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Automatic telescopes are advanced optical devices equipped with motorized mounts and computerized tracking systems. These telescopes automatically align and track celestial objects in the sky, allowing for an effortless stargazing experience.
Unlike traditional manual telescopes that require users to locate and follow objects manually, automatic telescopes can be connected to a computer or handheld controller.
Users can input the object they wish to view, and the telescope will automatically point itself towards that object, tracking it as it moves across the sky.
Of all the advances in telescope technology, perhaps none has had a greater impact than the advent of automatic tracking.
This functionality lets telescopes automatically follow celestial bodies as they move across the sky, saving you the trouble of manual adjustments and making your stargazing experience seamless.
If you’re a veteran astronomer looking for a telescope upgrade, an aspiring astrophotographer, or a curious hobbyist interested in the celestial wonders above us, this post is for you.
We’ve selected automatic telescopes that cater to various needs, from budget options to specialized models for deep-space viewing and astrophotography.
Our team’s top picks for telescopes with automatic tracking
- Our overall best telescope with automatic tracking: Celestron NexStar 8SE
- Best budget telescope with automatic tracking: Celestron 114LCM Computerized Newtonian Telescope
- Best telescope with automatic tracking for astrophotography: Celestron Advanced VX 8-Inch Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope
- Best telescope with automatic tracking for deep-space objects: Sky-Watcher GoTo Collapsible Dobsonian 8-Inch
- Best telescope with automatic tracking for planets: Celestron NexStar 5SE
Overall Best Telescope with Automatic Tracking
1. Celestron NexStar 8SE
- Aperture: 8 inches
- Focal length: 2032mm
- What we like: High-quality optics, vast database of celestial objects
- What we don’t like: Requires power supply, could be heavy for some users
The Celestron NexStar 8SE merges the classic heritage of the original orange tube telescopes with the latest state-of-the-art features. This model is a favorite among stargazers, offering an 8-inch aperture that captures excellent detail in celestial objects.
Its 2032mm focal length with a focal ratio f /10 makes it a versatile option for viewing planets and deep-sky objects,
Celestron’s iconic “orange tube” design has been updated with all the latest features to provide the best stargazing experience for beginners and experienced observers.
It comes with a fully computerized GoTo mount with a database of over 40,000 celestial objects, allowing automatic tracking once the telescope is aligned.
The Celestron NexStar 8 SE Telescope is an exemplary fusion of tradition and innovation. It is one of the best GoTo telescopes.
Building upon the legacy of Celestron’s original orange tube telescopes, this model modernizes the iconic design with the latest state-of-the-art features to provide an unmatched stargazing experience.
For more about this telescope, read the detailed review: Celestron NexStar 8SE Telescope Review (Read Before Purchase)
Best budget telescope with automatic tracking
2. Celestron 114LCM Computerized Newtonian Telescope
- Aperture: 4.49 inches
- Focal length: 1000mm
- What we like: User-friendly computerized navigation, great value for the price, suitable for beginners and intermediate users, extensive database of celestial objects.
- What we don’t like: May require additional accessories for astrophotography, not ideal for very faint deep-sky objects.
Celestron 114LCM Computerized Newtonian Telescope is budget-friendly computerized telescope and a perfect entry point for those looking to explore the night sky without breaking the bank.
With a 114mm aperture, it’s capable of capturing detailed images of the moon, planets, and even some deep sky objects.
The computerized mount allows for automatic tracking of celestial objects, making it easier for beginners to find and follow night sky objects.
It also includes Celestron’s SkyAlign technology, making setup just a few moments’ tasks.
For those looking for today’s best deals on a high-quality telescope with automatic tracking capabilities, the Celestron 114LCM offers an impressive feature set at a budget-friendly price.
Best telescope with automatic tracking for astrophotography
3. Celestron Advanced VX 8″ Schmidt-Cassegrain
- Aperture: 8 inches
- Focal length: 2032mm
- What we like: Advanced VX Equatorial Mount, great for astrophotography, superb optics
- What we don’t like: Complex for beginners, requires power supply
Celestron’s Advanced VX 8″ Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope is a dream come true for astrophotographers. It combines a large 8-inch aperture and a 2032mm focal length to offer highly detailed, bright views of celestial objects, making it ideal for capturing beautiful astro-images.
Its Advanced VX Equatorial Mount is specifically designed for astrophotography.
This mount offers precise tracking, reducing star trailing and other motion-related issues, thereby improving the quality of long-exposure photographs.
However, this telescope’s complexity may pose a challenge to beginners. Its setup, especially aligning the equatorial mount, requires a bit of experience.
Best telescope with automatic tracking for deep sky objects
4. Sky-Watcher GoTo Collapsible Dobsonian 8-Inch
- Aperture: 8-inch
- Focal length: 1200mm
- What we like: Large aperture for gathering more light, collapsible design for easy transport
- What we don’t like: Altazimuth mount might not be ideal for long-exposure astrophotography, stability might be a concern due to the collapsible design
The Sky-Watcher GoTo Collapsible Dobsonian 8-Inch is a strong performer for deep-space object observation. Its generous 8-inch aperture allows for detailed views of faint objects in the night sky, such as galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters.
The GoTo tracking system adds the convenience of automatic tracking, keeping objects in view without manual adjustments.
The collapsible design is great for portability but may raise stability concerns.
While it offers some potential for basic astrophotography, the altazimuth mount might limit its capability for serious long-exposure imaging of deep space objects.
Best telescope with automatic tracking for planets
5. Celestron NexStar 6SE Schmidt-Cassegrain
- Aperture: 6 inches
- Focal length: 1500mm
- What we like: Exceptional planet views, user-friendly, robust database
- What we don’t like: Short battery life
The Celestron NexStar 6SE is a standout choice for observing planets. Its 6-inch aperture and 1500mm focal length, combined with high-quality Schmidt-Cassegrain optics, produce sharp and bright images of Jupiter’s bands, Saturn’s rings, and other planetary features.
The telescope features a user-friendly computerized GoTo mount that automatically locates and tracks objects in its 40,000+ celestial object database.
The NexStar 6SE also incorporates SkyAlign technology, which allows quick and easy alignment of the telescope to the night sky, even for beginners.
Despite its advanced features, the NexStar 6SE isn’t without flaws. The battery life can be short, which means it may require a separate power supply for extended viewing sessions.
Read the complete review: Nexstar 6SE Telescope Review (Read This First!)
Best of the rest
6. Celestron Astro Fi 102 Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope
- Aperture: 4.02 inches
- Focal length: 1325mm
- What we like: Wireless control, compact and portable, good for lunar and planetary viewing
- What we don’t like: Wi-Fi connection can be tricky, not ideal for deep-space objects
The Celestron Astro Fi 102 offers an exciting take on telescope control, embracing the rise of smart devices. Its unique selling point is its wireless operation.
Instead of traditional hand controls, this model uses your smartphone or tablet to command the telescope, providing an interactive and contemporary stargazing experience.
The telescope is a Maksutov-Cassegrain model, which means it’s designed to be compact and highly portable. Despite its smaller 4-inch aperture, it offers impressively sharp views of the Moon and the planets in our solar system.
While innovative, the Astro Fi 102’s Wi-Fi control has drawbacks. Its smaller aperture means it’s less effective when observing faint, deep-space objects.
7. Sky-Watcher Flextube 250 SynScan Dobsonian 10-inch Collapsible Computerized telescope
- Aperture: 10-inch
- Focal length: 1200mm
- What we like: Collapsible design, high-quality optics
- What we don’t like: Somewhat cumbersome for transportation
The Sky-Watcher Flextube 250 10-inch Telescope offers a 10-inch aperture that promises clear and detailed views of celestial objects. Its collapsible design makes transportation and storage easier, while the SynScan computerized GoTo mount provides automatic tracking and an extensive celestial object database.
With a 1200mm focal length, this Dobsonian telescope is suitable for deep-sky observations, offering a blend of portability and performance.
The build quality is impressive, providing stability for long stargazing sessions.
Ideal for intermediate to advanced astronomers, it’s a great investment for those looking to explore deeper into the night sky.
8. Omegon Telescope Pro Ritchey-Chretien RC 154/1370 EQ6-R Pro
- Aperture: 154mm
- Focal Length: 1370mm
- What we like: High-end optics, precise EQ6-R Pro mount, astrophotography-ready
- What we don’t like: Expensive, more suitable for advanced users
The Omegon Telescope Pro Ritchey-Chretien RC 154/1370 comes with the advanced EQ6-R Pro mount, known for its precision and automatic tracking capabilities.
The telescope offers a 154mm aperture and 1370mm focal length, providing sharp, high-contrast images.
Its Ritchey-Chretien design is well-suited for serious astrophotography and deep-sky observations.
This telescope is best suited for advanced astronomers or professional observatories and offers premium quality at a higher price point.
9. Sky-Watcher Virtuoso GTi 130P
- Aperture: 130mm
- Focal length: 650mm
- What we like: Wi-Fi-controlled, sturdy construction, suitable for beginners
- What we don’t like: Requires a stable internet connection
The Sky-Watcher Virtuoso GTi 130P is a computerized reflector telescope designed for convenience and ease of use. It features a 130mm aperture and a 650mm focal length, suitable for planetary and deep-sky observations.
With the addition of Wi-Fi control, it enables seamless control through mobile devices.
The automatic tracking system makes navigation and alignment a breeze. This telescope balances quality and affordability, making it an excellent option for beginners and intermediate users.
10. Unistellar eVscope 2 Digital Telescope
- Aperture: 4.5-inches
- Focal length: 450 mm
- What we like: Digital enhancement, user-friendly interface, lightweight
- What we don’t like: Less traditional observing experience
The Unistellar eVscope 2 is a digital telescope offering a unique stargazing experience. Unlike traditional telescopes, it combines optics with digital enhancements to provide detailed views of celestial objects.
The automatic tracking capabilities and user-friendly interface make it accessible to all skill levels. Its lightweight design makes it highly portable.
Though unconventional, the eVscope 2 opens new doors to astronomy, particularly for those interested in a blend of technology and observation.
For more about this telescope, read the detailed review: Unistellar eVscope 2 Review (Full Review)
11. Celestron NexStar Evolution 8 Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope
- Aperture: 8
- Focal length: 2032mm
- What we like: WiFi connectivity, quality optics, user-friendly interface, rechargeable battery
- What we don’t like: May require a strong WiFi connection, a bit on the expensive side
The Celestron NexStar Evolution 8 offers an impressive 8-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain optical system and computerized tracking capabilities.
Its WiFi-enabled control lets users operate the telescope via a smartphone or tablet.
The NexStar Evolution’s sturdy mount and precision tracking system make it an excellent choice for both visual observation and astrophotography.
Its large aperture can gather enough light to provide breathtaking views of planets, galaxies, and nebulae.
The integrated rechargeable battery offers up to 10 hours of continuous use, allowing for extended stargazing sessions. Its ease of use and automatic tracking features make it suitable for both beginners and advanced users.
12. Sky-Watcher Flextube 300 SynScan Dobsonian 12-inch Collapsible Computerized GoTo Telescope
- Aperture: 12-inch
- Focal length: 1500mm
- What we like: Large aperture, collapsible design, precise tracking
- What we don’t like: Heavy and requires careful handling
With a massive 12-inch aperture, the Sky-Watcher Flextube 300 stands out for its ability to capture faint celestial objects. The collapsible design aids in portability, while the SynScan GoTo mount offers automatic tracking and a database of over 42,000 objects.
A focal length of 1500mm enhances the telescope’s deep-sky observation capabilities.
Built for advanced astronomers, this telescope combines the simplicity of a Dobsonian mount with cutting-edge technology, making deep-sky exploration an enthralling experience.
13. Celestron 80LCM Computerized Refractor Telescope
- Aperture: 80mm
- Focal length: 900mm
- What we like: Beginner-friendly, lightweight, automatic tracking
- What we don’t like: Limited deep-sky observation capabilities
The Celestron 80LCM is a computerized refractor telescope designed for beginners. With an 80mm aperture and 900mm focal length, it offers clear views of the Moon, planets, and some deep-sky objects.
The lightweight design makes it portable, and the computerized mount with automatic tracking ensures easy alignment and navigation.
Its user-friendly interface and sturdy construction make it an excellent choice for newcomers to astronomy.
14. Unistellar eQuinox 2 Smart Telescope
- Aperture: 114mm
- Focal length: 450mm
- What we like: Smart features, compact design, digital enhancements
- What we don’t like: Limited manual controls, more suitable for tech-savvy users
The Unistellar eQuinox 2 builds on the foundation laid by the eVscope, offering a smart telescope experience. Combining digital enhancements with optical performance provides an engaging way to explore the night sky.
Automatic tracking ensures accurate alignment, while the smart features add to the convenience.
Unistellar eQuinox 2 is one of the best smart telescopes. The compact design makes it a great travel companion.
Though it may not appeal to traditional astronomers, the eQuinox 2 offers a modern, interactive way to enjoy stargazing, particularly for those interested in incorporating technology into their observation experience.
You may also like: eVscope 2 vs. eQuinox Telescope: 3 Key Differences
15. Celestron Astro Fi 90 Wi-Fi Refractor Wireless Refracting Telescope
- Aperture: 90mm
- Focal length: 910mm
- What we like: Wi-Fi control, sleek design, user-friendly interface
- What we don’t like: May require a stable internet connection
The Celestron Astro Fi 90 is a modern, Wi-Fi-controlled refractor telescope perfect for tech-savvy astronomers. With a 90mm aperture, it offers clear views of the Moon, planets, and bright deep-sky objects.
Its wireless connectivity allows for effortless control through a smartphone or tablet. The unique mount design adds to its aesthetics, while the user-friendly interface ensures that even those new to telescopes can easily get started.
16. Celestron NexStar 130SLT Computerized Telescope
- Aperture: 130mm
- Focal length: 650mm
- What we like: Compact and portable, easy alignment, suitable for beginners
- What we don’t like: May require additional accessories for advanced observation
The Celestron NexStar 130SLT is a compact and portable computerized reflector telescope. Its 130mm aperture and 650mm focal length offer bright and sharp images of celestial objects.
SkyAlign technology ensures easy alignment and navigation, while the sturdy construction ensures durability.
Suited for beginners to intermediate users, this telescope offers an excellent entry point for those looking to explore astronomy with the convenience of automatic tracking.
Read the full review: Celestron NexStar 130 SLT Review (Read Before Purchase!)
17. Sky-Watcher Skymax 127 SynScan AZ GoTo Telescope
- Aperture: 127mm
- Focal length: 1500mm
- What we like: Excellent for lunar and planetary viewing, sizable database
- What we don’t like: Requires power supply, not the best for deep-sky viewing
The Sky-Watcher Skymax 127 SynScan AZ is a computerized Maksutov-Cassegrain telescope that excels at providing high-quality views of the Moon and planets.
Its 127mm aperture and long focal length combine to produce detailed, contrast-rich views of lunar craters and planetary surfaces.
The SynScan AZ GoTo mount makes navigating the night sky a breeze. You’re never short of targets with a database of over 42,900 celestial objects.
The telescope can automatically locate and track these objects, allowing you to focus on enjoying the view.
On the downside, this model requires an external power supply, which can be inconvenient for those who wish to observe from remote locations.
Also, although it excels at lunar and planetary viewing, it’s not the best choice for viewing fainter, distant galaxies and nebulae due to its limited aperture size.
Read the complete review: Sky-Watcher Skymax 127 Telescope Review (Before Purchase!)
18. Celestron NexStar 90SLT Computerized Telescope
- Aperture: 90mm
- Focal length: 1250mm
- What we like: Easy alignment process, portable design, computerized tracking
- What we don’t like: Limited aperture for deep sky observation
The Celestron NexStar 90SLT is an ideal choice for those venturing into the world of computerized telescopes. A 90mm aperture offers bright and clear views of the Moon, planets, and some brighter deep-sky objects.
The StarPointer finderscope helps with alignment and locating objects effortlessly.
This telescope’s SkyAlign technology simplifies the alignment process, making it friendly for beginners.
Its computerized mount can automatically track celestial objects, keeping them in view as they move across the sky.
Portable and lightweight, it’s a convenient option for on-the-go stargazing.
While the 90SLT is a robust option for planetary viewing, its limited aperture may not provide detailed views of fainter deep-sky objects.
19. Celestron NexStar 5SE Telescope
- Aperture: 5 inches
- Focal length: 1250mm
- What we like: Portable, high-quality Maksutov-Cassegrain optics, SkyAlign technology
- What we don’t like: Short battery life, higher cost
The Celestron NexStar 5SE offers a 5-inch aperture and 1250mm focal length, providing detailed images of celestial objects. It’s a Maksutov-Cassegrain telescope, perfect for planetary and lunar viewing but also capable of viewing brighter deep-space objects.
It features Celestron’s innovative SkyAlign technology for easy setup and automatic tracking of celestial objects.
However, its battery life could be better, and the cost is higher compared to other models with similar specifications.
Read the full review here: Celestron NexStar 5SE Telescope
20. iOptron 9803B-A SmartStar-N114 GPS Computerized Telescope
- Aperture: 114mm
- Focal length: 1000mm
- What we like: GPS enabled, lightweight and portable, easy to set up
- What we don’t like: Smaller aperture, requires power
The iOptron 9803B-A SmartStar-N114 is a GPS-enabled computerized telescope that stands out for its portability and user-friendly setup. It offers a respectable 114mm aperture and 1000mm focal length, suitable for viewing bright solar system objects and some deep-sky objects.
The computerized system, equipped with GPS, can automatically track over 50,000 celestial objects.
However, its smaller aperture might limit the visibility of fainter deep-space objects, and like many computerized telescopes, it requires a power source to operate the tracking feature.
21. Celestron NexStar 102SLT Computerized Telescope
- Aperture: 102mm
- Focal length: 660mm
- What we like: Quick setup, good for beginners
- What we don’t like: May need additional accessories for best performance
The Celestron NexStar 102SLT offers a step up in aperture, providing brighter and more detailed views. Its 102mm aperture and 660mm focal length offer a satisfying balance between magnification and field of view.
Featuring Celestron’s intuitive SkyAlign technology, alignment is fast and straightforward, even for complete beginners. Once aligned, the computerized tracking system will automatically follow the selected objects as they move across the sky.
This telescope is designed for those who want to enjoy both planetary and deep-sky observing without breaking the bank.
The 102SLT is lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry to dark sky locations.
While suitable for many observing needs, you may wish to invest in additional eyepieces or accessories to enhance the viewing experience with the 102SLT further.
Its blend of features and price point makes it an attractive option for novice astronomers and those looking for a portable and functional telescope.
22. Meade Instruments StarNavigator NG 130mm Reflecting Telescope
- Aperture:130mm
- Focal length: 1000mm
- What we like: Computerized GoTo system, wide aperture, good for deep-sky objects
- What we don’t like: Requires external power, assembly can be complex
The Meade StarNavigator NG 130mm is a reflecting telescope equipped with a computerized GoTo system. This feature allows the telescope to automatically locate and track thousands of celestial objects with just a few button presses.
The 130mm aperture offers bright and detailed views of both the solar system and deep-sky objects, making it a versatile choice.
However, the GoTo system requires an external power supply, which can limit its portability.
23. Celestron NexStar 4SE Telescope
- Aperture: 4 inches
- Focal length: 1325mm
- What we like: Compact and portable, Maksutov-Cassegrain optics
- What we don’t like: Limited deep space observation, short battery life
The Celestron NexStar 4SE Telescope, with a 4-inch aperture and long 1325mm focal length, is great for observing bright solar system objects in detail.
As a Maksutov-Cassegrain telescope, it’s compact and perfect for those who are always on the go.
The telescope features Celestron’s SkyAlign technology for easy setup and automatic tracking of celestial objects.
Its smaller aperture, however, limits the observation of faint deep space objects. Battery life is also a common concern among users.
For more about this telescope, read the detailed review: Celestron NexStar 4SE Review (Read Before Purchasing)
24. Celestron NexStar 127SLT Telescope
- Aperture: 127mm
- Focal length: 1500mm
- What we like: Compact design, Maksutov-Cassegrain optics
- What we don’t like: Requires power source, occasional alignment issues
The Celestron NexStar 127SLT is a Maksutov-Cassegrain telescope, perfect for observing brighter celestial objects in detail. It delivers impressive views with a 127mm aperture and a long 1500mm focal length.
It’s compact and features Celestron’s SkyAlign technology, allowing for automatic tracking of celestial objects.
However, it requires a power source to operate, and users have reported occasional alignment issues.
25. Celestron NexStar Evolution 9.25 Telescope
- Aperture: 9.25 inches
- Focal length: 2350mm
- What we like: High resolution, built-in WiFi, rechargeable battery
- What we don’t like: High price point, heavy
The Celestron NexStar Evolution 9.25 is a Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope with a large 9.25-inch aperture and long 2350mm focal length.
This model is known for its high-resolution views of celestial objects. It features a computerized mount with GoTo functionality for automatic tracking.
It also has built-in WiFi to control your telescope using the free Celestron SkyPortal app.
Its rechargeable battery allows for up to 10 hours of continuous observation.
However, all these features come with a high price tag, and the telescope itself is quite heavy, making it less portable.
26. Celestron CPC 1100 GPS XLT Computerized Telescope
- Aperture: 11 inches
- Focal length: 2800mm
- What we like: High-quality optics, GPS, automatic tracking
- What we don’t like: Heavy, requires a power source, high price point
The Celestron CPC 1100 GPS XLT is a high-end Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope with an 11-inch aperture and 2800mm focal length. With high-quality optics, it delivers exceptional views of celestial objects.
It features GPS for accurate alignment and automatic tracking, making locating and observing objects in the night sky easier.
However, it is heavy and requires a power source, which may limit its portability. It also comes with a high price tag, making it less accessible for some users.
Read the full review: Celestron CPC 1100 Telescope Review (Read This First!)
27. Orion SkyQuest XT10g Computerized GoTo Dobsonian Telescope
- Aperture: 10 inches
- Focal length: 1200mm
- What we like: Large aperture, extensive database, GoTo tracking
- What we don’t like: Bulky and heavy
Orion’s SkyQuest XT10g offers a perfect balance of large aperture and computerized convenience, making it an outstanding telescope for both beginners and advanced astronomers.
With a 10″ aperture, the telescope provides bright and detailed views of the Moon, planets, and deep-sky objects.
The GoTo system, with its automatic tracking of over 42,000 celestial objects, adds incredible ease of use.
While it’s an excellent performer, its size and weight make it slightly difficult to transport.
28. Celestron CPC 800 XLT Computerized Telescope
- Aperture: 8 inches
- Focal length: 2032mm
- What we like: Sturdy build, GPS alignment, excellent optics
- What we don’t like: High price, heavy
The Celestron CPC 800 XLT offers top-of-the-line features that make it suitable for both serious amateurs and professionals. Its 8″ aperture and high-quality optics ensure sharp and bright images of celestial bodies.
The built-in GPS and computerized tracking system provide an unrivaled convenience in locating and following objects.
The robust build ensures stability and longevity but comes at the cost of being heavy and pricey.
Its advanced features like SkyAlign technology, NexRemote control, and ergonomic design make it a telescope that can keep you engaged for years.
Read the complete review: Celestron CPC 800 Telescope Review (Before Purchasing)
29. Orion StarSeeker IV 127mm GoTo Mak-Cass Telescope Kit
- Aperture: 127mm
- Focal length: 1540mm
- What we like: Compact design, motorized tracking, beginner-friendly
- What we don’t like: Limited aperture for deep-sky observation
Orion’s StarSeeker IV 127mm combines a convenient Mak-Cass design with a GoTo system that’s friendly for beginners. Its 5″ aperture and 1540mm focal length offer pleasing views of planets and bright deep-sky objects.
The compact design and lightweight make it easy to transport, and the motorized mount ensures you spend less time hunting objects and more time enjoying the sky.
While the aperture may not be ideal for detailed deep-sky observation, it’s a perfect entry-level telescope for those looking to explore astronomy with automatic tracking. Its affordability and simplicity make it a strong option for those starting in the hobby.
30. Orion StarSeeker IV 80mm GoTo Refractor Telescope Kit
- Aperture: 80mm
- Focal length: 400mm
- What we like: Portable, GoTo tracking, beginner-friendly
- What we don’t like: Limited aperture for deep-sky viewing
Orion’s StarSeeker IV 80mm GoTo Refractor is an excellent entry-level telescope that offers automatic tracking of celestial objects. Its 80mm aperture and 400mm focal length provide pleasing views of the Moon, planets, and brighter deep-sky objects.
The computerized GoTo system, with over 42,000 objects in its database, makes locating and tracking objects simple.
The lightweight and compact design makes it an excellent travel companion for stargazing trips.
While the aperture might not be sufficient for detailed observation of fainter objects, it’s an ideal choice for those beginning their astronomy journey, offering automated tracking at a reasonable price.
31. Meade LX600-ACF 12″ f/8 Go-To Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope
- Aperture: 12 inches
- Focal length: 2438mm
- What we like: Advanced Coma-Free optics, large aperture, precision tracking
- What we don’t like: High price, bulky
Meade’s LX600-ACF 12″ is a powerhouse telescope designed for professionals and serious amateurs. The impressive 12″ aperture and Advanced Coma-Free optics provide stunningly clear and detailed views of the universe.
The f/8 Go-To tracking system ensures precise alignment and seamless following of celestial objects.
Its StarLock system automatically aligns and guides, making setup and use relatively straightforward despite its advanced capabilities.
While it offers top-notch performance, it is heavy and comes with a steep price tag.
If you’re looking for high-quality optics and state-of-the-art tracking, the LX600-ACF 12″ is a superb choice but might be overkill for beginners.
32. Celestron SkyProdigy 6 Computerized Telescope
- Aperture: 6 inches
- Focal length: 1500mm
- What we like: Fully automated alignment, good aperture size, user-friendly
- What we don’t like: Higher price range for beginners
Celestron’s SkyProdigy 6 brings a combination of a good-sized aperture with fully automated alignment and tracking. With a 6″ aperture, this telescope offers bright and clear images of the Moon, planets, and many deep-sky objects.
Its computerized system not only finds and tracks objects but automatically aligns itself with the night sky, making it exceptionally user-friendly.
The included database contains thousands of objects, providing endless exploration opportunities.
While the SkyProdigy 6 is not the most budget-friendly beginner option, it offers advanced features that make it appealing for those willing to invest in an intuitive and capable telescope.
33. Orion StarSeeker IV 150mm
- Aperture: 150mm
- Focal length: 750mm
- What we like: Great for beginners, substantial aperture, motorized tracking
- What we don’t like: Not suitable for advanced astrophotography
The Orion StarSeeker IV 150mm offers a substantial aperture at an approachable price, making it an appealing option for beginners and intermediate users.
The 150mm aperture and 750mm focal length provide impressive views of both planetary and deep-sky objects.
The motorized GoTo tracking system simplifies the process of locating and observing over 42,000 celestial objects.
Though not equipped for advanced astrophotography, it provides great visual observation capabilities.
Its combination of affordability, user-friendliness, and performance makes it an attractive option for those looking for an entry into computerized stargazing without breaking the bank.
34. Celestron SkyProdigy 70 Computerized Telescope
- Aperture: 70mm
- Focal length: 700mm
- What we like: Fully automated setup, compact design, beginner-friendly
- What we don’t like: Limited aperture for deep-sky viewing
The Celestron SkyProdigy 70 is designed with beginners in mind, offering a fully automated experience that demystifies the process of finding and tracking celestial objects.
Its 70mm aperture and 700mm focal length are sufficient for observing the Moon, planets, and some bright deep-sky objects.
The SkyProdigy series is known for its automatic alignment technology, allowing users to set up and observe the night sky with minimal effort.
Though it may not satisfy the needs of advanced astronomers due to its limited aperture, the SkyProdigy 70 is a fantastic starter telescope for those eager to explore the universe without grappling with complex setups and alignments.
35. Celestron CPC 925 StarBright XLT GPS Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope
- Aperture: 235mm
- Focal length: 2350mm
- What we like: StarBright XLT coating, GPS alignment, strong tripod
- What we don’t like: Heavy and expensive
The Celestron CPC 925 StarBright XLT is a top-of-the-line Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope designed for serious amateurs and semi-professionals.
Its 235mm aperture and 2350mm focal length, combined with the StarBright XLT optical coating, provide sharp, bright images of a wide variety of celestial objects.
The integrated GPS system offers seamless alignment, and the computerized tracking system allows effortless observation.
The sturdy tripod and tube add to the overall stability, ensuring smooth tracking.
However, the weight and cost might make it less suitable for beginners or those on a tight budget.
Still, if you are looking for a high-quality telescope with excellent optics and advanced tracking, the CPC 925 is worth considering.
36. Meade ETX-80 Observer Telescope
- Aperture: 80mm
- Focal length: 400mm
- What we like: Portable design, beginner-friendly, includes tripod and backpack
- What we don’t like: Limited aperture for deep-sky objects
The Meade ETX-80 Observer is designed with the beginner in mind, offering an affordable entry into the world of astronomy. With an 80mm aperture and 400mm focal length, it provides decent views of the Moon, planets, and some brighter deep-sky objects.
The package includes a tripod and backpack, making it a convenient choice for on-the-go observations.
Its GoTo tracking system and automated alignment make it simple to locate and follow objects across the sky.
Though not suitable for more advanced deep-sky viewing due to its limited aperture, the ETX-80 Observer is an excellent starting point for newcomers, providing an easy-to-use platform to explore the sky.
37. Vaonis Vespera Observation Station
- Aperture: 50mm
- Focal length: 200mm
- What we like: Innovative design, compact, app-controlled
- What we don’t like: Limited aperture, high price for its class
Vaonis’s Vespera Observation Station is a truly innovative piece of equipment that combines the functionalities of a telescope with the connectivity of a modern smart device.
The compact 50mm aperture and 200mm focal length are controlled via a mobile app, making it an accessible and interactive experience.
The design emphasizes portability and user-friendliness, with automatic tracking and alignment powered by the Vaonis app.
Though its small aperture limits its capabilities for observing faint deep-sky objects, it provides a novel approach to casual stargazing and astrophotography.
The price might be steep for its class, but the Vespera offers a unique and futuristic experience for those interested in a tech-savvy approach to astronomy.
Read also: Which is Better: Vespera or Stellina? (Before Purchasing)
Takeaway: Enjoy the sights of celestial objects with the best telescopes with automatic tracking
Automatic telescopes, with their computerized tracking systems, have made stargazing more accessible, enjoyable, and productive for amateurs and professionals alike.
These telescopes seamlessly align themselves with celestial objects and follow their paths across the sky, providing users with uninterrupted and precise observation.
The integration of advanced optics, user-friendly interfaces, GPS alignment, and other innovative features have bridged the gap between complex astronomical tools and everyday enthusiasts.
To sum up, choosing the right telescope boils down to your personal needs, interests, and budget. Remember, the perfect telescope is one that not only fits your budget but also inspires you to go out under the stars night after night.
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