Celstron Nexstar 102 SLT

I am looking for reviews/opinions of Celestron's new NexStar 102 SLT. I will be using this for general observing (mostly lunar and planetary).

I have owned other scopes (from etx-70 to LX-90) but have found them too small or too big for my needs. I thought the 102 would be just right.

Thanks for any advice,
Jason

I have not seen any reviews of this scope. Are you willing to be the guinea pig?

I would envision that optics in this price range will have a fair amount of error. While this scope would probably be better than the etx70, it can be no way near optically as good as the lx90. Probably ok if your interest lies in rich-field viewing.

my $.02 (worth $.005)
Brock

Hi:

If your needs are primarily lunar and planetary then this scope is probably not a good choice. It should be reasonably compact and provide decent widefield views and even acceptable high power viewing but one cannot get around the fact that it is a 102mm F6.5 Achromat, just not a planetary scope by any stretch of the imagination.

I don't know what other scopes you have had over the years, but there are many options that might fit your needs. Probably the best all around planetary/general purpose scope is a good quality 8 inch DOB. Quick and easy to setup, it will provide the sorts of views that require an 8 inch scope without the hassle of dealing with a complex mount like that of the LX-90.

Others might include a high quality MAK and of course a 4 or 5 inch APO, all depending upon your budget.

Jon

I ordered the Nexstar 102 SLT this morning, which expected delivery at the beginning of May.

I will let you know what I think after it arrives.

Jason