StarSense AutoAlign Review (Read This First!)

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StarSense AutoAlign is an innovative and advanced alignment system designed to simplify the process of setting up and aligning your telescope for celestial observations. 

It takes the guesswork out of aligning your telescope, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the wonders of the night sky. 

In this review, we will delve into the features, performance, and overall user experience of StarSense AutoAlign, providing you with valuable insights to consider before making your next telescope alignment purchase.

Celestron StarSense AutoAlign: Brief overview

The Celestron StarSense AutoAlign is an innovative accessory designed for Celestron computerized telescopes, aiming to simplify and streamline the often lengthy alignment process typically involved in amateur astronomy. 

This accessory employs a small digital camera that automatically captures images of the night sky and identifies stars to align the telescope accurately. 

The StarSense AutoAlign greatly enhances the accuracy of GoTo pointing and tracking, significantly reducing the setup time.

The Celestron StarSense AutoAlign provides many benefits, including automatic alignment, accurate polar alignment, and compatibility with a wide range of Celestron telescopes.

Its advanced mount modeling improves the precision of GoTo functions, making it an attractive addition for both novice stargazers and advanced telescope users. 

However, it may pose some challenges for beginners due to the complexity of the initial setup, and the cost might be a limitation for some users.

Why should you use the Celestron StarSense AutoAlign?

The Celestron StarSense AutoAlign can revolutionize your stargazing experience. One of the primary benefits of this accessory is the automatic alignment feature. 

Instead of manually aligning your telescope to the stars in the night sky – a task that can be particularly challenging for beginners – the StarSense AutoAlign does this job for you.

In addition, the StarSense AutoAlign provides extremely precise GoTo pointing. Once your telescope is aligned, the StarSense hand control allows you to select any celestial object from its database, and your telescope will automatically move to that object and track it as it moves across the sky.

The StarSense AutoAlign also offers advanced mount modeling, improving tracking accuracy and enhancing your overall observing experience.

Does the Celestron StarSense AutoAlign work with any telescope?

The Celestron StarSense AutoAlign is a sophisticated device designed to make astronomy more accessible and enjoyable. However, it’s crucial to note that it doesn’t work with just any telescope. 

It is primarily compatible with Celestron computerized telescopes. It’s not universally adaptable due to the specific technology and connections it uses.

Prior to the introduction of StarSense, a computerized telescope required a time-consuming alignment procedure that entailed locating and accurately centering a minimum of two bright stars within the telescope’s eyepiece.

What Celestron computerized telescope mounts are compatible with StarSense AutoAlign?

The StarSense AutoAlign is designed to work seamlessly with a broad range of Celestron computerized telescope models. 

While the Celestron StarSense AutoAlign is a powerful accessory for astrophotography, its compatibility mainly depends on the type of mount rather than the telescope itself. 

It’s designed to work with a variety of Celestron computerized mounts, making the setup process easier and observations more accurate. 

Let’s explore some of these models:

Celestron Advanced VX Computerized Mount

Celestron Advanced VX Computerized Mount is compatible with the StarSense AutoAlign system. This mount is designed for intermediate-level astronomers and offers a sturdy platform for astrophotography and visual observing. 

With a payload capacity of up to 30 pounds, the Advanced VX mount provides stability for a wide range of telescopes. 

When combined with the StarSense AutoAlign, the Advanced VX mount ensures accurate alignment and tracking, allowing users to navigate the night sky and capture stunning celestial images effortlessly.

Celestron CGX-L Equatorial Mount with Tripod

Celestron CGX-L Equatorial Mount with Tripod is a heavy-duty equatorial mount that provides exceptional stability and precision for advanced astrophotography and observation. 

With its robust construction and payload capacity of up to 75 pounds, the CGX-L mount can handle larger telescopes and imaging setups.

When paired with the StarSense AutoAlign system, the CGX-L mount offers seamless and accurate alignment, making it an excellent choice for experienced astronomers who demand reliable performance and tracking capabilities.

Astro Fi Mount

The Astro Fi mount, found in the Astro Fi telescope series, is compatible with the StarSense AutoAlign system, offering a user-friendly experience. 

It features a single-arm alt-azimuth design, providing smooth and intuitive movement. The Astro Fi mount is ideal for visual observations and enables hassle-free alignment and navigation with the StarSense AutoAlign. 

It can be found in the following three models:

CPC Mount

The CPC mounts, which mostly come bundled with the CPC telescope series, are compatible with the StarSense AutoAlign system, providing users with the convenience of automated alignment. 

These mounts feature a robust alt-azimuth design with dual fork arms, ensuring stability and ease of use. 

The CPC mounts are well-suited for various applications, including visual observation and astrophotography. 

When combined with the StarSense AutoAlign system, they offer precise alignment and tracking capabilities, simplifying the process of exploring and capturing the wonders of the night sky.

The CPC telescope series includes the following models:

  • Celestron CPC 800 XLT Computerized Telescope: This is a high-quality telescope designed for both amateur and experienced astronomers. It features a sturdy and stable mount, ensuring smooth and accurate movements during observations.

Read the detailed review: Celestron CPC 800 Telescope Review (Before Purchasing)

  • Celestron CPC Deluxe 800 HD 8-inch: This is an upgraded version of the CPC 800 XLT. It features high-definition (HD) optics that deliver even sharper and more detailed views of the night sky. 
  • Celestron CPC 925 StarBright XLT: With a larger 9.25-inch aperture, the CPC 925 offers enhanced light-gathering power for even more detailed and captivating views.
  • Celestron CPC 1100 StarBright XLT: The CPC 1100 is the flagship model of the CPC series, boasting an impressive 11-inch aperture. This large aperture telescope allows for remarkable views of celestial objects. 

CG-5 Computerized Mount

The StarSense AutoAlign system is compatible with the CG-5 mount when used with the CG-5 Aux. splitter. The CG-5 mount is known for its versatility and is popular among astronomers for visual observation and astrophotography. 

The CG-5 mount, coupled with the StarSense AutoAlign system, offers a reliable and efficient setup for both beginners and experienced astronomers.

NexStar Evolution Mount

The NexStar Evolution mount is compatible with the StarSense AutoAlign system, enhancing its usability and convenience. This wireless mount is specifically designed to offer seamless control of your telescope through a smartphone or tablet. 

Its alt-azimuth design and built-in battery provide portability and versatility for various observing needs, including visual observation and astrophotography. 

Incorporating the StarSense AutoAlign into the NexStar Evolution mount simplifies the alignment process, allowing you to spend more time immersing yourself in the wonders of the night sky.

The NexStar Evolution mount is featured in the following telescope models:

  • Celestron NexStar Evolution 6: This model features a 6-inch aperture and is compact and portable, making it ideal for on-the-go observations and astrophotography.
  • Celestron NexStar Evolution 8: With an 8-inch aperture, this model provides increased light-gathering capabilities for more detailed and captivating views of celestial objects.
  • Celestron NexStar Evolution 9.25: This model has a larger 9.25-inch aperture, delivering impressive image quality and allowing for enhanced observations of various astronomical targets.

NexStar SE Mount

The StarSense AutoAlign system is compatible with the NexStar SE Series telescopes, which come with an integrated mount. The NexStar SE mount features a single-arm alt-azimuth design, offering portability and ease of setup. 

The StarSense AutoAlign system further enhances the usability of the NexStar SE mount, ensuring accurate alignment and simplifying the setup process. 

When you purchase a NexStar SE telescope, you will receive the telescope and mount together as a package, providing a complete and convenient stargazing solution.

The NexStar SE Series includes the following telescope models:

  • Celestron NexStar 5SE Telescope: With a 5-inch aperture, this telescope offers increased light-gathering power and is suitable for observing a wide range of celestial objects.
  • Celestron NexStar 6SE Telescope: Featuring a 6-inch aperture, this telescope provides enhanced views of celestial targets, including planets, star clusters, and nebulae.
  • Celestron NexStar 8SE Telescope: The NexStar 8SE boasts an 8-inch aperture, allowing for even brighter and more detailed views of various astronomical objects.

Read the detailed reviews here:

NexStar SLT Mount

The NexStar SLT mount, available as part of the complete NexStar SLT telescope series, is compatible with the StarSense AutoAlign system. This combination offers users a convenient and user-friendly alignment solution. 

Designed with beginners and portability in mind, the NexStar SLT mount features a compact and lightweight design. 

Its computerized tracking and GoTo functionality enable effortless navigation and tracking of celestial objects. 

The NexStar SLT telescope series includes several popular models, such as:

  • Celestron NexStar 90 SLT: With a 90mm aperture and a compact Maksutov-Cassegrain optical design, this telescope offers excellent portability and versatility for both celestial and terrestrial observations.
  • Celestron NexStar 102 SLT: This telescope combines a 102mm aperture with an achromatic refractor optical design, delivering clear and sharp views of the Moon, planets, and other celestial targets.
  • Celestron NexStar 127SLT: Featuring a 127mm aperture and a Maksutov-Cassegrain optical design, this telescope offers excellent performance and portability. Its compact design makes it ideal for observing the Moon, planets, and deep-sky objects.
  • Celestron NexStar 130 SLT: This model features a 130mm aperture and a Newtonian reflector optical design. It provides impressive light-gathering capabilities for observing various celestial objects.

Read the complete review: Celestron NexStar 130 SLT Review (Read Before Purchase!)

SkyProdigy Mount

The SkyProdigy mount, compatible with the StarSense AutoAlign system, is renowned for its automatic alignment capabilities. This mount features a sophisticated computerized alignment system that identifies celestial objects and aligns the telescope accordingly. 

The SkyProdigy mount is designed with simplicity in mind, making it an excellent option for beginners and those new to astronomy.

The SkyProdigy telescope series includes a range of models, each featuring the innovative SkyProdigy mount. 

They are as follows:

  • Celestron SkyProdigy 70: This model offers a 70mm aperture, making it ideal for observing the Moon, planets, and bright deep-sky objects. Its compact size and lightweight design ensure easy portability.
  • Celestron SkyProdigy 6: Featuring a larger 150mm aperture, the SkyProdigy 6 offers enhanced light-gathering power, allowing for impressive views of a wide range of celestial objects.
  • Celestron SkyProdigy 130: The SkyProdigy 130 has an aperture of 130mm, allowing for even greater light collection and enabling observations of fainter deep-sky objects. 

Celestron CGX Computerized German Equatorial Mount and Tripod

The Celestron CGX Computerized German Equatorial Mount and Tripod is a robust and innovative platform designed for serious astronomers. 

This high-performance mount is engineered with a maximum load capacity of 55 lbs, ensuring it can comfortably accommodate a wide range of telescope sizes. 

It is equipped with advanced features such as a dual-fit dovetail saddle, USB 2.0 ports for direct connections to your computer, and innovative software solutions for superior motor control. 

The mount’s ergonomic design ensures easy setup and handling, while the tripod provides a stable base for precision observations. 

How does the Celestron StarSense AutoAlign work?

The Celestron StarSense AutoAlign is a revolutionary device that changes the game for telescope users. It replaces your traditional finderscope with a compact digital camera. 

Along with the included StarSense hand control, equipped with a database of over 40,000 celestial objects, the device identifies stars in the night sky to calculate your telescope’s current position automatically.

In the past, aligning a computerized telescope was a lengthy process requiring the user to find and center at least two bright stars in the telescope’s eyepiece. 

The StarSense AutoAlign simplifies this process significantly. You only need to input the time, date, and location. 

StarSense will take care of the rest, providing an extremely precise GoTo pointing and advanced mount modeling for accurate celestial observations.

Celestron StarSense AutoAlign setup

To set up the Celestron StarSense AutoAlign, do the following:

Attach the StarSense Camera to your telescope 

Begin with attaching the StarSense Camera to your telescope. Depending on your telescope model, select one of the provided mounting brackets. 

The mount should be securely fastened to ensure the camera stays in place during your observations. Make sure the camera is fitted firmly, but avoid overtightening.

Install the StarSense hand control

Replace your existing NexStar hand control with the new StarSense hand control. This hand control is what communicates with the StarSense Camera and conducts the automatic alignment. 

Ensure the hand control is connected properly to facilitate optimal communication.

Activate your telescope

Once you have correctly installed the camera and hand control, it’s time to power on your telescope. 

Ensure your telescope’s batteries are charged, or it’s connected to a reliable power source to prevent any disruptions during the alignment process.

Enter your details

On the StarSense hand control, you’ll need to input your current date, time, and location. This is a crucial step as the accuracy of these details directly impacts the precision of your star alignment. 

Be sure to enter this data carefully. If you’re unsure of your exact location coordinates, there are many free online tools and apps that can assist you.

Now the magic begins! The StarSense Camera will automatically start capturing a series of images of the sky. Once the images are taken, StarSense begins its automatic alignment process, identifying and matching the stars captured in the images to its database. 

During this process, try to avoid any significant movements of the telescope to ensure the alignment is as accurate as possible. 

Enjoy the process as StarSense makes your stargazing experience effortless and more enjoyable.

Can the Celestron StarSense AutoAlign be used for autoguide?

While the StarSense AutoAlign greatly enhances the alignment process, it’s not designed for autoguiding. For autoguiding purposes, a separate autoguiding camera and software are typically needed.

Can StarSense AutoAlign be used with different eyepieces or filters?

The StarSense AutoAlign is designed to work with your telescope and mount. It doesn’t directly interact with eyepieces or filters. Therefore, you can use different eyepieces or filters with your telescope while using the StarSense AutoAlign.

How does StarSense AutoAlign perform in light-polluted areas?

StarSense AutoAlign demonstrates commendable performance even in light-polluted areas. The advanced technology of StarSense AutoAlign allows the system to accurately align the telescope by referencing bright stars, irrespective of light pollution. 

This capability makes the StarSense AutoAlign system a reliable and effective tool for astronomers and stargazers who often find themselves observing from light-polluted urban environments.

Is the Celestron StarSense AutoAlign worth it?

The Celestron StarSense AutoAlign is a valuable accessory for any stargazing enthusiast. It eliminates the need for traditional manual alignment processes, instead using its advanced technology to perform an automatic alignment. 

This saves time and makes the observing session more enjoyable, especially for beginners who might find manual alignment challenging.

Furthermore, with its impressive accuracy, the StarSense AutoAlign enhances your celestial observations, making locating and tracking objects in the night sky easier. 

However, as with any product, it does come with its pros and cons.

Pros of the Celestron StarSense AutoAlign

The Celestron StarSense AutoAlign offers a range of benefits that enhance the observing experience for astronomers including:

Automatic alignment with Celestron computerized telescopes

The Celestron StarSense AutoAlign comes with the significant advantage of enabling automatic alignment with a wide range of Celestron computerized telescopes. 

This compatibility extends across various models, making it a highly adaptable tool for any Celestron telescope user. 

It removes the often daunting task of manual alignment by automating the alignment process, providing a more effortless and efficient stargazing experience.

Advanced mount modeling

The StarSense AutoAlign offers advanced mount modeling capabilities. It can align on numerous stars scattered across the sky, resulting in incredibly precise GoTo pointing accuracy. 

This ensures that your telescope will accurately track your selected celestial objects, enhancing your overall observational experience and the quality of any astrophotography you may wish to undertake.

Easy setup

Setting up the StarSense AutoAlign is straightforward. You simply attach the camera to your telescope, replace the hand control with the StarSense one, and the device will take care of the rest.

No star identification required

With StarSense AutoAlign, there is no need for you to manually identify or locate any stars in the sky, which can often be a challenge, especially for beginners. 

The device uses its advanced technology to automatically align your telescope, allowing you to commence your observation session in mere minutes. 

This feature significantly enhances the accessibility and convenience of using your telescope, making astronomy more enjoyable.

Rapid alignment

In terms of speed, the StarSense AutoAlign impresses with its swift alignment process. It typically completes the alignment in three minutes or less, minimizing your waiting time and allowing you to quickly dive into your observations. 

This rapid performance is a definite plus for those eager to start their celestial exploration without delay.

Cons of the Celestron StarSense AutoAlign

While the Celestron StarSense AutoAlign system provides numerous advantages, there are a few drawbacks to consider:

Relatively high price

The StarSense AutoAlign is relatively costly, which might be a deterrent for some users, especially those on a tight budget or beginners who are not yet fully invested in the hobby.

Compatibility only with specific Celestron mounts

The StarSense AutoAlign system is designed to be compatible with specific Celestron telescope mounts. Users with non-compatible mounts may not be able to benefit from the automated alignment capabilities of the system.

Does Celestron StarSense AutoAlign work with other mount brands?

The Celestron StarSense AutoAlign is primarily designed to work with Celestron mounts. However, it can also function with select models from other brands such as Skywatcher.

Celestron StarSense AutoAlign for Skywatcher mounts

Celestron has expanded the StarSense AutoAlign’s compatibility to include certain SkyWatcher mounts. It works with most SkyWatcher GoTo mounts, including:

Features of the Celestron StarSense AutoAlign

The Celestron StarSense AutoAlign system has several features that enhance the convenience and accuracy of telescope alignment, such as:

Built-in camera

The StarSense AutoAlign features a small digital camera that replaces your traditional finderscope. The camera houses an Aptina MT9M034 imaging sensor with 1.2 megapixels. 

The sensor features a pixel array of 1280 x 960, and each pixel measures 3.75μm x 3.75μm. 

StarSense hand controller

The package comes with a StarSense hand controller, an essential tool for the operation of the StarSense AutoAlign. This controller houses a database of over 40,000 celestial objects and orchestrates the alignment process, serving as the primary user interface. 

Automatic alignment

StarSense AutoAlign provides an automatic alignment process that accurately calculates your telescope’s position by identifying stars in its captured images. This feature enables precise GoTo pointing and advanced mount modeling.

32-bit processor control board

At the heart of the StarSense AutoAlign is a 32-bit processor control board that runs on an embedded Linux Operating System. This robust control system ensures smooth and reliable operation, managing the alignment process and coordinating with the hand controller.

USB 2.0 port

For connectivity, the StarSense AutoAlign features a USB 2.0 port, facilitating the transfer of data and software updates. 

The device also sports an auxiliary port that serves to connect the StarSense AutoAlign to Celestron telescopes, ensuring seamless integration and communication between the devices.

FAQs about StarSense AutoAlign

Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions: 

How long does the alignment process take with Celestron StarSense AutoAlign?

With the Celestron StarSense AutoAlign, the alignment process can be completed in three minutes or less. It’s a notable advantage over traditional alignment methods, which can be a lengthy process requiring manual input and a fair amount of stargazing experience.

StarSense AutoAlign makes the setup process easy, efficient, and beginner-friendly.

Is there any special maintenance required for Celestron StarSense AutoAlign?

The Celestron StarSense AutoAlign is designed for user-friendliness and does not require any special maintenance. It is recommended, however, to keep the device clean and protect it from dust and moisture. 

If you’re storing the device for a prolonged period, it would be best to store it in a cool and dry place.

Is there a Celestron starsense autoalign alternative?

Currently, there is no commercially available alternative to the Celestron StarSense AutoAlign system specifically designed for your mount. 

While there are other options like AstroTortilla available, they do not offer the same level of self-contained and packaged convenience as the StarSense system.

Takeaway: Celestron StarSense AutoAlign helps you navigate the night sky with ease

The Celestron StarSense AutoAlign is a compelling accessory for Celestron computerized telescopes. It streamlines the alignment process, enabling users to start observing in minutes with minimal input required. 

Its compatibility with numerous Celestron mounts and some Skywatcher mounts enhances its versatility, making it a worthy investment for stargazing enthusiasts of all skill levels.

The device also has advanced mount modeling, which allows for extremely precise GoTo pointing accuracy. 

The Celestron mount ensures precise tracking and accurate positioning of celestial objects.

The StarSense hand controller enhances the accuracy of alignment and navigation.

With the StarSense AutoAlign, you can effortlessly navigate the night sky and enrich your astronomical explorations.

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Lorea Lastiri

Lorea is a nature and travel enthusiast constantly seeking out new adventures and immersing herself in the beauty of nature. Her passion for travel and her love of the outdoors have led her to some of the most remote corners of the globe, where she has discovered new cultures, met new people, and experienced the wonders of the natural world firsthand.