Celestron NexStar 5SE Computerized Telescope

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84%
90%
Ease of Use
88%
Setup & Alignment
85%
Portability
83%
Astrophotography Potential
80%
Manual Focus Precision
85%
Build Quality
92%
Value for Money
77%
Eyepiece Quality
72%
Customer Support
89%
Database Accuracy
79%
Compatibility with Accessories
84%
Weight and Storage
More

Overview

The Celestron NexStar 5SE Computerized Telescope offers an easy entry into the world of astronomy with its advanced features and user-friendly design. This 5-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope includes a computerized GoTo mount, allowing you to explore the night sky with ease. The telescope’s compact and portable design makes it perfect for stargazing on the go. Thanks to its SkyAlign technology, even beginners can quickly set it up and start observing celestial bodies without needing to manually align the device.

Features & Benefits

This computerized telescope is packed with advanced features, starting with a 40,000+ object database that ensures accurate targeting of celestial objects. The fully automated mount is controlled via the NexStar+ hand control, making it incredibly easy to use, even for novice astronomers. The telescope also includes a built-in wedge for astrophotography, which allows for long-exposure imaging without field rotation. A 25mm eyepiece provides crisp views of both planets and distant galaxies, while the manual focus allows for more precise adjustments.

Best For

The NexStar 5SE is a great choice for both beginners and intermediate users looking for a reliable telescope. Beginners will appreciate the telescope’s quick setup and automated alignment, eliminating the need for star charts. It's also well-suited for users interested in astrophotography, thanks to the built-in wedge and easy-to-use tracking system. Its portability makes it ideal for those who want to explore the night sky without the hassle of bulky equipment, while still offering high-quality observations.

User Feedback

The NexStar 5SE receives high praise for its ease of setup and reliability, even for first-time users. Many appreciate its portability, making it convenient for stargazing on the go. Users also highlight the precise star tracking and automated GoTo system, which simplify the experience significantly. However, some reviewers mention that while it's excellent for planetary observation, it may require additional accessories for deep-sky imaging. Overall, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive, especially for users seeking a user-friendly telescope.

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Pros

  • This telescope is highly praised for its easy setup, especially with the SkyAlign technology that allows even beginners to get started quickly.
  • Its portability makes it a great option for users who enjoy stargazing in different locations, such as parks or backyards.
  • The 40,000+ object database enables precise targeting of celestial bodies, making it easy to find stars and planets with minimal effort.
  • The manual focus with a 25mm eyepiece provides clear and detailed views, especially for planetary observation.
  • Users appreciate the fully automated GoTo mount, which simplifies the tracking of celestial objects without requiring manual adjustments.
  • Astrophotographers will enjoy the built-in wedge, which facilitates long-exposure imaging for capturing detailed pictures of celestial objects.

Cons

  • Some users feel that the telescope's astrophotography potential is limited without additional accessories, especially for deep-sky imaging.
  • Although the telescope is portable, its weight may be a concern for users looking for a more lightweight option for frequent transport.
  • The telescope's setup process, while easy for beginners, may require more time for those who are trying to adjust the manual focus or learn all features.
  • A few users mentioned that the telescope works best for planetary observation but may not perform as well for deep-sky objects without more advanced equipment.
  • The included 25mm eyepiece is not always sufficient for high-powered views of distant galaxies, prompting some users to upgrade their eyepiece for better clarity.
  • While the NexStar+ hand control is user-friendly, some users noted that it could be more responsive in certain conditions, like during fast star tracking.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from a wide range of sources and languages, including multiple global platforms, the Celestron NexStar 5SE Computerized Telescope received high praise for its user-friendly features and impressive performance. Spam, incentivized, and off-topic reviews were filtered out to ensure only authentic and high-quality feedback influenced the ratings. Both strengths and pain points have been considered in the final scores, offering a balanced view of the product’s overall value and experience.

Ease of Use
90%
Many users highlight the telescope's intuitive setup process, especially the automated alignment. The SkyAlign technology significantly reduces setup time, making it accessible even for beginners with minimal experience in astronomy.
Some users mention that while the initial setup is easy, achieving optimal focus and fine adjustments can take time. Additionally, the manual focus can be a bit tricky for those unfamiliar with telescope operation.
Setup & Alignment
88%
The computerized GoTo mount and SkyAlign technology make alignment quick and straightforward. Users appreciate how quickly they can start observing celestial objects without needing extensive knowledge of star charts or manual adjustments.
A few users noted occasional issues with alignment accuracy, especially after transporting the telescope. Some have found that it requires periodic recalibration to maintain accuracy over time.
Portability
85%
This telescope's compact design and lightweight construction make it easy to carry, perfect for users who enjoy stargazing in various locations. Its portability allows for easy transport to outdoor settings like parks or remote locations.
While portable, the telescope's dimensions may still be cumbersome for some users to manage comfortably during longer trips. Its weight, though reasonable, can be a challenge for those needing to carry it over long distances.
Astrophotography Potential
83%
The built-in wedge is a standout feature for users looking to try astrophotography. The ability to capture long-exposure images adds significant value for those wanting to photograph celestial bodies, including planets and distant stars.
Some users point out that the telescope, while capable of astrophotography, may require additional accessories for optimal performance in this area. The lack of a more advanced imaging setup could limit its appeal to dedicated astrophotographers.
Manual Focus Precision
80%
20%
Many buyers appreciate the precision provided by the manual focus, especially when aiming for detailed views of planets and galaxies. It allows for finer control over the image quality, which is particularly beneficial for viewing distant objects.
However, the manual focus can be frustrating for some users, particularly beginners. It may take time to adjust and is not as seamless as other automatic focusing systems found in more advanced telescopes.
Build Quality
85%
Users praise the solid construction and durability of the telescope, which provides a sense of reliability for both casual and serious astronomy enthusiasts. The materials used are robust, ensuring long-term use and stability during stargazing sessions.
Despite the overall solid build, some users felt that certain components, like the mount or eyepiece, could be improved in terms of quality. A few reviewers also pointed out occasional wobbling issues when the telescope is not fully balanced.
Value for Money
92%
For its features and performance, this telescope offers excellent value. Users feel they get a high-quality, user-friendly device with advanced features like automated alignment and astrophotography potential, at a reasonable price point.
Some buyers believe the cost might be on the higher side for beginners who aren't yet sure about pursuing astronomy as a long-term hobby. A few have mentioned that similar telescopes with fewer features could be found at a lower price.
Eyepiece Quality
77%
23%
The 25mm eyepiece is generally well-regarded for providing decent views of planets and bright objects, offering users a clear and detailed experience right out of the box. It serves as a solid entry-level eyepiece for beginners.
However, some users felt the quality of the eyepiece could be improved, particularly when it comes to viewing fainter objects. The fixed magnification may also limit the telescope's full potential for more advanced stargazing.
Customer Support
72%
28%
Some users reported positive experiences with customer support when resolving technical issues. Celestron’s support team is generally responsive and helpful, providing clear guidance on troubleshooting and setup.
However, a portion of users noted slower-than-expected responses or difficulty reaching support in certain regions. Others felt that the available resources, such as manuals or guides, could be more comprehensive to help with common problems.
Database Accuracy
89%
The telescope's 40,000+ object database is highly praised for its accuracy in targeting celestial objects. Many users found the database comprehensive, making it easy to locate a variety of stars, planets, and deep-sky objects with ease.
A few users mentioned that while the database is vast, it occasionally struggled with finding some fainter celestial objects. In rare cases, the database may miss certain objects, requiring manual searching.
Compatibility with Accessories
79%
21%
This telescope is compatible with a variety of additional accessories, enhancing its versatility for different stargazing or astrophotography needs. Users like the ability to expand their setup with third-party components such as cameras and filters.
However, some users reported challenges in finding compatible accessories that fit the telescope’s specific design. While many accessories are available, the fit and ease of use can vary depending on the brand or model.
Weight and Storage
84%
Many users appreciate the balance between portability and size. The telescope's weight is manageable for most people, and it can be conveniently stored without taking up too much space, making it suitable for casual users with limited storage options.
Despite its portability, some users felt that its size and weight made it less ideal for frequent travel or storage in small spaces. The telescope may not be the best option for those with very limited storage capacity.

Suitable for:

The Celestron NexStar 5SE Computerized Telescope is an excellent choice for beginner to intermediate astronomy enthusiasts looking for an easy-to-use, automated stargazing experience. Its SkyAlign technology simplifies the alignment process, making it ideal for users with little to no experience in astronomy. The telescope's compact and portable design makes it well-suited for those who enjoy stargazing in different locations, such as parks or backyards. Additionally, hobbyists who are interested in astrophotography will benefit from the built-in wedge for long-exposure imaging. It also works well for those who want a versatile, automated telescope for planetary and deep-sky observations without needing complex manual setup.

Not suitable for:

While the Celestron NexStar 5SE offers great features for most users, it may not be the best choice for seasoned astronomers who require more advanced capabilities. Experienced stargazers looking for a telescope with fully automated tracking and advanced imaging might find its astrophotography features somewhat limiting without additional accessories. Additionally, those who need ultra-portability or are constrained by very limited storage may find this model a bit bulky, especially considering its weight and dimensions. It may not meet the needs of serious astrophotographers who are looking for high-end equipment with more customization options for imaging setups.

Specifications

  • Aperture: The telescope has a 127mm (5-inch) aperture, allowing for clear views of planets, stars, and some deep-sky objects.
  • Optical Design: The telescope uses a Schmidt-Cassegrain optical design, providing a compact, high-quality image with minimal distortion.
  • Mount Type: The mount is a computerized GoTo system, automatically pointing the telescope to desired celestial objects from a 40,000+ object database.
  • Alignment Technology: SkyAlign technology simplifies the alignment process, allowing quick setup without requiring precise star charts.
  • Eyepiece: The telescope includes a 25mm eyepiece, providing a good balance between magnification and field of view for most objects.
  • Focus Type: Manual focusing allows users to adjust the clarity of images based on their preference and viewing conditions.
  • Hand Control: The NexStar+ hand control provides easy operation, offering intuitive controls for aligning and tracking celestial bodies.
  • Weight: The telescope weighs 17.6 pounds, making it portable enough for most users but still sturdy enough for stable observations.
  • Dimensions: The telescope's dimensions are 32 x 34 x 52 inches, making it compact enough for easy storage and transport.
  • Power Source: The telescope is powered by 8 Lithium Metal batteries, offering portability for outdoor use without needing an external power source.
  • Database Size: It comes with a 40,000+ celestial object database, ensuring accurate and convenient targeting of a wide range of astronomical objects.
  • Built-in Wedge: The built-in wedge supports long-exposure astrophotography, making the telescope suitable for basic imaging of celestial objects.
  • Finderscope: A reflex finderscope is included for easier targeting and alignment of objects before fine-tuning with the main telescope.
  • Focal Length: The focal length of the telescope is 1250mm, providing a good range of magnification suitable for both planetary and deep-sky observation.
  • Tracking System: The GoTo mount includes tracking features that automatically follow celestial objects, compensating for Earth's rotation.
  • Build Quality: The telescope's build is designed for durability, with materials that provide stability and ensure longevity for regular use.
  • Astrophotography Compatibility: This telescope is compatible with basic astrophotography, especially for planetary imaging, with additional accessories available for deeper sky imaging.
  • Compatibility with Accessories: The telescope is compatible with a variety of third-party accessories, including upgraded eyepieces and cameras for enhanced viewing and imaging.

FAQ

The Celestron NexStar 5SE is a great choice for beginners due to its user-friendly features, including the SkyAlign technology for automatic alignment and the easy-to-use NexStar+ hand control. Its compact design also makes it portable for quick stargazing sessions.

Thanks to the SkyAlign technology, setup is quick and easy. Most users can have the telescope up and running within 10–15 minutes, even if it's their first time using a telescope.

Yes, this telescope is suitable for beginner astrophotography. It features a built-in wedge for long-exposure imaging, though you may need to invest in additional accessories for higher-level astrophotography, especially for deep-sky objects.

Weighing 17.6 pounds, the NexStar 5SE is relatively lightweight for its size, making it portable enough for travel. However, it's heavier than some smaller models, so it might not be ideal for long treks but is well-suited for short trips or backyard use.

The computerized GoTo mount uses a database of over 40,000 celestial objects to automatically point the telescope to your desired target. Simply input the object through the NexStar+ hand control, and the mount will align and track it for you.

This telescope is excellent for viewing planets, moons, and stars. Its 5-inch aperture is ideal for planetary observation, while the large object database allows for easy navigation to thousands of celestial bodies.

Yes, the NexStar 5SE is compatible with many third-party accessories, including upgraded eyepieces, cameras, and filters. This flexibility allows users to enhance their viewing experience or take their astrophotography to the next level.

The NexStar 5SE runs on 8 Lithium Metal batteries, which are included with the telescope. You can also opt for a compatible AC adapter if you plan to use the telescope for extended periods at home.

To align the telescope using SkyAlign, simply point the telescope at any three bright objects in the sky, and the telescope will automatically adjust its alignment. This system eliminates the need for precise star charts, making it a hassle-free setup.

While the NexStar 5SE excels in planetary observation, some users find its performance for deep-sky imaging limited without additional accessories. The included 25mm eyepiece is also adequate for general viewing but may need an upgrade for more detailed distant objects.