Celestron NexStar 90 SLT Maksutov Computerized Telescope

Discover the night sky with the Celestron NexStar 90SLT, a versatile computerized telescope that combines high-quality optics, intuitive operation, and a sturdy single-fork-arm mount in a compact and convenient package. The NexStar SLT series has become a popular choice for observers looking for an easy-to-use telescope capable of delivering impressive views of both celestial and terrestrial subjects. At the heart of the NexStar 90SLT is a 90mm Maksutov-Cassegrain optical tube, providing sharp views of the Moon and planets while maintaining a compact form factor. Its computerized NexStar system makes locating celestial objects simple, while the SkyAlign alignment procedure allows you to get ready for observing within minutes. The telescope arrives with a pre-assembled adjustable stainless-steel tripod, quick-release fork arm, and NexStar+ computerized hand control, making setup straightforward. The complete system requires no tools to assemble, making it an excellent companion for spontaneous observing sessions, extended stargazing nights, or trips to darker skies. The 90SLT is capable of revealing a variety of fascinating celestial details, including features on the lunar surface, the phases of Venus, the polar caps of Mars, Jupiter and its four largest moons, and Saturn with its prominent rings. Its versatility extends beyond astronomy, as the telescope can also function as a land-based spotting scope for daytime viewing and wildlife observation.

Maksutov-Cassegrain Optical Design

The MAK is a catadioptric telescope, which means the optical design includes both a lens and a mirror. The light coming through a MAK passes through the corrector lens to the primary mirror and back to a spherical secondary mirror before it hits the eyepiece. Images are bright, sharp, and virtually free of chromatic aberration.

The Maksutov-Cassegrain’s optical design offers several unique benefits. Instead of a secondary mirror, the MAK features a “secondary spot” of reflective coating applied directly to the inside of the corrector plate. Because of this, the telescope does not require occasional collimation like a Schmidt-Cassegrain. Also, the secondary spot is significantly smaller than a traditional Schmidt-Cassegrain secondary mirror, giving the MAK its signature high-contrast views. One important thing to note about Maksutov-Cassegrain telescopes is that the larger, heavier Maksutov corrector plate takes longer to cool down and adjust to ambient air temperature compared to a Schmidt-Cassegrain of the same aperture.

Features

• High quality 90mm Maksutov-Cassegrain
• Fully computerized Altazimuth mount
• StarPointer finderscope to help with alignment and accurately locating objects
• Quick-release fork arm mount, optical tube and accessory tray for quick no tool set up
• Sturdy stainless steel tripod and accessory tray included
• Perfect for terrestrial and celestial observing
• BONUS Starry Night Special Edition Astronomy Software download with a 36,000-object database, printable sky maps and enhanced images including 3D renderings of stars, exoplanets, and galaxies