Celestron NexStar SE - 5, 6 & 8 inches

The classic among GoTo telescopes

The Celestron NexStar SE Series has been an icon among amateur astronomers for years. The orange tube combines Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with a fully motorized GoTo mount in a compact, portable package. With the push of a button, the NexStar+ hand controller brings over 40,000 celestial objects into view: from the Moon and planets to star clusters and nebulae. Choose the size that fits you above: 5, 6, or 8 inches. We sell the compact 4SE Maksutov as a separate product.

SkyAlign: align in three steps

Aim the telescope at three random bright stars and the SkyAlign technology does the rest: the mount will then know exactly where everything is. The hand controller also offers SkyTour, an automatic tour of that evening's highlights, and Cordwrap Protection against cable tangling. The alt-azimuth mount automatically tracks any chosen object, keeping it steadily in the eyepiece.

Schmidt-Cassegrain Optics with StarBright XLT

Every NexStar SE uses the Schmidt-Cassegrain design: a long focal length in a short, lightweight tube. The StarBright XLT coating maximizes light transmission for high-contrast images. The 8SE is the flagship with a 203mm aperture and 1.5 times more light gathering power than the 6SE. The 6SE is the balance between light-gathering power and portability, the 5SE is the quickest setup travel companion.

Compact and easy to take along

The tube and mount detach from the steel tripod in seconds via the quick-release system. Depending on the model, the entire unit weighs 10 to 15 kg, so a dark observation spot is always within reach. The accessory tray in the tripod keeps eyepieces and filters handy.

Looking visually or taking pictures: both

By default, you get a 25mm eyepiece and a 1.25-inch star diagonal for direct images of the Moon and planets. If you want to take photos, you replace the eyepiece with a T-adapter with a DSLR or planetary camera. The Celestron ecosystem grows with you: from StarSense AutoAlign and the SkyPortal WiFi module to motor focusers and filter sets. You can control the system from your laptop, if desired, via the CPWI software.

What size suits you?

Choose the 5SE when portability is a top priority: set up in two minutes, ideal for the balcony and vacations. The 6SE is the all-around model, offering merk more detail on planets. The 8SE is for those who want to see as much as possible: globular clusters become distinct, and galaxies reveal their structure. All three use the same mount, hand controller, and accessories.

Compare the three models

What's in the box?

• Optical tube with StarBright XLT coating
• Single-arm fork mount with GoTo motors
• NexStar+ hand controller
• Steel tripod with accessory tray
• 25 mm eyepiece (1.25 inch)
• Zenith mirror (1.25 inch)
• Red dot finder

Featured accessories

• The Celestron PowerTank Lithium LT Powers the GoTo mount all night; batteries drain quickly in the cold.
• A moon filter (1.25 inch) The bright moonlight filters through these openings.

Still unsure about the right model? Our Buyer's guide for beginners and the telescope selection aid help you step by step. Also check out all the catadioptric telescopes or the full range on the Celestron merk Page. You can read more background information about the merk in the Celestron merk Guide.