backyard rings of Saturn with the Cassini division is clearly visible. Orion Nebula is also visible without any filter. Very happy with the telescope.

Zero stars if I could. I don't know if it's the motor burning out or what but the directional buttons only work long enough to center your first object in the finder scope but don't do anything afterwards. MASSIVE disappointment after above average shipping time. Would not recommend buying.

I’ve wanted a Celestron C8 for decades. It was definitely worth the wait. Easy setup, and impressive image quality.

I hate it because after I aligned it to three stars and accepted it, I couldn’t see anything thru the lens. I also have to set it up over and over again when I turned it on