When it comes to exploring the wonders of the night sky, computerized telescopes have revolutionized the way both beginners and seasoned astronomers observe planets, galaxies, and deep-sky objects. Unlike traditional models that require manual adjustments, computerized telescopes come equipped with GoTo technology, motorized mounts, and built-in databases of celestial objects. With just a few simple commands, they can automatically locate and track stars, planets, galaxies, and nebulae with precision, making stargazing more accessible and enjoyable.
These advanced telescopes are ideal for anyone who wants a blend of convenience, accuracy, and high-quality optics. Whether you’re fascinated by the rings of Saturn, the craters of the Moon, or the distant glow of the Andromeda Galaxy, a computerized telescope ensures that you spend less time searching and more time observing.
Main Components
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Optical Tube Assembly (OTA):
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The actual telescope (can be refractor, reflector, or compound design).
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Determines how much light it gathers and how sharp the images are.
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Computerized Mount (GoTo Mount):
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Comes in alt-azimuth (up-down, left-right) or equatorial design.
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Motorized to automatically point and track objects once aligned.
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Hand Controller or Built-in WiFi App Control:
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A keypad or mobile app that allows you to choose an object from a preloaded celestial database (sometimes 30,000+ objects).
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Tripod:
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Usually adjustable and sturdy to hold the telescope stable.
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Perfect for backyard astronomers, educators, and astrophotography enthusiasts, these instruments combine portability with powerful performance.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best computerized telescopes for viewing planets and galaxies, highlighting their key features, benefits, and why they stand out as top choices for celestial exploration.
5 Best Computerized Telescope for Viewing Planets and Galaxies.
1.Celestron NexStar 130SLT
The Celestron NexStar 130SLT is one of the most popular computerized telescopes designed for beginner and intermediate astronomers who want convenience, portability, and advanced features in a single package. As the largest telescope in the SLT family, it stands out for its Newtonian reflector optical design and impressive 130mm aperture. This gives users the ability to enjoy detailed views of planets like Jupiter and Saturn, as well as deep-sky objects such as galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters.
What makes this telescope especially appealing is its fully computerized star locating system, which allows you to choose from a database of over 4,000 celestial objects. Once selected, the telescope automatically locates and tracks your target with incredible accuracy, removing the frustration of manual searching. Compact, lightweight, and easy to assemble, the NexStar 130SLT is perfect for families, hobbyists, or anyone looking to bring the wonders of the universe closer during weekend camping trips or dark-sky excursions. With added perks like free Starry Night software, unbeatable Celestron customer support, and compatibility with 2-inch eyepieces, this telescope offers a perfect balance of usability and performance.
Key Specifications
- Optical Design: Newtonian Reflector
- Aperture: 130mm (5.1”)
- Mount: Computerized Altazimuth
- Database: 4,000+ celestial objects
- Eyepiece Compatibility: Accepts 2-inch eyepieces
- Software: Free Starry Night astronomy software
- Warranty: 2 years + lifetime technical support
- Portability: Compact, lightweight, easy to transport
Features
- Computerized Star Location System
The NexStar 130SLT is equipped with a computerized mount that automatically locates and tracks over 4,000 celestial objects. This removes guesswork and ensures you spend more time observing than searching. - Powerful 130mm Aperture
With a large aperture for its size, the telescope gathers significant light, offering sharp and bright views. This allows you to see the rings of Saturn, the cloud bands of Jupiter, craters on the Moon, and even bright deep-sky targets. - Compact & Portable Design
Weighing less than 20 lbs when fully assembled, the NexStar 130SLT is highly portable and can be easily transported to camping trips or remote dark-sky locations. Its tool-free assembly makes setup fast and simple. - Free Starry Night Software
Included with the telescope is a downloadable version of Starry Night software, one of the most highly rated astronomy programs. It provides an interactive simulation of the night sky, making planning your observations easier and more engaging. - Trusted Brand & Warranty
Backed by Celestron’s decades of expertise, the NexStar 130SLT comes with a two-year warranty and unlimited access to U.S.-based technical support. This makes it a reliable long-term investment for stargazers.
Pros
- Large 130mm aperture delivers bright, clear views
- Computerized star tracking system for ease of use
- Lightweight and portable, perfect for travel
- Includes Starry Night software for sky simulation
- Strong warranty and U.S.-based support
Cons
- Beginners may need time to get used to alignment process
2.Celestron NexStar 8SE
The Celestron NexStar 8SE is one of the most popular computerized telescopes for amateur astronomers who want professional-level features in a user-friendly package. It combines Celestron’s iconic orange-tube Schmidt-Cassegrain optical design with advanced automation, making it a go-to choice for both beginners and seasoned stargazers.
The balance between portability, powerful optics, and computerized guidance makes this telescope especially suited for those who want to explore the planets, the Moon, and deep-sky objects with minimal setup effort.
With its fully automated GoTo mount and extensive 40,000+ object database, the NexStar 8SE removes the challenges of manual navigation. Whether you’re in your backyard or at a remote dark-sky site, this telescope delivers exceptional clarity, reliable tracking, and smooth operation. Its SkyAlign technology ensures even first-time users can be up and observing in just minutes.
Product Features
- 8-Inch Schmidt-Cassegrain Optics
The NexStar 8SE features an 8-inch aperture that captures remarkable amounts of light. This allows users to see fine lunar details, Saturn’s rings, Jupiter’s bands, and deep-sky treasures such as galaxies and globular clusters. Despite its large aperture, the design remains compact and portable. - Fully Automated GoTo Mount with NexStar+ Hand Control
Equipped with a computerized GoTo mount, the 8SE can automatically find and track your chosen celestial object. The NexStar+ hand control gives access to a database of over 40,000 stars, planets, and galaxies, eliminating the need for manual charts or complicated alignment. - SkyAlign Technology for Easy Setup
Alignment is made simple through SkyAlign. By centering any three bright stars or planets—without needing to know their names—the system automatically calculates your position and aligns the telescope within minutes. - Compatible with Celestron Accessories
The NexStar 8SE is designed to grow with you. From wireless control modules to GPS upgrades, it’s compatible with a wide range of Celestron accessories, giving you flexibility as your astronomy skills advance. - Reliable Warranty and Customer Support
As with all Celestron products, the 8SE comes with a 2-year warranty and access to unlimited support from a team of US-based experts. This ensures peace of mind and long-term reliability.
Key Specifications
- Optical Design: Schmidt-Cassegrain
- Aperture: 203mm (8 inches)
- Database: 40,000+ celestial objects
- Alignment: SkyAlign technology
- Mount Type: Computerized GoTo
- Warranty: 2 years
Pros
- Large 8-inch aperture for exceptional clarity and detail
- Fully computerized GoTo system with 40,000+ object database
- Easy alignment process with SkyAlign
- Portable despite its powerful optics
- Compatible with numerous accessories for future upgrades
Cons
- Higher price point compared to entry-level telescopes
3.Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ
The Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ is designed to make stargazing accessible to everyone, even complete beginners. Unlike traditional telescopes that require learning star charts or using computerized hand controllers, this model transforms your smartphone into a powerful navigation tool. By combining Celestron’s patented StarSense sky recognition technology with a high-quality 130mm Newtonian reflector, it simplifies locating celestial objects while still delivering impressive optical performance.
This telescope is particularly appealing to those who want to enjoy planets, nebulae, and galaxies without the steep learning curve of astronomy. Once your phone is docked and the StarSense app is launched, the system analyzes the sky in real-time, generates a curated list of the best objects to observe that night, and guides you step by step until you’re aligned with the target. The altazimuth mount with slow-motion controls ensures smooth tracking, allowing you to stay locked on to the object once you’ve found it.
Perfect for families, beginners, or even seasoned hobbyists who want a quick and effortless setup, the Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ combines modern technology with proven optics. Whether you’re viewing from your backyard in the city or under darker skies, it offers clear, vivid images of the Moon, planets like Saturn and Jupiter, and deep-sky favorites like the Andromeda Galaxy.
Key Specifications
- Optical Design: Newtonian Reflector
- Aperture: 130mm (5″)
- Mount Type: Manual Altazimuth with slow-motion controls
- Smartphone Integration: StarSense Explorer app with patented sky recognition technology
- Warranty: 2-Year US Warranty + unlimited US-based technical support
Product Features
- Smartphone-Powered Sky Tour
Simply dock your phone and launch the StarSense Explorer app. Follow on-screen arrows to quickly locate stars, planets, galaxies, and nebulae with ease—no prior astronomy knowledge needed. - Patented StarSense Technology
Unlike standard sky apps, this system uses advanced star-pattern recognition to determine your telescope’s exact position, turning your smartphone into a powerful celestial navigation system. - Curated Target Recommendations
The app generates a personalized list of the best objects to observe based on your location and time. This makes it easy to spot planets, bright clusters, and galaxies from urban skies, with even more visible under dark conditions. - Stable Mount with Smooth Tracking
Equipped with a manual altazimuth mount and dual-axis slow-motion controls, the telescope allows smooth and accurate movement. Once aligned, you can keep celestial objects in view with minimal effort. - High-Quality Optics for Stunning Views
The 130mm reflector with high-reflectivity coatings provides bright, sharp, and detailed views. The Moon’s craters, Saturn’s rings, Jupiter’s bands, and deep-sky objects like the Orion Nebula look especially vivid. - Trusted Brand & Warranty Support
Celestron, a leading telescope manufacturer since 1960, backs this product with a 2-year warranty and unlimited US-based customer support, ensuring confidence in your investment.
Pros
- Intuitive app guidance makes it beginner-friendly
- Excellent optical quality with bright and clear images
- Curated object list saves time for quick stargazing sessions
- Smooth altazimuth mount with fine adjustments
- Reliable warranty and technical support
Cons
- Requires a smartphone for navigation
4.Celestron StarSense Explorer LT 114AZ (Tabletop)
The Celestron StarSense Explorer LT 114AZ (Tabletop) is a modern beginner-friendly telescope that blends traditional optics with advanced smartphone integration. Unlike conventional telescopes that require manual star maps or complicated alignments, this model leverages Celestron’s patented StarSense Technology, turning your smartphone into a real-time celestial navigation guide. With just a few taps, users can explore planets, star clusters, nebulae, and galaxies without prior experience.
Its 114mm Newtonian reflector design ensures crisp, detailed images of celestial wonders. You can enjoy close-up views of the Moon’s craters, Saturn’s iconic rings, or even spot the Andromeda Galaxy under darker skies. High-reflectivity coatings enhance light transmission, producing bright, sharp visuals even in moderately light-polluted environments.
Portability and ease of use are key highlights. The tabletop design keeps the telescope compact and travel-ready, making it ideal for backyard stargazing, family nights, or outdoor camping adventures. Paired with the intuitive StarSense Explorer app, which generates a curated list of “Tonight’s Best” objects based on your time and location, it ensures every viewing session is rewarding.
Since 1960, Celestron has been a trusted name in astronomy equipment, and this model continues the tradition by combining optical excellence with user-focused innovation. Backed by a 2-year warranty and unlimited U.S.-based support, the StarSense Explorer LT 114AZ is designed to give beginners a seamless introduction to astronomy while still satisfying curious hobbyists.
Key Specifications
- Optical Design: 114mm (4.5”) Newtonian reflector
- Mount Type: Manual altazimuth with altitude slow-motion adjustment rod
- App Integration: StarSense Explorer app (iOS & Android)
- Navigation: Patented StarSense sky recognition technology
- Portability: Lightweight tabletop design, easy setup
- Warranty: 2-Year US Warranty with unlimited support
Product Features
1. Smartphone-Powered Sky Tour
The telescope uses your smartphone as a celestial guide. Simply dock your phone, open the StarSense Explorer app, and follow arrows on the screen to locate planets, stars, galaxies, and more. This feature eliminates the need for complex charts or guesswork, making astronomy accessible to beginners.
2. Patented StarSense Technology
Unlike ordinary astronomy apps, StarSense doesn’t just rely on GPS—it actually scans and recognizes star patterns overhead. By analyzing your exact position in the sky, it ensures precise navigation to celestial targets, a feature unique to Celestron’s system.
3. “Tonight’s Best” Curated List
The app automatically generates a list of the best objects visible from your location, factoring in time and sky conditions. From bright planets like Jupiter and Saturn to deep-sky favorites like Orion Nebula and star clusters, it ensures you never run out of things to explore.
4. Smooth Manual Tracking
Equipped with an altazimuth mount and an altitude slow-motion adjustment rod, the LT 114AZ offers smooth manual control. This allows you to easily follow celestial objects as they move across the sky, ensuring a stable and steady view.
5. High-Quality Optics
With its 114mm Newtonian reflector and high-reflectivity coatings, the telescope delivers sharp, bright views. It’s powerful enough to reveal planetary details such as Jupiter’s cloud bands, Saturn’s rings, and surface textures of the Moon, while also capturing faint galaxies and nebulae under darker skies.
6. Compact & Beginner-Friendly Design
Weighing far less than full-sized mounts, this tabletop telescope is compact, lightweight, and simple to set up. Perfect for young stargazers, families, or hobbyists who want a grab-and-go instrument for spontaneous viewing sessions.
7. Reliable Support & Warranty
As a leading telescope brand since 1960, Celestron offers a 2-Year US Warranty and access to U.S.-based customer support, giving users peace of mind and long-term confidence in their purchase.
Pros
- Intuitive smartphone integration with StarSense Explorer app
- No prior astronomy knowledge required
- Bright, detailed images from 114mm Newtonian optics
- Smooth manual tracking with slow-motion control
- Compact, lightweight tabletop design for portability
- Curated “Tonight’s Best” target list enhances stargazing sessions
- Backed by a strong warranty and U.S.-based support
Cons
- Tabletop design may require a stable surface or tripod stand
5.Vespera II Smart Telescope
The Vespera II Smart Telescope is an innovative leap forward in modern astronomy, designed for explorers who want to experience the cosmos without the complexity of traditional telescopes. Unlike bulky, hard-to-set-up models, this device is fully automated, ultra-lightweight, and compact enough to accompany you on outdoor adventures. Whether you’re camping in the wilderness, exploring a dark-sky reserve, or simply setting it up in your backyard, the Vespera II offers a portable gateway to the universe.
What sets this telescope apart is its seamless integration with the Vaonis mobile app, which transforms your smartphone into a powerful space companion. Instead of spending hours aligning your telescope, the Vespera II activates and calibrates itself automatically using Star Field Recognition Technology, ensuring precise celestial tracking without effort. Built to withstand the outdoors, it is also water-resistant and smart enough to shut down when it detects rain, protecting your investment while providing peace of mind. This blend of portability, automation, and durability makes it one of the most user-friendly smart telescopes available today.
Key Specifications
- Type: Fully automated smart telescope
- Weight: Ultra-light, portable design
- Technology: Vaonis Star Field Recognition for automatic calibration
- App Integration: Compatible with Vaonis mobile app for control and live viewing
- Water Resistance: Weatherproof design with automatic shutdown in rain
- Best For: Beginners, travelers, and astronomy enthusiasts seeking a portable, high-tech telescope
Product Features
- Ultra-Light and Portable
At just a fraction of the size and weight of traditional telescopes, the Vespera II is designed to go wherever you go. Its portability means you can enjoy stargazing from remote locations where skies are darkest, enhancing the viewing experience. - Fully Automated Setup
No prior astronomy experience is required. Once powered on, the telescope calibrates itself automatically, eliminating manual alignment frustrations and saving valuable observation time. - Star Field Recognition Technology
Using advanced algorithms, the telescope identifies star patterns in the sky and aligns itself precisely. This ensures accurate tracking of celestial objects, whether planets, galaxies, or nebulae. - App-Driven Experience
By connecting to the Vaonis mobile app, users gain access to guided tours, real-time imagery, and interactive controls. This makes the telescope not just an observing tool but also an educational experience. - Weather-Smart Protection
Built with outdoor durability in mind, the Vespera II is water-resistant and features an intelligent auto-shutdown when it detects rainfall. This ensures both longevity and reliability in unpredictable conditions.
Pros
- Ultra-light and portable—ideal for travel and outdoor adventures
- Fully automated calibration removes guesswork
- Star Field Recognition ensures precise object tracking
- Seamless mobile app integration for guided tours and easy controls
- Water-resistant with smart rain-detection shutdown
Cons
- Premium pricing compared to entry-level models
6.Celestron 114LCM
The Vespera II Smart Telescope is not just a telescope—it’s a complete stargazing solution designed to make astronomy more accessible, portable, and exciting. Traditional telescopes often come with steep learning curves, requiring time, patience, and experience to properly align and use. The Vespera II eliminates those challenges by combining cutting-edge technology with user-friendly design, making it a perfect option for beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike.
One of the standout features of the Vespera II is its ultra-lightweight and compact build. Unlike bulky telescopes that are often limited to backyard use, this model is designed for adventure. Whether you’re hiking into a dark-sky park, camping in the wilderness, or simply enjoying a clear night in your neighborhood, the Vespera II is portable enough to go anywhere. This makes it particularly appealing for those who want to combine astronomy with travel and outdoor exploration.
The telescope’s automation and smart capabilities are where it truly shines. Powered by Vaonis Star Field Recognition Technology, it can identify star patterns and calibrate itself automatically, sparing users the frustration of manual adjustments. Once set up, it connects seamlessly with the Vaonis mobile app, transforming your smartphone or tablet into an interactive astronomy guide. You can explore galaxies, nebulae, and planets with just a few taps, making every session both educational and engaging.
Adding to its durability, the Vespera II is water-resistant and designed with built-in weather protection. If rain begins, it intelligently shuts down, ensuring both safety and longevity. This smart, forward-thinking design makes the Vespera II a truly modern telescope built for real-world use.
Key Specifications
- Type: Fully automated smart telescope
- Weight: Ultra-light, portable design
- Technology: Vaonis Star Field Recognition for automatic calibration
- App Integration: Compatible with Vaonis mobile app for control and live viewing
- Water Resistance: Weatherproof design with automatic shutdown in rain
- Best For: Beginners, travelers, and astronomy enthusiasts seeking portability and simplicity
Product Features
- Ultra-Light and Portable
Designed with mobility in mind, the Vespera II can be easily carried to outdoor locations. Its compact build ensures you can stargaze from remote spots with darker skies. - Fully Automated Setup
The telescope calibrates and aligns itself automatically. Beginners will appreciate not needing technical expertise, while experienced users will save time during setup. - Star Field Recognition Technology
This advanced system scans the sky, recognizes star patterns, and aligns the telescope with incredible precision, ensuring accurate tracking of celestial objects. - Seamless App Integration
Through the Vaonis mobile app, users can control the telescope, follow guided tours, and capture stunning cosmic images. The app turns astronomy into an interactive experience. - Weather-Smart Protection
With water resistance and automatic rain detection, the Vespera II protects itself against sudden weather changes, making it reliable for outdoor adventures.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable—ideal for travel and outdoor use
- Fully automated with quick, beginner-friendly setup
- Precise star tracking using advanced recognition technology
- App connectivity adds guided tours and real-time imagery
- Water-resistant with smart rain-shutdown feature
Cons
- Higher price point than basic beginner telescopes
Best-Selling & Smart Computerized Telescopes Compact Comparison.
| Telescope Model | Aperture / Design | Key Features | Portability & Setup |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Celestron NexStar 130SLT | 130 mm Newtonian (F/5) | Computerized GoTo with SkyAlign, 4,000+ object database, includes Starry Night software. | Lightweight (~18 lbs), easy setup. |
| 2. Celestron NexStar 8SE | 8″ Schmidt-Cassegrain (SCT) | GoTo control, StarBright XLT optics, 40,000+ object catalog, compact tube | Highly portable and travel-friendly |
| 3. Celestron StarSense Explorer DX 130AZ | 130 mm Newtonian (F/5) | Smartphone alignment with LISA algorithm, alt-az mount, large aperture, comes with app & dock. | Lightweight (~18 lbs), 15min setup |
| 4. Celestron StarSense Explorer LT 114AZ (Tabletop) | 114 mm Newtonian | Smartphone-guided using StarSense, compact tabletop design for beginners | Ultra-portable tabletop model |
| 5. Vaonis Vespera II (Smart Telescope) | Smart camera-enabled scope | Fully automated imaging, app-controlled, captures & stacks deep-sky views without eyepiece | Compact all-in-one device |
| 6. Celestron 114LCM | 114 mm Newtonian reflector | Motorized GoTo mount, altitude/azimuth tracking, budget-friendly entry into computerized scopes | Relatively portable, budget option |
Conclusion
Computerized telescopes have transformed stargazing by making it easier than ever to explore the night sky. Whether you are a beginner curious about the Moon and planets or a seasoned astronomer seeking to uncover distant galaxies and nebulae, these telescopes provide accuracy, convenience, and powerful optics in one package. With GoTo technology, motorized tracking, and vast celestial databases, they eliminate the frustration of manually searching for objects and let you focus on enjoying the view.
Choosing the best computerized telescope depends on your needs—compact models are excellent for portability, while larger apertures deliver breathtaking detail on deep-sky objects. No matter your choice, investing in a computerized telescope opens the door to unforgettable nights under the stars, turning curiosity into discovery and making the universe accessible at the touch of a button.