What can you see with the Celestron NexStar 8 SE Computerised Telescope

So I decided to buy a Celestron NexStar 8SE. It came in double quick time. As soon as I got it, I knew I would not be disappointed. The tripod it sits on is very sturdy, this has been a weak point in my previous smaller astronomy telescope, so good to see. It's dead easy to assemble, although best to do a trial run in daylight first. Dropping the reflector component whilst putting it together in the dark would be a bit of a bummer! 

Shortly after I got it, there was a clear sky. With Mars, Saturn and Jupiter very visible (Early October 2020) The latter are probably my two favourite celestial objects to see. With the NexStar 8SE you can see surface markings on Jupiter. But more special than that is seeing its moons as they weave past each other when orbiting Jupiter.

Saturn shows up well, and I am always in awe when I see it. With the NexStar 8SE the Cassini division can be seen. As well some of its moons. Looking at the moon is spectacular and in the short time I've had it also seen the Andromeda Galaxy and Mars. So far I haven't used the GoTo function. But I will on darker longer clearer nights.

The thing with telescopes is this: You could get a bigger one. But unless you live in the middle of nowhere with no light pollution, you will want to put it in the car and drive somewhere dark (I often go to a small lay-by close to Jodrell Bank) did that with ease with the NexStar 8SE. But anything much bigger would be problematic and you'll be put off using it.

At the other end, and mindful of spending too much money, getting a smaller scope may only whet your appetite and find you buying a bigger one like this in the end, that's what happened to me. You don't need to be an astronomy genius to justify getting one. I found information on the night sky this month on the Jodrell Bank website, this is also my best source of knowledge. As well as the Stellarium APP planetarium software. (Free on PC, a small amount on Apple) as the best way to navigate the night skies. 

If you are in two minds about getting one an astronomy telescope, so long as you have access to dark skies and are truly curious, get one - you will never regret it, If you live in Times Square - or the middle of London - don't.
Review by Malcolm D.

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