Basic Information about the NexStar SE Series
| In June of 2005, Celestron
announced a new line of computerized
scopes - the NexStar SE. Utilizing the latest upgradeable NexStar hand control, the
NexStar SE series is quite similar to the NexStar i Series and replaces it in the model lineup.
The NexStar SE is offered in 4 inch Maksutov and 5, 6 and 8 inch Schmidt
Cassegrain models. Introductory prices range from $599 for the NexStar
4SE up to $1399 for a NexStar 8SE. There
are actually two distinct mounts in this series, the 6SE and
8SE share one type of mount and the 4SE and 5SE
share another type. The 6/8 mount is basically the same as
the original NexStar 5i/8i mount while the 4/5 mount is an upgraded
version of the NexStar 4GT mount. Note that though the 4/5SE
utilize gearing and motors similar to the GT models (and the current SLT
series), tracking is greatly improved over the 4GT mount and is on par
with other NexStar models at the mid to lower price range. |
NexStar 5SE
|
Perhaps the most exciting change to these mounts is the new method
for attaching the optical tube to the fork arm. All four models
use a standard CG-5/Vixen dovetail clamp to mate the optical tube to the
mount. This allows the optical tube to be removed for more compact
transportation or even to switch optical tubes. It also allows for
balancing and clearance when using heavier accessories. Additional
features:
- All models come standard with Celestron's StarBright XLT coatings.
- All models come with a steel tripod - the 4/5SE come with the
model 93497 "wedgepod" (tripod with simple built-in wedge) while the 6/8SE
come with the model 93593 tripod.
- The 4/5SE include a unique camera port for connecting a digital
SLR camera. This allows the NexStar hand control to execute a series of
timed exposures of desired objects. You simply build the list, specify
the length of each exposure and the scope will GoTo each object in turn,
capturing the image on your camera.
- The 6/8SE mount includes an autoguider port, though the 4/5SE
does not.
- All models have an AUX port compatible with the CN-16 GPS module and the
Auxiliary Port Accessory Kit. The Aux Port Kit allows, among other
things, the motor control firmware to be upgraded by the user.
- NexRemote is included with all models.
- All models support equatorial alignment and tracking.
The new hand control
sports the latest version of the NexStar firmware. This includes
features such as Identify and Constellation Tour. This hand control responds to the same PC commands (via
the RS-232 port on the bottom) as the NexStar 8/9.25/11 GPS, so programs
compatible with the NexStar GPS are compatible with the NexStar SE.
Future upgrades to the hand control firmware will be available for download
via the Internet and owners can apply the upgrades themselves.
Additional information is found on Celestron's web site -
www.celestron.com.
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