Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes, popularly known as SCTs, have fast become the preferred choice for novice and experienced stargazing enthusiasts around the world. They boast of impressive portability and compactness and are perfectly suitable for use in astrophotography, land viewing, and stargazing. They are also considered as a cross between reflector and refractor telescopes, making them an all-round product capable of performing impressive functions.
Best Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescopes
Below are our best Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope reviews
1. Celestron – NexStar 6SE Telescope
This SCT is a computerized telescope for beginners and experts with a fully automated Go-To mount. As Celestron’s first new SCT in over a decade, the NexStar 6SE weighs a total of about 30lbs, packed with 1500mm (f/10) of focal length and 44% more light-acquiring ability than a 5-inch telescope.
- Equipped with a 6-inch primary mirror aperture for brighter, clearer results.
- User-friendly and easily assembled.
- State of the art technology for a seamless experience.
2. Celestron NexStar 8 SE Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope
The 8SE is an improvement of the NexStar 6SE model, with even more mouthwatering functions added. Although it costs significantly higher, the large 8-inch aperture, 25mm (81x) E-Lux eyepiece and SkyAlign telescope alignment software coupled in that portable frame make the price worth it.
- Stunning 8-inch aperture with extra lighting features for the best viewing.
- State of the art Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope with a fully computerized operating system.
- SkyAlign technology that lets you easily locate and observe objects in the night sky.
3. Meade Instruments 8-Inch Advanced Coma-Free Telescope
This telescope has an edge over most other Schmidt-Cassegrain models in that the system and has been designed to reduce astigmatism and eradicate the diffraction spikes noticed in other models. Great for amateur and professional astronomers and astrophotographers alike. The telescope packs a heavy-duty 8-inch f/10 advanced coma-free (ACF) optical system with a focal length of 2000mm, balanced on a mechanical mount that can be manually adjusted about its axes even without power.
- It comes with a series 4000 26mm Plösll eyepiece.
- 8-inch f/10 ACF optics with 2000mm focal length.
- Ultra-high transmission coatings for optimal image clarity and contrast.
4. Celestron – NexStar Evolution 8 WiFi Enabled Computerized Telescope
The Celestron NexStar Evolution 8 is an 8-inch, WiFi-supported Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope with the option of complete control via the iPhone and android compatible smartphone app. It’s the first WiFi-enabled SCT available on the market with a heavy price tag and even heavier specs. Specially designed to be the most user-friendly computerized telescope in retail, with the SkyAlign technology to help you target and observe objects more easily, the Evolution 8 doesn’t require an external power supply. It includes a rechargeable Li-ion battery that can last for up to 10 hours.
- Built-in Lithium-Ion battery for long-lasting use (10 hours max.)
- Uses lightweight 8-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain optical tube.
- Fully computerized with Wi-Fi and smartphone support.
Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope Buying Guide
With the popularity of Schmidt-Cassegrain models on the rise, more people are opting to purchase one instead of the orthodox refractors and reflectors. They simply are well-suited to the needs of the modern-day observer, with more compactness and versatility, as well as ease of use because most new models are computerized. Before getting one model or the other, here are a few factors to consider to find the right device for your astronomical needs.
Aperture
The aperture of your SCT plays a most important role in the number of objects you can observe in the cosmos. A higher aperture means you have more celestial objects in your view at once and at your disposal. With good camera adaptability, you can easily capture vast expanses of the cosmos. Greater apertures, however, translate to higher price tags. If your budget isn’t an issue, you can crack the bank (not break it) and go for the best.
Convenience
The larger SCT types require a heavy amount of power to function properly, while the more portable and equally effective models run on lithium-ion and standard batteries. The larger models offer greater functionality and more impressive magnification. But if you’re big on portability, then you might want to consider the latter.
Mount
Here’s a piece of advice. Be sure that any telescope you purchase comes with its tripod, to avoid extra and unnecessary costs. Some models have a computer-controlled mounting system, while others work mechanically. It all comes down to personal choice. Electronic mounts are hands-free and may come with tracking features and astronomical databases of celestial bodies.
The mount provides great support and allows you to focus less on keeping the telescope in position and more on making fine adjustments.
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