NexStar User's Guide - NexStar 130 GT

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NexStar 130 GT

In the fall of 2003, Celestron introduced a new NexStar GT model sporting a 130mm Newtonian reflector optical tube. This new model is now the largest aperture available in the GT line. The general description of GT mount as found in The NexStar User's Guide applies equally to this scope.

The added aperture will provide higher resolution views of the planets and moon as well as additional detail on brighter deep sky objects, particularly the brightest star clusters and nebula. A well-collimated NexStar 130 combined with a good set of Plossl

NexStar 130 GT at a Glance

Optical System: Newtonian Reflector
Approximate Street Price: $360 (includes tripod)
Aperture: 5 inches (130mm)
Focal Length: 650mm
Focal Ratio: f/5
Supplied Eyepieces: 10mm SMA (65x)
25mm SMA (26x)
Maximum Magnification: 260x
Maximum Field of View: 2.7°
Magnitude Limit: 12.3
Resolution Limit: 1.1 arcsecond
Finder: 1x power red-dot
Objects in HC Database: 4,033
Weight (includes tripod): 18 lbs. (8.2 kg)

eyepieces will bring out detail in the bands of Jupiter and display the Cassini Division in the rings of Saturn. The endless craters of the Moon will provide hours of enjoyment with the incredible detail this scope can display.

Double stars and star clusters will provide wonderful pinpoint images free from false color. The wide-field views afforded by the short focal length make open clusters especially pleasing in the NexStar 130. Under dark skies the added light gathering power will show contours of gas and dust in nebula such as the Orion (M42) and Lagoon Nebula (M8). The showcase galaxies such as Andromeda (M31) and the Whirlpool (M51) will reveal their spiral arms under the best of seeing conditions.

Collimation is easier with the NexStar 130 than the NexStar 114 since the 130 does not use a corrector lens in the focuser and the primary mirror already has a center spot applied at the factory. In all, the NexStar 130 is a great addition to the GT line.


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