Celestron StarSense Explorer 12" f/4.9 Dobsonian Telescope

Guided by a user-friendly smartphone app, you'll enjoy beautiful views of planets, nebulae, galaxies, star clusters, and more with the StarSense Explorer 12" f/4.9 Dobsonian Telescope from Celestron. Suited to both serious beginners and advanced observers, the large-aperture reflector telescope gathers ample light for impressively detailed observation. The StarSense app's easy interface and tutorials will have you up and running in minutes, confidently touring the night sky. The large but portable optical tube assembly and sturdy, smooth-moving alt-azimuth base provide a satisfying stargazing experience, with the capacity for more sophisticated use as your skills develop.

No need for computerized mounts, planetarium apps, and star charts�simply place your phone in the dock and launch the StarSense Explorer app. After a quick alignment, the StarSense Explorer generates a list of celestial objects currently visible. Make your selection and arrows appear on-screen, guiding you as you move the telescope.

When the object is ready to view in the eyepiece, the bullseye turns green. You have the option to listen to audio descriptions and view detailed information about thousands of objects within the app's robust database.

The StarSense Explorer uses patented technology and your smartphone to determine exactly where the telescope is pointed in the night sky. A Lost in Space Algorithm (LISA), like the ones satellites use in orbit to correctly orient themselves, helps the app match star patterns it detects overhead to its internal database.

Even if you live in a light-polluted city location, the Celestron StarSense Explorer 12" Dobsonian is advanced enough to easily pick out Jupiter, Saturn, open star clusters like the Pleiades, double stars like Alberio, the Orion nebula, Andromeda galaxy, and more of the best and brightest celestial objects. But if you can take the telescope to an even slightly darker location, more objects will become visible.

Transporting your StarSense Explorer Dobsonian is easy thanks to the ergonomic carry handles located at the balance point of the tube. Dust covers are also included for the front of the tube and the focuser.

StarSense Explorer works with most modern smartphones, including iPhone 6 and up, and most devices running Android 7.1.2 or later manufactured since 2016.

All mirror surfaces are coated with Celestron's XLT optical coatings to visibly increase contrast and light throughput for brighter views. The mirrors are made of low-expansion optical glass, which helps ensure the best images under changing environmental conditions.

The 2" Crayford focuser provides precise and smooth movements without focus shifting. It also includes a 2" to 1.25" adapter and a 2" extension tube, so you can use virtually any 1.25" or 2" telescope eyepiece with your StarSense Explorer Dobsonian. Use the thumbscrew so you can lock in the sharpest focus.

Side supports, Teflon azimuth bearings, large-diameter altitude bearings with variable tensioning and "brakes," and a panning knob combine for smooth, precise movements.

Celestron StarSense Explorer Specs

Optical Design	Dobsonian Reflector
Aperture	305 mm / 12"
Focal Length	1500 mm
Focal Ratio	f/4.9
Focuser	Crayford
Eyepiece Barrel Diameter	2" on OTA
Type	Alt-Azimuth
GoTo Capability	No
Weight	83.6 lb / 37.9 kg

Optical Design	Dobsonian Reflector
Aperture	305 mm / 12"
Focal Length	1500 mm
Focal Ratio	f/4.9
Focuser	Crayford
Eyepiece Barrel Diameter	2" on OTA
Diagonal	No
Finderscope	Yes
Mounting	No
Optical Tube Dimensions	56 x 14" / 142.2 x 35.6 cm

Type	Alt-Azimuth
GoTo Capability	No

Mobile App Compatible	Yes, Required: Android & iOS App Name: StarSense Explorer Powered by SkySafari
Weight	83.6 lb / 37.9 kg

Package Weight	118.5 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)	62 x 40 x 29.5"