The NexStar Evolution - not just the next evolution of telescope, the logical evolution.
A pioneer in the manufacture of high-quality low-cost Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes, Celestron continues to draw customers in with its new Aplanatic Schmidt-Cassegrain optics, nicknamed "EdgeHD", which virtually eliminates coma abberation and field curvature. Stars will appear pin-point from edge to edge, with very low distortion near the edges.
Wirelessly control the telescope using your smartphone or tablet (smart device) without having to buy extra hardware. The built-in Wi-Fi creates a short-range wireless area network which you can connect to with your smart device. If you don't have a smart device with you, you can resort to the included wired hand control, so you never have to worry about being able to use your telescope.
The StarSense Autoalign makes alignment extremely easy. Using the module's built-in camera, the telescope performs its alignment procedure automatically. Make a coffee and relax while the telescope builds up its internal model automatically.
The Celestron mobile astronomy app makes selecting objects to view easier than ever. An interactive graphical facsimile of the night sky is drawn on-screen. Move the map around, pinch-zoom in and out, and easily select objects and have the telescope synchronize its view to the same locations. Once an object is placed in the eyepiece, the telescope will keep the object in the eyepiece.
Celestron's legendary Schmidt-Cassegrain optics deliver sharp images with low spherical aberration. The EdgeHD optics deliver a crisp image edge-to-edge, necessary for photography. The waterwhite corrector lens coupled with XLT Starbright coatings greatly reduce reflections to increase light transmission and contrast.
The NexStar Evolution mount features a fresh new look. The robust metal mono-fork reduces weight (compared to dual forks) for increased portability. Dual-axis clutches have been added to allow for manual pointing with the power off. Dual-axis worm gears and improved motors drive the telescope smoothly and precisely, for tracking fit for astrophotography, with low backlash. Upgradeable to the Celestron Pro HD Wedge for long-exposure photography. Eyepiece holders on the mount are conveniently located for easy access, and are illuminated. Large ergonomic handles make for easy transporting and setup.
The tripod received attention as well, with etched markings to make leveling the tripod easier. The accessory tray has places to hold three additional 1.25" eyepieces and one 2" eyepiece.
The on-board rechargeable lithium-ion battery delivers enough power for 10 hours of continuous observing. An on-board USB port allows for powering and recharging of smartphones and tablets - perfect for marathon observing sessions.
Dual breather ports with 60 micon mesh filters are located behind the primary mirror to help rid the optical tube of undesirable thermal differences while keeping dust out of the equipment. The faster the scope can reach equilibrium, the sooner you can get busy under the stars.
Dual mirror locks work in concert with the helical focus and primary mirror baffle to prevent unwanted mirror movement over the course of a long exposure.