Celestron 102mm Astro-Fi Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope

Description

Celestron 102mm Astro-Fi Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope 22202

The Celestron Astro-Fi 102 is a computerized alt-azimuth Maksutov-Cassegrain telescope designed for both terrestrial and celestial viewing. With fully coated glass optics, this telescope offers bright and clear images of celestial objects such as the Moon, Saturn’s rings, Jupiter’s Great Red Spot, the Orion Nebula, and the Hercules Globular Cluster. During the day, it can be used as a spotting scope with its right-side-up viewing capability.

Features

• 102mm Maksutov-Cassegrain with fully coated glass optics
• Integrated WiFi allows control via the free Celestron SkyPortal app for iPhone, iPad, and Android devices
• Quick and easy no-tool setup for fast observing
• Accessories include two eyepieces (25mm and 10mm), star diagonal, finderscope, and an integrated smartphone adapter
• Adjustable-height tripod with an accessory tray for added convenience

Maksutov-Cassegrain Optical Design

The Maksutov-Cassegrain is a catadioptric telescope that uses both a lens and a mirror. Light passes through the corrector lens, reflects off the primary mirror, and is redirected by a spherical secondary mirror before reaching the eyepiece. This design results in bright, sharp images with minimal chromatic aberration.

Instead of a separate secondary mirror, the Maksutov-Cassegrain has a reflective secondary spot applied directly to the inside of the corrector plate. This eliminates the need for frequent collimation and provides high-contrast views. However, the larger Maksutov corrector plate takes longer to adjust to ambient air temperature compared to a Schmidt-Cassegrain of the same size.

Computerized Alt-Azimuth Telescope

The Astro-Fi 102 features a computerized alt-azimuth mount, allowing smooth movement in all directions.

Integrated WiFi and Celestron SkyPortal App

The telescope emits its own WiFi connection, enabling remote control via the Celestron SkyPortal app. This app replaces the traditional hand controller, offering an intuitive experience. Simply select an object within the app, and the telescope automatically slews to the target. The app provides detailed information on celestial objects, enhancing the observing experience.

SkyAlign Technology

Celestrons SkyAlign technology simplifies the setup process. Align the telescope by centering any three bright objects in the eyepiece, and the telescope calculates its position. The system can also generate a Sky Tour, showcasing the best objects visible at your specific time and location.

Accessories Included

The Astro-Fi 102 comes with essential accessories for an enhanced viewing experience:

• Two eyepieces (25mm and 10mm) for different levels of magnification
• Star diagonal for a comfortable viewing angle with a right-side-up image
• Integrated smartphone adapter to capture images and video
• Red dot finderscope to help quickly center objects in the eyepiece

Lens Cap and Smartphone Adapter

The included lens cap also functions as a smartphone adapter, allowing users to capture images of celestial and terrestrial objects. The adapter fits eyepieces with an outside diameter of 45mm or smaller. Most smartphones can be used with the case on, though larger or bulkier cases may need to be removed for a secure fit.

Starry Night Software

The telescope includes Celestrons Starry Night software, which provides a database of celestial objects, sky maps, and enhanced 3D renderings of stars, exoplanets, and galaxies. This software is a valuable tool for learning about the night sky and planning observing sessions.