3 best computerized telescopes

Computerized telescopes, also known as computer-controlled or GoTo telescopes, are advanced astronomical instruments that use technology to automatically locate and track celestial objects. They integrate electronics and motors to enhance the user experience, particularly for amateur astronomers and astrophotographers.

GoTo Technology:
- Computerized telescopes utilize GoTo technology, which allows users to select celestial objects from a built-in or external database. The telescope then automatically slews (moves) to the desired object, aligning itself accurately.
Alignment and Calibration:
- To function accurately, computerized telescopes typically require an alignment process where the user aligns the telescope with known stars or objects. This allows the telescope's computer to establish its position and orientation.
Database and Object Catalogs:
- Computerized telescopes have an extensive database of celestial objects, including stars, planets, nebulae, galaxies, and more.Users can choose objects from these catalogs for the telescope to locate.
Hand Controller or App Interface:
- Users can control computerized telescopes using a hand controller with a digital display or through a smartphone or tablet app. The interface allows for object selection, tracking, and sometimes even integration with other astronomy apps for additional features.
Tracking and Motorization:
- Computerized telescopes are equipped with motors that allow for precise tracking of celestial objects. This ensures that the object stays in the field of view, compensating for the Earth's rotation.
Integration with Cameras and Photography:
- Many computerized telescopes can be integrated with cameras, allowing for astrophotography. The telescope can track celestial objects during long-exposure photography, enabling the capture of detailed images.
Types, such as Refractors:
- Computerized telescopes come in various types, including refractors (telescopes that use lenses to gather and focus light) and others like reflectors and compound telescopes. Refractors are known for their clear and crisp views, making them popular in the astrophotography community.
Accessories and Add-ons:
- Users can enhance the capabilities of computerized telescopes with accessories such as specialized eyepieces, filters, and focal reducers, improving their overall observing and imaging experiences.
Popular Brands and Models:
- There are several reputable brands that manufacture computerized telescopes, such as Celestron, SkyWatcher, Meade Instruments, Orion Telescopes, and Explore Scientific. Popular models include Celestron NexStar series, SkyWatcher SynScan series, and Meade LX200 series.

When considering a computerized telescope, factors such as aperture size (the diameter of the telescope's main lens or mirror), the type of celestial objects you want to observe or photograph, and ease of use are important considerations. Additionally, the telescope's compatibility with various accessories and its integration with modern technology can influence your choice.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best computerized telescopes on the market

Celestron - NexStar 127SLT Computerized Telescope - Compact and Portable - Maksutov-Cassegrain Optical Design - SkyAlign Technology - Computerized Hand Control - 127mm Aperture

Celestron

Based on 629 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Building on the popularity of our NexStar 114SLT telescope, the 127SLT by Celestron inspires us to go bigger, with 20% more light-gathering power than our 114mm telescope. The Celestron NexStar 127SLT is a computerized telescope that offers a database of more than 40,000 stars, galaxies, nebulae, and more. The telescope locates your object with pinpoint accuracy and tracks it. At the heart of the telescope’s Maksutov-Cassegrain optical design, a large 127mm primary mirror gives fully color-corrected views ideal for astronomical use. The 127SLT comes with a fully computerized NexStar+ hand control. The computerized hand control gives you the ability to automatically slew to any object.

This telescope for adults and kids to be used together is ideal for weekend camping trips or excursions to dark sky sites. Its compact form factor makes it easy to transport and assemble just about anywhere. With its pre-assembled, adjustable steel tripod, the NexStar 127SLT can be up and ready to use in a matter of minutes. Our SkyAlign alignment technology and the included StarPointer Finderscope with a red LED make aligning a breeze. Simply center any three bright objects in the eyepiece and the NexStar SLT aligns to the night sky, ready to locate thousands of objects. The NexStar 127SLT Computerized GoTo Telescope also includes a free download of our Starry Night Special Edition astronomy software for an interactive sky simulation.

The power of this computerized telescope allows you to view the details of the lunar surface, the rings of Saturn, the polar ice caps on Mars, the cloud belts on Jupiter, and a number of the Messier objects, such as the globular cluster in Hercules (M13) or the Great Nebula in Orion (M42). Explore some of the fainter Messier objects using the additional light-gathering capabilities of the 127SLT’s five-inch primary mirror.

Buy with confidence from the world’s #1 telescope brand, based in California since 1960. You’ll also receive a two-year warranty and unlimited access to technical support from our team of US-based experts.

Computerized star locating telescope: The Celestron NexStar 127SLT is a computerized telescope that offers a database of more than 40,000 stars, galaxies, nebulae, and more. The telescope locates your object with pinpoint accuracy and tracks it.
Compact and portable: This telescope for adults and kids to be used together is ideal for weekend camping trips or excursions to dark sky sites. Its compact form factor makes it easy to transport and assemble just about anywhere.
Maksutov-cassegrain optical design: The NexStar 127SLT is the second-largest in the SLT family. The 127mm aperture gathers enough light to see our Solar System and beyond. View Saturn’s rings, Jupiter’s cloud bands, and the Moon in brilliant detail.
Fast setup with skyalign: Celestron’s proprietary SkyAlign procedure has you ready to observe in minutes. Simply center any three bright objects in the eyepiece and the NexStar SLT aligns to the night sky, ready to locate thousands of objects.
Bonus free starry night software: The NexStar 127SLT Computerized Telescope includes a free download of one of the top consumer rated astronomy software programs for an interactive sky simulation.
Unbeatable warranty and customer support: Buy with confidence from the world’s #1 telescope brand, based in California since 1960. You’ll also receive a two-year warranty and unlimited access to technical support from our team of US-based experts.

User questions & answers

Question:	is this a "GoTo" scope with the computerized library of stars etc
Answer:	Lewis, I am not a much on info with respect to your question, thus. I have included a link to where you can further your search: vivitar.com link= . Otherwise read the product descrition on the page, or see all Q&As on the product. Copy the link only to paste in your browser dude, not vivitar.com. Good luck and enjoy your shopping experience from Joes' Crazy Discounts and Amazon. Visit my page, buy my product and I will upgrade shipping free. (provided you do not live off the mainland USA)
Question:	What additional filters and lenses (brands/types) would you recommend getting for those of you who got others? I'd like a nice moon filter for sure
Answer:	Return through Amazon
Question:	Aside from the 1 inch aperture difference, what are the differences between the nexstar 127slt and the similarly priced nexstar 4se
Answer:	Does this bundle come with a battery charger?
Question:	Has anyone compared nexstar 127 slt to nexstar 130 slt
Answer:	You can get specs by going to Best Buy site which is what I did. don't know how how much it weighs. It's 4"x2"x 1.44"

Product features

Embark On A Voyage Of Discovery

A fully computerized GoTo telescope designed with beginner to intermediate users in mind.

Accessories Included

You receive a red dot StarPointer finderscope and 2 eyepieces (25mm and 9mm). The telescope also includes an adjustable, full-height steel tripod with accessory tray to keep you organized in the field.

Celestron - NexStar 4SE Telescope - Computerized Telescope for Beginners and Advanced Users - Fully-Automated GoTo Mount - SkyAlign Technology - 40,000+ Celestial Objects - 4-Inch Primary Mirror

Celestron

Based on 421 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The best telescope is the one used often to enjoy the beauty and intrigue of the night sky. For those searching for telescopes for astronomy beginners that are infused with the latest computer technology, Celestron’s NexStar 4SE Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope fits the bill perfectly. The NexStar 4SE Computerized Telescope features Celestron’s iconic “orange tube” design and updated technology with the latest features for amazing stargazing for beginners and experienced observers. Celestron’s signature telescope combines advanced features and excellent optics in one easy-to-use system, the NexStar 4SE. It’s the perfect choice for your first serious telescope, offering striking views at an economical price. The four-inch primary mirror in this computerized telescope packs enough light-gathering ability to observe the best that our Solar System has to offer, from Saturn’s rings to the cloud bands on Jupiter and geographic features on the surface of the Moon. When it comes to deep sky objects, take your 4SE to a dark-sky site and you’ll see hundreds of pinpoint stars in the Hercules Globular Cluster, the spiral arms of the Whirlpool Galaxy, and more. Featuring a database of more than 40,000 celestial objects, the 4SE’s GoTo mount automatically locates and tracks objects for you. You can also take a Sky Tour and let your telescope show you the best objects currently visible. The single fork arm design and sturdy steel tripod all assemble and break down from separate components for easy transportation. SkyAlign technology gets your telescope aligned and ready to observe in minutes. Even if you’re unfamiliar with the night sky, you can easily align your telescope on any 3 bright objects. The NexStar 4SE is a telescope that will grow with you as you advance in the hobby of astronomy. It’s compatible with all the high-tech accessories advanced users love. Provide GPS coordinates to your telescope with SkySync, or add automatic alignment functionality with StarSense AutoAlign. Buy with confidence from the world’s #1 telescope brand, based in California since 1960. You’ll also receive a two-year warranty and unlimited access to technical support from our team of US-based experts.

From the Manufacturer

Manufacturer Description

Featuring high-quality Maksutov-Cassegrain optics, the NexStar 4SE is an ideal telescope for observing and photographing the wonders of space. With a total weight of 21 pounds including the tripod, the ultra portable 4SE features a precision optical system with 1,325mm focal length (f13) and is the first Maksutov system to ever feature our premium StarBright XLT coatings.

The 4SE includes a camera control feature that allows you to remotely take a series of timed exposures using your digital SLR camera. Plus the flip mirror control, straight-through photographic port, and tripod featuring a built-in wedge help make short-exposure astrophotography a heavenly experience.

The NexStar 4SE has all the same features as Celestron's most advanced computerized GoTo telescopes, including our revolutionary SkyAlign alignment technology, a sky tour feature, a database of nearly 40,000 celestial objects, and easy-to-use hand control.

Plug the optional CN-16 GPS accessory into NexStar's auxiliary port and download data from orbiting GPS satellites for truly quick and easy alignments. The universe may be full of mysteries, but using the NexStar 4SE isn't one of them.

In the tradition of Celestron's famous orange optical tubes, the NexStar SE Family combines the classic heritage of the original orange tube telescopes with state-of-the-art features including a fully computerized operating system, flash upgradeable hand control, our superior StarBright XLT coatings, our revolutionary SkyAlign telescope alignment software, and much more.

Whether you are a seasoned astronomer looking for a portable scope with advanced features, or just starting your astronomy adventure and looking for an easy way to enjoy the night sky, a NexStar SE will help you take a closer look. Every NexStar SE includes a version of The Sky software Level 1 Planetarium software for exploring the Universe on your PC and printing out custom star charts of the sky. In addition, you receive our NexRemote software that allows you to operate your telescope via your PC. This software package, valued at over $100, is included free with your NexStar SE!

General Features:

4-inch Maksutov-Cassegrain telescope
SE combines the classic heritage of the original orange tube telescopes with the latest state-of-the-art features
StarBright XLT high transmission coatings come standard
StarPointer finderscope to help with alignment and accurately locating objects
Internal flip mirror for convenient viewing straight through (with optional diagonal) or at 90 degrees
Quick-release fork arm mount, optical tube, and accessory tray for no-tool setup
Sturdy computerized altazimuth mount
Internal battery compartment to prevent cord wrap during use
Ultra sturdy steel tripod features built-in wedge which allows 4SE to be used for astrophotography
Includes CD-ROM "The Sky" astronomy software which provides education about the sky and printable sky maps

Computerized Features:

Proven NexStar computer control technology
Nearly 40,000 object database with 200 user-definable objects and expanded information on over 200 objects
SkyAlign allows you to align on any three bright celestial objects, making for a fast and easy alignment process
Flash upgradeable hand control software and motor control units for downloading product updates over the Internet
Includes a camera control feature and shutter release cable that allows you to remotely take a series of exposures using your digital SLR camera
Custom database lists of all the most famous deep-sky objects by name and catalog number; the most beautiful double, triple and quadruple stars; variable star; solar systems; objects and asterisms
DC Servo motors with encoders on both axes
Double line, 16-character liquid crystal display hand control with backlit LED buttons for easy operation of go-to features
NexRemote telescope control software and RS-232 cable included for advanced control of your telescope via computer
GPS-compatible with optional CN16 GPS accessory

Nexstar computerized telescope: The NexStar 4SE Computerized Telescope features Celestron’s iconic orange tube design with updated technology and the latest features for amazing stargazing for beginners and experienced observers.
4-Inch aperture: The four-inch primary mirror in this Maksutov-Cassegrain telescope for adults and kids to be used together packs enough light-gathering ability to observe the best that our Solar System has to offer, while retaining a compact form factor.
Fully-automated go to mount: Featuring a database of more than 40,000 celestial objects, the go to mount built into our telescopes for astronomy beginners automatically locates and tracks objects for you.
Bonus free starry night software: The NexStar 4SE Telescope includes a FREE download of one of the top consumer rated astronomy software programs for an interactive sky simulation.
Unbeatable warranty and customer support: Buy with confidence from the world’s #1 telescope brand, based in California since 1960. You’ll also receive a two-year warranty and unlimited access to technical support from our team of US-based experts.

Product features

Your Journey Through The Cosmos Begins Here

Celestron’s signature 'orange tube' telescope, designed to deliver one of the best stargazing experience for users of all levels

Fast Setup with SkyAlign

Celestron’s proprietary SkyAlign procedure has you ready to observe in minutes. Center any three bright objects in the eyepiece and NexStar SE aligns to the night sky, ready to locate thousands of stars, galaxies, and more.

Meade Instruments – StarNavigator NG 102mm Aperture Computerized GoTo Refracting Astronomy Telescope w/AudioStar 30,000+ Object-Database & Audio Tours – Mount & Tripod Included – Amateur Astronomer

MEADE

Based on 28 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Expand your knowledge of objects in the night sky with the Meade Instruments StarNavigator Next Generation 102mm reflecting, achromatic telescope. The StarNavigator guides desirable views with the AudioStar hand controller, equipped with over 4 hours of audio presentations and 30,000 plus programmed celestial objects. With an average weight of 14.7 lbs, the telescope consists of a 102mm aperture, combined with a focal length of 660mm. Equipped with several accessories: 2 MA eye pieces, a red-dot viewfinder, and a level compass. In order to take your adventures on the go, the StarNavigator NG comes with a standing tripod, single-arm mount and a vixen-style dovetail receiver; allowing you to use a variety of optical tube assemblies. Take yourself into another lifetime with a Next Generation series that provides a simple to use telescope powered by AA batteries or an external power source. Be prepared to find your next adventure under the stars!

BEGINNER AND INTERMEDIATE USER: Meade Instruments guides tours and desirable views with the AudioStar Hand Controller equipped with 4 hours of audio presentations and 30,000 plus programmed celestial objects guiding your eyes to easier viewing
INCREASED VIEWING: Provides a promising view with a 102mm aperture and 660mm focal length
EASY TO USE: Quality nighttime view with vixen-style dovetail receiver, allowing you to use a variety of optical tube assemblies
DURABLE EQUIPMENT: Includes a full size aluminum tripod with accessory tray and 2 1.25 MA eyepieces, measuring at 9mm and 26mm each
SPACE ADMIRERS: Presents an on the go computerized, single-arm mount with 12V DC Servo Drive

User questions & answers

Question:	I live in alaska at about 61n latitude. are there any geographic limitations on the controller's database
Answer:	Wow!! I imagine seen Polaris right in top of my head. I don’t think that there are any limitations as long as you look the sky and see stars. Good luck and good stargazing 🌟🌗🌔
Question:	Can this telescope be taken apart for travelling
Answer:	The mount, Optical Tube and tripod can be taken apart. You can even transport it with our Telescope bag for StarNavigator NG 90 refractor (part # 205004).
Question:	Come with tripode
Answer:	Yes. It comes with a tripod and accessory tray.
Question:	How does it do for taking pictures
Answer:	I have taken some decent pictures with this telescope. I got it as my first one. A couple things to bear in mind though, there is going to be a little bit of chromatic abrasion in this telescope. More importantly though, the tripod/mount is not meant for moving a large camera rig so it may not slew accurately if you have a large SLR camera mounted to it, and the tripod is a risk of tipping over at some angles. I have had decent success imaging the moon, Mars, Saturn, and Jupiter using my Pixel 2 XL and a phone mount for the telescope. The planets are going to be blurry, but identifiable. Also the included eyepieces are pretty cheap, and add a significant curvature to the image. Ultimately this is a great scope for someone looking to get into stargazing and want to learn about the night sky from the AudioStar controller, but for photography, you need to keep the equipment light or use a better tripod/mount system. But it can do the job. Looking back I probably would have bought something like the Meade Infinity and spent the other $300 on equipment for photography. I posted a picture I took of the moon using this telescope and my cellphone on my personal Instagram @devonabeckett. https://www.instagram.com/p/BkPDSL0HkEC