But it needs collimation from time to time since the alignment gets messed up often. Any advice would help. The extra aperture is the main draw of the 130mm. Users of the Explorer have found it to be a very capable device and quite easy to set up. As for other key specifications, dx 102az has a focal ratio of 6.5. You can see a quick summary below, or read on for further detail: *This website makes money through affiliate commissions. For the 102 Ill need to likely buy a star diagonal, while for the 130 Ill need to buy a Cheshire or laser collimator so still a tie. These are still decent entry level specs and will allow beginner level astronomers to see the following celestial objects provided enough of the StarSenses power is used : The tube isnt too big coming in at around 81 cm whilst the tripod will allow the device to extend to 1.24 meters, which honestly isnt that great. Skies & Scopes 2023. Which is better than the image youll see from normal reflector optics. You need to consider where you will use it and store it. Apparently, they both go with dx 102az and 130 az. Youd have to either detach the phone and try not to move the telescope or use two separate phones. This mount is a little on the small side for either optical tube, but it works just fine. Required fields are marked *. Optically the telescope is well up to standard for a short-focus achromatic refractor and is well-suited to deep-sky observing. Thanks! Our Verdict: The Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 102 AZ telescope is a beginner's ultimate telescope. Also I dont speak for Celestron and to prove so I will say the eye pieces are complete trash and it should come with a collimating tool. -cam, Zane great review as always thanks. ), Why Is Jupiter Denser Than Saturn? Im very interested in the cosmos but being a chemistry student, I dont have much time to learn the precise location of Messier objects, how to find planets, and looking at the moon over and over gets boring (when you dont know what youre doing) comparing this to a Dob 8 in my opinion is like comparing a truck to sports car. Value $12.60. The optics are fitted into a closed tube. Same focal length. All Rights Reserved. I already have eye pieces. ), Deimos vs Europa (How Are They Different? I'm aware the reflector has a larger aperture (though the secondary mirror erodes this advantage a little?) The clutch that holds the telescope in altitude, on the test model anyway, is fierce, so to move it you need to grasp the tripod firmly with one hand and wrench the tube up or down with the other as per the instructions. In essence, what it does is take a snapshot of the sky and use computer algorithms and star maps to figure out where it is pointing. Celestron StarSense Explorer 8" Dobsonian, Celestron Starsense Explorer 10" Dobsonian, The lightest, most portable, and easiest to operate in the range, Generally the cheapest (although check prices). how do they compare? Overall, while it would not always be our first choice, the Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 102 is definitely one of my favorite beginner scopes in its price range. +91-120-406-2000. Get the StarSense Explorer; it has better accessories and is easier to use, Ive had my 130 for so long. As noted above, the 102 in the name refers to the telescope's aperture of 102mm (4-inch). This scope has taught me so much, I can travel with it on hikes, and Im impressed. Find local businesses, view maps and get driving directions in Google Maps. The 8-inch aperture is huge and will provide few limitations to what you can see. Many people have asked on astronomy forums and contacted Celestron themselves, asking why the bracket and code cannot be sold as a stand-alone item. The only shortcoming I guess you could say is its average specs and its Starsense technology being somewhat hit or miss however, from the research Ive done on it, the 102AZ is a device worth checking even if its a little more expensive than an equally powerful reflector system. The Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ is a 5.1" diameter reflecting telescope on an alt . The 130 is better but still pretty small for that price. On your phones screen, youll see the current position of your telescope. StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ vs 102AZ - posted in Celestron Computerized Telescopes: Hi all, Ive been following the StarSense Explorer main thread, which has a lot of great information and seems particularly targeted towards adapting the bracket/mirror towards other telescopes. So, there are issues of ghosting and internal reflection. This helps remove much of the frustration that can occur when starting with astronomy that it is too hard and takes too long to find things to look at. Celestron dx 130az has a focal ratio of f/5. Stargazing Help is a participant in Amazon Associates program. With all models, if the conditions are right you should be able to view the planets of the solar system and deep-sky objects like other galaxies. What these StarSense Explorer telescopes do is attach your smartphone then, using the app, scan the night sky above you, tell you what you can see on that particular night, and then guide you to it. The accessory tray is a nice, sturdy affair and an actual tray rather than the silly eyepiece rack supplied with many scopes. The StarSense Explorer DX 102 includes two 1.25" eyepieces: a 25mm "Super" Konig providing 26x and a 10mm Konig providing 65x. So, what is so special about the Celestron dx eyepieces? The red dot finderscope is decent as are all of the other accessories too. Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 102AZ Review (Worth Buying!?) This refers to the telescopes build and shape. Here's the full lineup of StarSense Explorer telescopes in order of price (low to high): StarSense Explorer LT 80AZ Refractor. if youre not butchering it for the StarSense hardware, thats what Id buy. He has made numerous TV appearances explaining astronomy news stories, and lectures aboard cruise ships. When the bullseye turns green, its ready to view in the telescopes eyepiece. Celestrons 1.25 prism is pretty good; a dielectric unit like Aperturas improves performance and wont scratch your eyepieces thanks to the equipped compression ring adapter. As for the weight, when fully assembled it comes in at a very portable 6.44kg so you or anyone thats even younger shouldnt have too much of a problem moving it around or even storing it, whether it be at the home or for whenever you decide to take it to an area with minimal light pollution. So, that really shortens out your options. These are very average specs and maybe even subpar when you consider reflector telescopes tend to offer a lot more bang for the buck nevertheless, the specs . Its StarSense technology links a smartphone to a telescope in a simple, yet robust fashion. On Aliexpress it costs around $418. Their knowledge of the subject, combined with features like a price match promise, free lifetime tech support, a 30-day return policy, and financing choices, makes them a great pick. This is the best measurement of a telescope's capacity to provide good views. Review: Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 102AZ In terms of magnification that's a significant step-up from the 'toy' telescopes that dominate . Visit our corporate site (opens in new tab). The device comes with 2 1.25 kellner eyepieces at 25mm and 10mm, a StarPointe red dot finderscope, a 90 degree erect image starpointer, a Manual Alt-Azimuth mount, a StarSense Explorer phone dock, a tripod and a bunch of other miscellaneous documents. The Celestron dx 102az telescope is not good for viewing faint objects. 6mm goldline and/or a 2x Barlow would be my first picks. This is more powerful than the models above and will provide better views. A 32mm Plossl will provide 20x, with a slightly wider true field than the included 25mm ocular, but is of debatable usefulness. How this StarSense technology works is actually very similar to what can be referred to as plate-solving. The Celestron Starsense explorer dx 102az telescope uses one of the oldest types of telescope optics. This StarSense Explorer DX 102 review was written in January 2020, when the scope was first released for $399. Though you won't have the activation code, it will open and test your phone for compatibility. Its focal length is 660 mm. You can upgrade your telescope set up later with some Barlow and Plossl eyepieces. This DX5 is Celestrons classic 5-inch SCT telescope tube with a hand-operable mount and the Starsense Explorer functionality that allows you to connect your smartphone and allow it to guide you, like the models above. I am sorry but I have zero knowledge on this so please excuse my raw language ! ), Neutron Star vs Nova (How Are They Different? Tower - 3, Oxygen Business Park SEZ, Sector 144, Noida Expressway, Noida, Uttar Pradesh - 201304. With the Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 102AZ, which links the telescope to modern mobile phone technology and computing power, Celestron has made locating objects in the sky not just easy, but fun especially for those just starting out in a skywatching hobby. Celestron StarSense Explorer: 8 Models Compared (2023) For Celestron dx 102az the former type is used and also they are low in quality. StarSense Explorer DX 102AZ Smartphone App-Enabled Refractor Telescope. I am trying to get my 9 Year old interested in this and the only reason why I was considering the 130 was because of the Star sense app which makes it super easy to find deep space objects and galaxies. The method of alignment is to aim the telescope at a chosen object which is where the red-dot finder comes in handy and then move the red crosswires on the app to the same object shown on the phone view. Celestron Starsense explorer dx 130az uses Newtonian reflector type optics. Low powered (25mm) and high powered (10mm) eyepiece. But it can suffer from spherical aberration. Celestron StarSense Explorer In fact, you do need to apply a lot of force to twist it. As for what the app provides, they have database of a few hundred celestial objects so not bad for a beginner getting involved with this hobby. And the Celestron Starsense Explorer dx 130az has a 10mm Kellner eyepiece with 65x magnification power. Mainly interested in the mount and optical tube. Also note, that the same telescope is also being sold as the Popular Science StarSense Explorer DX 5. ), Celestron AstroMaster 130EQ Review (A Good Beginner Device!? Winner: For this round, the Celestron Starsense Explorer dx 130az is the winner. They are generally more expensive though. The coating inside is of low quality. The pros of the lens included within the StarSense include the following : Overall, even though the optics within this telescope arent necessarily the most accurate when it comes to colours, it will still provide a solid experience for most. The new Celestron StarSense Explorer telescopes use your smartphone to make it much easier to find planets, galaxies, and other objects to look at. A simple slot-and-turn system would be much less aggravating for astronomers, unless you intend to use the instrument solely as a piece of furniture permanently set up in the corner of the room or do without the tray altogether. I had what seemed to be a related question, which has come up somewhat in that main thread: whether to purchase the DX . I have two young kids (between 5-10 years old) and would like to try and get them interested. Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ telescope review | T3 Before the main discussion, lets see the fundamental difference between both telescopes. Its also not flexible to eyepieces other than the 1.25 ones. StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ | Celestron However, we have some reservations on telescope vendors and recommend that you go with HPS. It has a memory card but it cant help you to take pictures. Deep-sky objects are a little less exciting. 10.7 Arcsec-(Rayleigh)0.89 Arcsec-(Dawes), 1.37 Arcsec-(Rayleigh)1.14 Arcsec-(Dawes), Has more magnification power and forms better views, Less expensive but doesnt provide enough features considering the price. Should I buy a used StarSense Explorer DX 102AZ? Add to Wish List. When you unbox your new StarSense Explorer DX, you'll find: 130mm Newtonian reflector optical tube. Thats all from us about Celestron Starsense explorer dx 102az vs 130az. Finally, the Celestron Starsense Explorer DX 130AZ model is bigger in terms of both physical bulk and aperture. Its focal length is about 650 mm. Like dx 102az, dx 130az also comes with two 1.25 eyepieces. Overall, this is a good option if you only have the budget for one of the cheaper telescopes and want more power. This means we may be compensated if you click links on this page at no extra cost to you. It has one 25mm Kellner eyepiece with 26x magnification power. Also can you recommend some good telescopes which are available for $400 price range or less.I really dont want to spend more as I dont know if my son will want to pursue this in the future. Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ telescope review A large 10" parabolic primary mirror with XLT coatings helps you make the most of StarSense technology. Every slow-motion control I've ever seen attaches to the mount using visible small thumb screws. ), Celestron Omni XLT 102 Review (Worth It Or Overpriced!? Its not a bad telescope to have. The final step is to remove the cap from the mirror on the StarSense dock again, courageously pulling off with some effort and fitting your smartphone into the spring-loaded slider. Starting with the Celestron StarSense Explorer LT 80AZ. ), Celestron Nexstar 4SE Review (Worth The Price Or Too, Celestron PowerSeeker 70EQ Review (Worth A Buy Or. The instrument is computerized, making use of the observer's smartphone and free-to-download StarSense Explorer app to make navigating the night sky and exploring solar system (opens in new tab) and bright deep-sky objects such as nebulas, star clusters and galaxies (opens in new tab) fun and, above all, a breeze to find. A tabletop telescope is the best choice at this price range. It shares many of the characteristics of the other refractor in the range above in that it is smaller, lighter, and less cumbersome to operate, but it is more powerful with the larger aperture and you will be able to see more through it. One major source of problems is the mirror that is crucial to finding objects. With the StarSense Explorer line of instruments, Celestrons magic solution has been to link these to a telescope, getting rid of the need for the costly handset, the user input, and the encoders. Overall, this is a brilliant option if you want near-perfect viewing of planets and galaxies and have the space to use it. Buy from scopes' recommended retailer, HighPoint, StarSense Explorer technology helpful in locating targets. In all my research the 8 Dobsonian seems to be a good beginner telescope. So the views become much sharper and clearer. After much debate, we finally know everything that there is to know regarding the two telescopes. Generally, refractors are less bulky and easier to operate. ), but techy enough to use either. The erect-image diagonal (which is necessary to allow the instrument to focus) introduces very little distortion, only marginally noticeable on a star image using a magnification of 130x. The images will generally be sharper because misalignment isnt very common, Refractor based devices tend to be more expensive than their similarly powered reflector counterparts (A 4 inch reflector may only set you back $100 one example being the. Review: Celestron StarSense Explorer Telescope These eyepieces have a lot of plastic in their build, but use glass optics and are fairly sharp, with more eye relief than a typical Plossl ocular (particularly beneficial with the 10mm). StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ Smartphone App-Enabled Telescope - Amazon.com Thats because of their aperture. StarSense Explorer Smartphone App-Enabled Telescopes | Celestron Find out more about how we test and review products. If you disregard factors like size and portability, then the Celestron Starsense Explorer 10 Dobsonian is the best as it has the highest aperture and will provide the best views. Overall, this is a great option if you want high power in a compact package and have the budget to pay a little more for this. There is no reason at all to get the StarSense Explorer LT 114AZ. Socket wrench + normal wrench should do the trick if I recall correctly. ), Deimos vs Saturn (How Are They Different? Which eyepieces would you suggest to replace those less-than-ideal ones that come with the Stars Sense 130? Way better scope but not comparable mount wise. Firstly its height might be a bit of a problem and secondly, the adjustment of the mount being quite stiff will make it a bit of pain to smoothly turn the Explorer. You can unsubscribe at any time. But youll find the images quite sharp. Boosting the magnification using a Celestron 2x Barlow lens revealed false color in lunar and planetary images, so this is not an ideal high-power or planetary instrument. Welcome to my Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 102AZ Review! A pair of flexible slow-motion cables are included for making fine adjustments, though the backlash from them can be annoying when using high magnifications, and its not as intuitive as a simple Dobsonian mount, for instance. Within seconds, you are on target and the cross wires turn green. DXC Technology | India There are some other manuals as well as computerized scopes in the DX 102 AZs price range that you might want to take a look at: A new star diagonal is probably the #1 thing you can do to improve the StarSense Explorer DX 102s performance. The Astro-Fi cant be used manually but is more capable overall. The StarSense has an Aperture of 102mm, a focal length of 650mm resulting in a focal ratio of just under f/6.5. The model I tested is the Explorer DX 102AZ refractor telescope ($400). The Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 102AZ is an achromatic refractor, with a 102 mm doublet lens composed of two different types of glass. For information: The StarSense technology on these telescopes enables you to use your smartphone to give you much of what youd get from a GOTO telescope. The 5 reflector seems like a solid scope. https://www.NexStarSite.com. In practice, this system is limited to an accuracy of a bit better 0.25 degrees, or half the width of a full moon. Celestrons specs say 11% obstruction by area, so the 130 loses 1460 of area = 11813, still bigger than the 102. Why you can trust Space.com This is not to be confused with smartphone attachments that simply enable you to take photos of bright objects through the eyepiece, as found on some other beginners instruments. In terms of which one is right for you, there are two key things to look at it price and size: The fact that the price difference is fairly large actually helps narrow it down as, if you know your budget, you just need to pick what matters to you most: Please let us know if you have any questions by leaving a comment below. 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Stargazinghelp.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by linking to Amazon.com. The eyepiece for the 102mm will be better positioned for the little one. It has an aperture of 114 mm (4.5 inches). Brand new in 2022 are the two new Dobsonians in the range this Starsense Explorer 8-inch Dobsonian, and the 10-inch version covered below. Finally, there is a standard red-dot finder to help in pointing the telescope at objects. For further details on these telescopes, you can also check outCelestrons website. Heres how it works. Galaxies, nebulaes, star clusters and large parts of the messier should be viewable although there may be issues showing accurate colours with some stars. In this article, we provide an overview of the differences between these telescopes so that you can understand the pros and cons of each. Newly added to the range in 2022 are this two Schmidt-Cassegrain (SCT) models the DX5 and the DX6 (below). This is fortunate, as the Quick Start manual ends at this point. Celestron Starsense Explorer 8 Dobsonian, Celestron Starsense Explorer 10 Dobsonian. What about the Skywatcher skymax 102, 127 AZ GTI WIFI telescope? The alt-azimuth mounting means that you can move the instrument around two axes up and down (altitude) and from side to side (azimuth). The StarSense Explorer DX-102 is limited to brighter objects by the nature of its small aperture. However, due to how simple and easy it is to use as result of the app, its not a bad comprise despite being less accurate. What Do The Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 102AZ's Specifications Mean? It's siblings, though, 80AZ , 102AZ, and 130AZ, are much . StarSense Explorer 10" Dobsonian Telescope | Celestron Thankfully, even with 1.25 eyepieces, you can squeeze out a field of view of about 2.5 degrees with a 32mm Plossl or similar, so this should not be of huge concern to a beginner. Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ Review (Is The, Orion EON 115ED Triplet Review (Photography Device Worth, Celestron Omni XLT 120 Review (Is It Worth The Price?!