
( Brand: Celestron ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 21017 ), ( Type: Reflector )
The Celestron 21017 Refractor Telescope with CR-150 HD Six-inch Maksutov-Casagrain C mount and MoonLite Digital Controller is an excellent choice for astronomers seeking a versatile and powerful telescope for viewing celestial bodies in fine detail.
The telescope boasts a six-inch, 1500mm focal length Maksutov-Casagrain optical tube, providing a generous aperture that gathers enough light for impressive brightness and clarity. With a focal ratio of f/12.6 and a prime focus of 152mm, this telescope excels in delivering sharp and contrast-rich images.
The CR-150 HD six-inch Maksutov-Casagrain objective lens features fully multi-coated optics that significantly reduce loss of light and minimize image distortion. Additionally, it comes with a C mount for flexibility in mounting various accessories, such as cameras or other imaging equipment.
The telescope is European-built with a robust construction, ensuring durability and longevity under various weather conditions. It comes with an adjustable height tripod and a Vixen-style dovetail bar, making setup a breeze and allowing for seamless changes between observing items in the night sky.
Another unique feature of the 21017 Refractor is the inclusion of the MoonLite Digital Controller. This innovative equipment enables automation of your telescope's tracking and focusing, ensuring that even long exposure astrophotography sessions result in sharp images with minimal effort. The MoonLite Digital Controller supports systems like the NexStar GPS, SkyScan, and NexStar handset, further expanding the telescope's functionality.
In summary, the Celestron 21017 Refractor Telescope with CR-150 HD Six-inch Maksutov-Casagrain C mount and MoonLite Digital Controller offers astronomers top-notch optics, ease of use, and advanced technology for unmatched performance in observing and capturing celestial bodies.
**: Introduction**
The Celestron 21017 Refractor Telescope CR-150-HD6 Moonlite is a popular choice among amateur astronomers for its versatility, quality, and affordable price. In this analysis, we will explore both the advantages and disadvantages of this telescope to help potential buyers make an informed decision based on their individual needs and preferences.
**: Pros**
1. High-quality Optics: The Celestron 21017 Refractor Telescope features a high-quality 6-inch (150mm) achromatic objective lens, which offers a wide and bright field of view. This is ideal for observing planets, stars, and other celestial objects with remarkable clarity.
2. Sturdy Design: The telescope's sturdy steel tube design and solid mounting system ensure excellent stability and rigidity, reducing the need for frequent adjustments.
3. Versatile Setup: The telescope comes with an adjustable tripod and a 2" Crayford-style focuser that can accommodate a range of eyepieces, IR/DP filters, and other accessories.
4. Easy to Use: The Celestron 21017 Refractor Telescope is an excellent choice for beginners due to its simple setup process and user-friendly features.
5. Moonlite Accessory Kit: The Moonlite accessory kit, which includes a DC motor and Lumicon UHC filter, significantly enhances the observing experience by offering automated tracking and increased contrast for lunar and planetary observations.
**: Cons**
1. Limited Magnification: Although the telescope has a large objective lens, it offers limited magnification for deep-sky observation due to its focal length. For those interested in observing distant galaxies and nebulae, a different type of telescope might be more suitable.
2. Heavier Than Other Refractors: With a weight of approximately 27.5 lbs (12.5 kg), the Celestron 21017 is heavier than some other refractor telescopes in its class. Potential buyers should ensure that they can comfortably transport and maneuver the telescope.
3. Expensive Accessories: While the telescope itself is relatively affordable, some accessories, such as the Moonlite accessory kit and higher-end eyepieces, can be quite pricey.
**: Conclusion**
The Celestron 21017 Refractor Telescope CR-150-HD6 Moonlite is an impressive and versatile instrument for observing a wide range of celestial objects. Its outstanding optics, sturdy design, and user-friendly features make it a great choice for both beginner and advanced users. However, its weight and the cost of some accessories might be a consideration for some buyers.
**: Recommendation**
Based on the analysis above, we recommend the Celestron 21017 Refractor Telescope CR-150-HD6 Moonlite for individuals who are particularly interested in lunar, planetary, and bright deep-sky observations. It is an excellent investment for those seeking a high-quality telescope with a user-friendly setup and the option to enhance observing capabilities with the Moonlite accessory kit. However, those primarily focusing on deep-sky observations with high magnification may want to consider alternative telescope types or more extensive setups.