154 replies to this topic

[Michael Tomich]

Wow, what great feedback in  short period of time. Thank you so much. I am trending toward the Apertura AD8 but only if I am convinced that Sky Safai, Sky Guide, or some other similar product will assist me in finding sky objects. Any specific feedback on those priducts?

Understand that SkySafari and Sky Guide are planetarium software that work as a realtime map of the sky and also allow you to use your phone's accelerometer so that the map of they sky on the phone overlays the stars locations in the sky as you hold your phone up against the sky. With those apps on their own, you'll ultimately be star hopping manually through a finder scope and then your eyepiece to actually bring your target objects within view of your eyepiece. A push to telescope or a go to telescope electronically monitors the actual postion that your telescope is pointing with electronic feedback as to where you should push to or the telescope should automatically go to with motors in order bring your target object into view. Also, a go to telescope (not push to) will also continue to track the target object with motors and keep it in view as it "moves" across the night sky.

 

The NexStar SCT Go To telescope is the most automated and portable among your choices, but realistically you will quickly exceed your $1,500 budget. By the time you get a couple of worthy eyepieces, a filter for Nebulae, a dew shield (I consider this to be an SCT must have), a power supply, and a chair. If bought new, you'll be near $2,000. If you're okay with that, the Nexstar 8 SE is a great choice. 

 

I saw a nice package deal for $1,611 that includes in addition to the standard accessories, a couple of filters, a power tank (battery), A/C to D/C Power Supply, and a wi-fi adapter. You'll still want to add a couple decent eyepies, a dew shield, and a chair. The wi-fi adapter allows you to control the telescope with your phone's wifi or a wifi tablet. I'm sure some people's brains will explode at the thought of using a phone or tablet screen to locate objects to observe through your telescope eyepiece. Later model smart phones have OLED screens with no backlight and SkySafari in night mode has minimal impact on night vision. Unless you are observing in a remote wilderness, the screen typically doesn't have to be any brighter than your surroundings. I've seen many experienced observers look at SkySafari during their observing sessions without issue. 

 

I don't have the burden of being familiar with longstanding observing technology. I started with a Celestron Evolution (a pricier version of the SE with a more durable mount, built in litium ion power, and built in wifi. It came with a relatively unintuitive hand control. I used it once, with success, the first time I used the scope to make sure that much was operable. I then set aside the hand control and attempted telescope control through the smart phone app and wifi. I never went back to the hand control. I found no reason. An SE with a battery pack, and wifi dongle will function similarly.

[rajilina]

Wow, what great feedback in  short period of time. Thank you so much. I am trending toward the Apertura AD8 but only if I am convinced that Sky Safai, Sky Guide, or some other similar product will assist me in finding sky objects. Any specific feedback on those priducts?

I can totally recommend Sky Safari. I love it so much that I’ve purchased the top level paid version. It offers live sky views so just by moving your phone/ipad around the sky it will tell you exactly what you’re looking at; by clicking on the object you’re viewing it will pop up with all kinds of information on that object, gives recommendations of what’s best to look at during the specific time and date you’re observing, has a logging function so you can keep records of what you’ve observed, and it can also control your go-to mount if you want it to do that—and those are just the main features, there’s many more things it does. I use this program all the time at star parties and in my private observing and consider it an essential piece of my equipment. 

[SeattleScott]

If you get the Starsense Dob, you can use SkySafari as the interface for pointing the scope. If you get the Nexstar 8SE, you would need to add a WiFi dongle to control the scope with SkySafari.

[dnrmilspec]

I am going to put in another vote for the SCT.  I have a dob.  12.5" truss tube and I love it.  Some big and little refractors.  Check.  An 8" and 9.25" SCT.  10" nobody has ever hear of.  Got those too.   And for what you describe the 8SE is just what the doctor ordered. 

 

When I was doing paid star parties we used 8" goto SCTs.  The people enjoyed the views and the scopes could not be easier to use.  I can't stress enough how easy it is to find a couple of stars to use to align the SCT.  It will take you a very few minutes with a free cell phone app and you will have it.  Seriously.  When you walk outside now and look at the sky it seems confusing but you will very quickly (minutes) find your alignment stars and won't forget them..

 

The whole point of a telescope is to observe and appreciate the night sky. That sorta means that you are going to enjoy learning the names of some of the stars and other stuff.  But just learning a few to align your scope is absurdly easy.  Let me illustrate.

 

Imagine you are  standing in my front with me right now having just bought your Nexstar 8 SE.  I am going to show you how to align it well enough to get you going.  Here is how easy it is.  

 

I am going to point you to the southeast of my yard fairly low in the sky and show you Scorpio.  It is a very easy constellation to see.  Quite obvious.  Then I am going to show you a star in the tail of the scorpion that is very bright and almost red.  And now you know your first star.  Antares. (And your first variable as well.)    Then I am going to ask you if you know the big dipper.  I'll bet you do.  I will show you the second star in the handle of the dipper and now you know your second star.  Mizar.  Using those two to align your goto will do well enough for you to find stuff.  (PLEASE others.  Don't quibble at this point.  These two stars will get him up and running.  We will shoot for perfect next year.)  I will tell you than when you get to Mizar you will see it is a double star which is a good check.  (And now you know your first double star.) 

 

As you begin your year long tour of the universe you will learn more stars.  You will learn to "arc to Arcturis and Speed to Spica."  You will know Betelgeuse at a glance.   As the winter comes on you will see the sixth brightest star in the sky Capella.  (Your second double....well quadruple but lets not be pedantic.) And it will be a good alignment star.  

 

You get my point.  While just walking out in the yard and staring at the sky the task of identifying stars seems daunting but for the purpose of aligning your 8SE, the task is pretty easy.  I have a star sense and it is a cool piece of kit but frankly I just don't use it much.  I snag a couple of stars and away we go.   

 

Dobs are great and are most frequently recommended first scopes.  The thing is that you and I are no spring chickens.  The SCT is quick to set up and very light to carry around.  The battery stuff is a non-issue.  As others have said, a cheap power tank will keep you going for a long time.  Or just get a couple of sets of rechargeables.  Your SCT will rarely require collimation, as Don said, and it is really easy to do when required.  The F10 scope is a bit narrow but a real planet killer. You can add a reducer when you feel ready and get it wider.  Your viewing position is usually pretty comfortable with an SCT as well which is easier on old bones.  

 

So My vote is for the SCT.  It is a great first scope and will teach you a lot with a minimum of frustration.  It may be the only scope you feel you ever need to own.  If I had to choose only one of my scopes to keep it would be the 9.25" SCT.  (Or maybe an 11)  

 

When we first start things can seem pretty confusing but you are on the right track coming here for advice.  Whatever scope you eventually choose, I hope you will share your journey with us.  Your enthusiasm recharges our batteries.  And we will learn from you as you remind us what it was that got us captured by this great hobby.  

[rrpallechio]

Check out Ed Ting's YouTube channel for a review of a Celestron DOB with Starsense Explorer. 

 

https://www.youtube....h?v=Mfr9dQM3ZBU

 

 

My grandson is about to turn 12. When he was 8, one December night in my backyard, I pointed to a light in the sky and said, "That's Saturn." He replied, "No, grandpa, that's Jupiter." We argued. He was right. So I dug out my Questar 3.5" that I hadn't used in years and showed it to him and he is intrigued.

 

Fast forward to the present, and he and my wife are my observing buddies. He likes to look through the telescope. The one we use most often for visual is the 8" SCT you'll see in my signature.

 

I'm 72 and weight makes a difference to me. I wouldn't want to go any bigger than my 8". I observe mostly in my backyard. Trees block some of the view, as does my neighbor's house, but we can see enough to keep us all interested.

Push to vs GoTo vs totally manual comes down to personal preference. I use Go To telescopes as I prefer to look at objects rather than search for them. Others prefer the hunt. If looking rather than hunting is what you want, then go with either a fully automated setup or a Push To.

[rfcooley]

Rgood57

 

At 51 I did not worry about trans portability much. I was using one of my 2 Coulter 10.1 dobs regularly along with a couple of C8s on an ADVGT mount.  The Coulter's think big heavy, about 65 Lbs+. A C11 on a Losmandy G11 while the weights were about the same but the Losmandy broke into smaller pieces with the RA Ext making it easier to handle. I had plenty of options as far has telescopes went.

 

At 54 I survived a widow maker heart attack. It took almost a year of physical therapy before I was able to lift 50 Lbs safely. A couple more small heart attacks.  At 58 went in for a nuclear stress test and was told I can't leave the hospital. My heart was about to implode. Open heart quad triple by pass surgery was my only chance to add some years to my life. And needs to be done right now. Waiting to make a decision could be fatal.  My GP doctor looked at the results of the test and said their not kidding, Cardiologist said the same thing the fact I am still walking around is a miracle. The surgery was done. Another year of physical therapy. Which all my doctors said you can't lift heavy objects. I owned an Automotive repair shop and they said I would have to hire more mechanics because I will not be able to do the kind of  physical work I had been doing for the last 38 years or so.

 

Long story short I would not be able to set up my big telescopes without some help.  I had the help from many of the club members who would lift and help me set up my heavy stuff. It was clear that I would have to downsize. I had C8s and my ADVGT and that would be about my limit for size and weight of physically moving and setting up on my own. The shop was sold and more physical therapy to help strengthen so that I could continue with my hobby. The need to observe. I was to avoid stress, learn to say No. When I felt tired take a nap. You may have no idea how hard this was and on the other hand, if you do, you also know how difficult if is.  My C8s and my ADVGT were what I used for the next couple years.  My observing was my stress relief, my decompression time in which the doctors said was really important to increase my longevity here on this rock. In order to continue my hobby. I would have to take downsizing seriously.  I bought various lighter mounts and lighter OTAs. Some small refractors. Some small MAKS and 5 and 6 inch SCTs. I continued using my C8s they were my favorite and most versatile. For grab and go my AT72EDii refractor or my C5 SCT on a AZ-GTi mount became my most used after my C8s.

 

Today, at 69 fully retired, I can use my larger equipment. I can lift and mount my C11 and my Losmandy G11 with a little careful effort. My Dobs I enjoy using on occasions, even my 12". Again with a little careful effort. However, when I bring my big stuff to star parties I get a lot of help from the club members. Another reason to join a local club.  My Dobs I built platforms with 4" wheel to roll them about and lock them in place. My grab and go's are very easy to deploy within a couple of minutes. My C8s still remain my favorite. Put a .63 reducer on it with a 2" long focal length ep and I have a decent wide field view. Not has good as my Dobs and refractors are capable of but good enough for what I mostly do. I recently purchased an AM5n. Not only is it light it has the capacity to handle all of my OTAs and transports all on a hand truck.

 

 

Bottom case C8 XLT.  The middle case is all accessories I might need. Top milk crate AM5N. Binoculars, lap top, tablet and eyepiece case. The tripod is modified AVX with extension for the AM5N capable of handling my fully loaded C11.  The tripod attaches to the top of the hand truck with green bungee. Easy to transport, quick setup and tear down and lifted into my van, SUV or 4WD truck all weighing less than 40 Lbs. If I need to the hand cart breaks down into 3 pieces and fits in the trunk of the wife's KIA Spectra which is about the same size as a Toyota Corolla. 

 

Needless to say I'd go with the C8 on a goto mount. Versatility, trans portability, low maintenance and quick set up and tear down and more time to enjoy the skies. What more could you ask for?

 

Only dumb question is the one you didn't ask.

 

Clear Skies, Never Lose the Wonder

 

RF

 

[maniack]

Are you asking about the Star Sense Explorer technology?  The one where it uses a cell phone and doc?

 

As noted, i purchased my SSE unit used to save money, and test the technology.   If you go this route, there is a download code that can only be used 5x times.  Make sure there are still codes left.  There is evidence that if you call celestron they will give yoiu more codes.  You have to prove you own the scope, and I don't know what are the requirements.  Reciepts, picture, retail box???

I bought a used system from eBay that did not come with a code, and Celestron support sent me one without asking for any proof (I was honest and said I bought it used).

 

Now for how well it works - pretty well overall, but there is some frustration where it doesn't want to plate solve even when pointed at a clear portion of the sky. It's faster overall to get up and running compared to a Nexstar GoTo mount, but it also requires frequent plate solving to keep you on target. So far in my experience it's not as accurate at getting the object in the field of view compared to the Nexstar GoTo options, so it works better for low-magnification use.

 

I would certainly get the StarSense Explorer dobsonian over a regular dobsonian. But over large aperture use I prefer the Nexstar SCT systems - not only do you get GoTo but the tracking of objects is immensely useful. They 8SE is also lighter and breaks down into smaller pieces.

 

 

The GoTo NexStar systems work well, but they need at the least batteries or a power pack. Celestron sells a smallish powerpack with enough reserves to run my NexStar SLT 127 mm Mak all night long. https://www.celestro...wertank-lithium

 

If you decide on NextStar, your mount must be scrupulously level.  To seconds of arc.  The reason is that the altazimuth version will slew off, at an angle, and it will dip or rise enough that what you're slewing to will be just outside of the field of view.

A simple TalentCell 6000mah battery for ~$30 on Amazon works well and lasts a long time on the SE mount.

 

As for needing to be very level, that has not been my experience with the Nexstar mounts I've used (GT, SLT, multiple SE units, and Evolution). Being reasonably level has been good enough for my use. Then again I use a zoom eyepiece (highly recommended for SCTs) so I am able to get a wider view without having to swap eyepieces.

 

 

A Celestron 8SE with the SkyPortal WiFi module is 1600usd at B&H, at HighPoint the standard 8SE is 1700usd.

 

A StarSense AutoAlign is 439usd, if one wished to go that route.

Adorama has a used unit for just over $1000, Amazon has them in Very Good condition (and easily returnable) for under $1200. Skip the WiFi and the AutoAlign (for now). I have both, and ended up never using the WiFi since the hand controller with actual buttons is easier to move around and I don't have to rely on my phone screen. The AutoAlign is convenient and I do use it, but the alignment takes longer (the advantages are that it tends to be more accurate and you can do something else while it solves the alignment). In any case used ones can be had for $250 or less.

[maniack]

The Celestron NEXSTAR system is very easy to use but it may require you to learn the names of some bright stars.

It actually has a SkyAlign procedure that has you pointing at 3 bright objects and automatically calculates what objects they are and the alignment (I believe it only uses 2 of them for alignment, so it's not any more accurate than the 2 star alignment options). So you don't even have to know the names of any stars (or planets!).

[dmgriff]

If the OP goes with a dob, the Pi Finder can wifi connect to a phone/tablet running SkySafari. 

 

I found this YouTube video of basic Pi Finder use. It starts about 8 minutes in, you can scroll back to the start.

https://www.youtube....poiTyfmc&t=479s

 

If the OP goes with a NexStar 8SE, he may consider the more stable Evolution 8 (Updated SE, and eventually should replace it I beleive). NexStar manual hand controller alignment, also built in SkyPortal WiFi to connect to SkyPortal app or SkySafari with Phone/Tablet. Built in Lithium battery, and supports external power. The NexStar Evolution 8 is 2200usd at B&H . The StarSense AutoAlign also attaches for plate solving.

 

I have a EVO mount and it is easy to setup and take down. Has the "three bright star" align option with the hand set. Solar System align for lunar/planetary with the hand controller, or Two Star with the controller or SkyPortal. I have a 11 inch Samsung Galaxy A9+ tablet to connect with SkyPortal. The 2 star align requires a first known star align, then the mount auto slews to a second star to center and align if I am remembering correctly.

Edited by dmgriff, 16 June 2025 - 04:11 AM.

[JOEinCO]

Many points both ways on the choices, but my vote goes strongly to the 8SE. And it's not because of the GoTo.

 

No one has mentioned (that I saw, sorry if I missed it) that a key difference between a Dob with Sky Safari/Sky Guide/etc, and the 8SE, is Tracking.

 

Having a scope stay on target while you observe, sketch, share the view, go inside for a bathroom break or coffee break, whatever, is a very useful feature. Even when you are manually starhopping with the hand control, it is really nice that stars don't drift while you're trying to relate the eyepiece view to your chart.

 

Tracking is also very nice when observing at higher magnifications as the scope stays on Jupiter/Moon/etc at 250X so you can scrutinize the details as you wait for those moments of steadiness. 

 

I have a lot of scopes. Too many (but I love the observing and the equipment of astronomy). But one of my favorites is my SE mount with my C6 or an 80mm APO mounted.

[rajilina]

 

Dobs are great and are most frequently recommended first scopes.  The thing is that you and I are no spring chickens.  The SCT is quick to set up and very light to carry around.  The battery stuff is a non-issue.  As others have said, a cheap power tank will keep you going for a long time.  Or just get a couple of sets of rechargeables.  Your SCT will rarely require collimation, as Don said, and it is really easy to do when required.  The F10 scope is a bit narrow but a real planet killer. You can add a reducer when you feel ready and get it wider.  Your viewing position is usually pretty comfortable with an SCT as well which is easier on old bones.  

 

So My vote is for the SCT.  It is a great first scope and will teach you a lot with a minimum of frustration.  It may be the only scope you feel you ever need to own.  If I had to choose only one of my scopes to keep it would be the 9.25" SCT.  (Or maybe an 11)  

 

When we first start things can seem pretty confusing but you are on the right track coming here for advice.  Whatever scope you eventually choose, I hope you will share your journey with us.  Your enthusiasm recharges our batteries.  And we will learn from you as you remind us what it was that got us captured by this great hobby.  

I’d totally agree with this. I think Dobs are great as well and if you were younger, I’d probably recommend it over an SCT. But they can be very hard to manage and seem much heavier the older we get. It’s the reason I didn’t get one and got an SCT instead, and I was much younger than you when I made that decision. But I wanted something that would stay with me long term and I just couldn’t see handling a Dob at an advanced age. The scope is no good if you’re not going to use it.

 

My SCT is my favorite and most-used scope (although my modular solar scope is taking over just due to the fact I can use it 24/7). I’ve got a good quality 8” Edge HD and it’s more than enough to really show off most things I want to look at. And it breaks down into easily-manageable pieces: tripod, mount, OTA, powerbank/small accessories, all of which I can easily handle on my own.

[somebodywhoateapie]

Wow, what great feedback in  short period of time. Thank you so much. I am trending toward the Apertura AD8 but only if I am convinced that Sky Safai, Sky Guide, or some other similar product will assist me in finding sky objects. Any specific feedback on those priducts?

I recommend stellarium plus, it sounds like exactly what you're looking for. It allows you to project your telescope's field of view onto the screen, which removes almost all of the guesswork when star hopping because you know your exact field of view, and thus how far to jump when going from star to star. It also allows you to flip and invert the screen to match the view through a newtonian, taking that roadblock out as well. You also don't need to align anything, since it's entirely contained within your phone, and it keeps the fun of star hopping since you're still finding the object manually, instead of just jumping to an object with no context. For just $20, it's a whole lot cheaper than the alternatives, too.

 

I also strongly recommend the dob. More capable, easier to setup and use, certainly much cheaper, and probably about on par in portability with an sct at least.

[Starman1]

I recommend stellarium plus, it sounds like exactly what you're looking for. It allows you to project your telescope's field of view onto the screen, which removes almost all of the guesswork when star hopping because you know your exact field of view, and thus how far to jump when going from star to star. It also allows you to flip and invert the screen to match the view through a newtonian, taking that roadblock out as well. You also don't need to align anything, since it's entirely contained within your phone, and it keeps the fun of star hopping since you're still finding the object manually, instead of just jumping to an object with no context. For just $20, it's a whole lot cheaper than the alternatives, too.

 

I also strongly recommend the dob. More capable, easier to setup and use, certainly much cheaper, and probably about on par in portability with an sct at least.

Easy to move to the yard with just a small portable hand-truck, but takes up 3x the room in a car.

 

Beginners have 2 problems:

--I can't see anything

--I can't find anything

 

The first can be overcome with the right choice of object and by transport to darker skies and by experience.

The second can be overcome with GoTo or PushTo.

If sharing the view, GoTo is better because the scope tracks.

If not sharing the view, Push-To is fine as well.

 

The issue with a stock dob is finding objects.  I always tell beginners to use a star atlas AFTER learning the constellations to find objects that are near naked eye stars.

After that, finding objects that are fairly close to naked eye stars.  Then, learning star hopping techniques.

 

I don't think the learning curve necessary for a dob will benefit someone starting at age 75.  Go-To will allow the observing of a lot more objects in the first year.

In the 11 years of owning a 6", I put 3500 objects in my observing log by star hopping.  Then I got an 8" Go-To scope and added 5800 more in the next 11 years.

The point is that a lot more objects become easy to find when you have Go-To.  Want to see where they are in the sky?  Look through the finder after it's in the field of view.

[billywjackson]

Many points both ways on the choices, but my vote goes strongly to the 8SE. And it's not because of the GoTo.

No one has mentioned (that I saw, sorry if I missed it) that a key difference between a Dob with Sky Safari/Sky Guide/etc, and the 8SE, is Tracking.

Having a scope stay on target while you observe, sketch, share the view, go inside for a bathroom break or coffee break, whatever, is a very useful feature. Even when you are manually starhopping with the hand control, it is really nice that stars don't drift while you're trying to relate the eyepiece view to your chart.

Tracking is also very nice when observing at higher magnifications as the scope stays on Jupiter/Moon/etc at 250X so you can scrutinize the details as you wait for those moments of steadiness.

I have a lot of scopes. Too many (but I love the observing and the equipment of astronomy). But one of my favorites is my SE mount with my C6 or an 80mm APO mounted.

What he said!
I was 70 when I was able to get serious about astronomy. Tracking was just about my biggest criteria. I didn't really care about goto. I bought an 8SE, and have been very happy with it. The goto has proven a lot more useful than I envisioned. If I had the budget, I might have gone with the Evolution, but the tracking and goto features would still be primary reasons.

Have fun!

[SeattleScott]

I recommend stellarium plus, it sounds like exactly what you're looking for. It allows you to project your telescope's field of view onto the screen, which removes almost all of the guesswork when star hopping because you know your exact field of view, and thus how far to jump when going from star to star. It also allows you to flip and invert the screen to match the view through a newtonian, taking that roadblock out as well. You also don't need to align anything, since it's entirely contained within your phone, and it keeps the fun of star hopping since you're still finding the object manually, instead of just jumping to an object with no context. For just $20, it's a whole lot cheaper than the alternatives, too.

I also strongly recommend the dob. More capable, easier to setup and use, certainly much cheaper, and probably about on par in portability with an sct at least.

The key is you need some interface between Stellarium and the telescope. If you buy a Starsense Dob, Starsense can use Stellarium or whatever as the interface. If you buy the Nexstar, then you either need to connect a computer to the scope (which means hauling out a table for the computer and a chair to sit at the table), or you need a WiFi dongle to connect a phone or tablet.

As for portability, the Nexstar 8SE weighs 30 lbs and an 8” Dob usually weighs around 50. The tube on the SCT is also much shorter and less bulky. I consider an 8” Dob about equally capable as an 8” SCT, although the lower price of a Dob might allow for a larger aperture. I would consider a Starsense Explorer Dob more user friendly than a Nexstar without Starsense Auto Align, although the Nexstar would track and the Dob won’t.

Edited by SeattleScott, 16 June 2025 - 12:31 PM.

[maniack]

Beginners have 2 problems:

--I can't see anything

--I can't find anything

 

The first can be overcome with the right choice of object and by transport to darker skies and by experience.

The second can be overcome with GoTo or PushTo.

If sharing the view, GoTo is better because the scope tracks.

If not sharing the view, Push-To is fine as well.

This is spot on. GoTo shines even more when sharing the view with family members and friends. Even with PushTo most folks you are sharing the scope will have trouble figuring out which direction to push the scope.

Even as a non-beginner GoTo lets me observe many more objects in one session, and the tracking allows me to tease out fainter objects with averted vision or to pick out finer planetary details in variable seeing - concentrating on the observation rather than moving the scope around. In light polluted skies star hopping is more difficult anyway, and GoTo has been a huge help in my suburban conditions.

 

As for portability, the Nexstar 8SE weighs 30 lbs and an 8” Dob usually weighs around 50. The tube on the SCT is also much shorter and less bulky. I consider an 8” Dob about equally capable as an 8” SCT, although the lower price of a Dob might allow for a larger aperture. I would consider a Starsense Explorer Dob more user friendly than a Nexstar without Starsense Auto Align, although the Nexstar would track and the Dob won’t.

The Nexstar SCTs are kings of portability in my opinion. The one knock on the 8SE is that it's not the most steady platform because the large tube is taxing the mount head. The Evolution 8 is a lot more stable, but on a budget the 6SE is also a fine choice. But I did use the 8SE system as is for a couple of years before upgrading to the Evolution mount head.

 

As for StarSense Explorer vs the base Nexstar, I'd agree that the StartSense Explorer is more beginner friendly. Once you get used to the Nexstar alignment procedures and the menus for punching in objects the Nexstar is pretty easy to use. Yes you need to refer to your star atlas (the SkySafari Plus app is my preferred choice) and put the object into the hand controller. Or get the WiFi unit and then use the app directly (but like I said I prefer the physical controller).

[somebodywhoateapie]

The key is you need some interface between Stellarium and the telescope. If you buy a Starsense Dob, Starsense can use Stellarium or whatever as the interface. If you buy the Nexstar, then you either need to connect a computer to the scope (which means hauling out a table for the computer and a chair to sit at the table), or you need a WiFi dongle to connect a phone or tablet.

As for portability, the Nexstar 8SE weighs 30 lbs and an 8” Dob usually weighs around 50. The tube on the SCT is also much shorter and less bulky. I consider an 8” Dob about equally capable as an 8” SCT, although the lower price of a Dob might allow for a larger aperture. I would consider a Starsense Explorer Dob more user friendly than a Nexstar without Starsense Auto Align, although the Nexstar would track and the Dob won’t.

Well, the whole point of stellarium plus is that you don't need an interface to make it work, it can be used handheld. No need to align anything, no need to get a separate holder.

I consider the tube and base to be essentially opposites in portability between dobs and scts, as the tube of a dob is annoying but the base light and easy to move, while the sct tube's compactness is compensated for by the large and bulky tripod, so that in the end, it doesn't really win. Plus, the corrector plate at the front makes scts a bit more fragile than dobs.

Scts being so slow certainly makes them less capable in my book, since it just limits deep sky capability for no particular benefit. For those who care, they also have obstructions well into the 30% range.

[Notdarkenough]

Well, the whole point of stellarium plus is that you don't need an interface to make it work, it can be used handheld. No need to align anything, no need to get a separate holder.

I consider the tube and base to be essentially opposites in portability between dobs and scts, as the tube of a dob is annoying but the base light and easy to move, while the sct tube's compactness is compensated for by the large and bulky tripod, so that in the end, it doesn't really win. Plus, the corrector plate at the front makes scts a bit more fragile than dobs.

Scts being so slow certainly makes them less capable in my book, since it just limits deep sky capability for no particular benefit. For those who care, they also have obstructions well into the 30% range.

Nothing here helps the OP. Let's keep the Dob vs SCT fanboy-tripe out of a simple request by a newcomer.

[maniack]

I consider the tube and base to be essentially opposites in portability between dobs and scts, as the tube of a dob is annoying but the base light and easy to move, while the sct tube's compactness is compensated for by the large and bulky tripod, so that in the end, it doesn't really win. Plus, the corrector plate at the front makes scts a bit more fragile than dobs.

Scts being so slow certainly makes them less capable in my book, since it just limits deep sky capability for no particular benefit. For those who care, they also have obstructions well into the 30% range.

Did you not see the posts above about the weight of the 8SE system? The whole kit is just over 30 lbs and it includes GoTo and tracking. The Celestron StarSense Explorer 8" dobsonian is almost 10 pounds heavier, and it's on the lighter side compared to other 8" dob options (the Apertura AD8 is 20 lbs heavier than the 8SE). The SE tripod is only 9 pounds, the mount head another 11. Even together that's less than the base of an 8" dob (~23 lbs or more). And while the corrector is a piece of glass at the front it isn't all that fragile unless you drop the thing. I'm not sure the 8" dob tube would fare well in such a scenario. The SCT tube doesn't need its own seat in the car when transporting either.

 

If you want an apples to apples comparison on weight you'd have to compare the SCT system to a GoTo dobsonian. The only avaiable option I'm aware of is the Sky-Watcher Flextube 200P, which is not cheaper than an 8SE and weighs close to 60 lbs.

 

Yes you give up some capability - wide field views. But there aren't a lot of objects where this is a problem. Plenty of people observe with large dobsonians that have a similar constrained field of view (a 16" f/5 dob has a max field of view of ~1.4 degrees, compared to ~1.3 in the 8" SCT).

[dnrmilspec]

To clarify something that was said.  The 8SE's database includes 40,000 objects.  One can program up to 200 user defined items but I do not know anyone who ever has.  40,000 would keep me pretty busy.

 

Then also to clarify.  The F-ratio of a telescope does not affect visual use.  It only really matters when using the scope for photography.  I don't want to get into the weeds with a new user and send him down the rabbit hole of exit pupil and coma.  And seriously.  Do we really want to have him considering central obstruction in his first and (he says) only telescope.  I am not going to get my wish though I fear.  

 

I too would rather we not let this devolve into a Dob versus SCT versus Refractor debate among long time users.  Either a Dob or an SCT will do just fine.  What we who are advocating for the SCT are discussing is the convenience of a particular scope for a casual user.  GOTO with tracking, easy to move components and low maintenance are the crux of the recommendation.

[somebodywhoateapie]

Then also to clarify.  The F-ratio of a telescope does not affect visual use.  It only really matters when using the scope for photography.  I don't want to get into the weeds with a new user and send him down the rabbit hole of exit pupil and coma.  And seriously.  Do we really want to have him considering central obstruction in his first and (he says) only telescope.  I am not going to get my wish though I fear.  

That's why I kept the comments on both vague and off to the side. I'm not seriously trying to bring them in either, especially with central obstruction, it's a note for those who care and a non-issue for those who don't, of which I'm in the latter group anyway. I didn't even intend for it to be brought up again at all.

 

I'm advocating a dobsonian because I think it fits best for what they want, same as why an sct would be recommended. They've expressed only modest interest in goto and didn't seem concerned about fitting the scope in the car, the exact weight of the thing, or any minor maintenance or learning curve. What they did want was something on the cheaper side, and they seemed interested in the phone apps, which is what I tried to supply information about originally. For what we know they want for certain, and not just what they might or might not want, a dobsonian seems to fit the bill well. 

[SeattleScott]

Yes, Stellarium can be used handheld. But that isn’t going to help a lot in locating objects. Yeah you can see what part of the sky something is in, but it isn’t going to put a target in the FOV of a 32mm Plossl unless you have some interface with the telescope, or at least print setting circles and use a digital level.

[somebodywhoateapie]

Yes, Stellarium can be used handheld. But that isn’t going to help a lot in locating objects. Yeah you can see what part of the sky something is in, but it isn’t going to put a target in the FOV of a 32mm Plossl unless you have some interface with the telescope, or at least print setting circles and use a digital level.

The point isn't to use it as a traditional push-to, snapping onto the target immediately, it's supposed to be more like an extra manual push-to. It tells you how big certain star patterns will look in your field of view, how far you have to move to jump from one asterism to the next, and how the object will be framed. That way you can use it to handhold you through each jump from star to star with minimal guesswork, while also still get the fun of star hopping. It's really nice, well worth the $20 I paid. Since they're interested in the phone apps, I'm assuming extra manual push-to is essentially what they're looking for, unless they mean more a recreation of starsense, which is also quite possible.

Edited by somebodywhoateapie, 16 June 2025 - 08:58 PM.

[Starman1]

Note:

--the OP has only posted twice.

--he said he will have to drive to observe, favoring portability.

--he has not indicated an interest in computer programs unless they aid in the finding of objects.

 

So, though computer programs like Stellarium and Sky Safari can be linked to a scope, they are not superior to

having all that info be inside the scope, where finding objects is concerned.  And, since I've used both, I can say they are not better than using the internal operating program of a GoTo scope,

though Sky Safari has a lot of information on board. 

 

And using them to locate star patterns in fields is merely using them as an electronic version of a printed atlas.  You might as well have the printed atlas, which is easier to read numbers on than a tablet program.

 

In so many ways, the GoTo 8SE wins this argument.

[somebodywhoateapie]

Note:

--the OP has only posted twice.

--he said he will have to drive to observe, favoring portability.

--he has not indicated an interest in computer programs unless they aid in the finding of objects.

 

So, though computer programs like Stellarium and Sky Safari can be linked to a scope, they are not superior to

having all that info be inside the scope, where finding objects is concerned.  And, since I've used both, I can say they are not better than using the internal operating program of a GoTo scope,

though Sky Safari has a lot of information on board. 

 

And using them to locate star patterns in fields is merely using them as an electronic version of a printed atlas.  You might as well have the printed atlas, which is easier to read numbers on than a tablet program.

 

In so many ways, the GoTo 8SE wins this argument.

I'm not saying a phone app is outright better than goto, of course it's not, I'm presenting it as a manual, near-paper-chart alternative...