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EdgeHD Optics, StarSense AutoAlign and Wireless GoTo
The Celestron NexStar Evolution 8 EdgeHD combines an aplanatic flat-field 203.2mm optical system with StarSense AutoAlign, built-in Wi-Fi and the rechargeable Evolution GoTo mount. It is a versatile package for detailed visual observing, lunar and planetary imaging and progression into more advanced deep-sky astrophotography.
- 203.2mm f/10 EdgeHD flat-field, coma-corrected optical system
- StarSense AutoAlign camera and StarSense hand controller included
- Built-in Wi-Fi control through Celestron SkyPortal
- Integrated LiFePO4 battery for up to 10 hours of observing
- Fastar/HyperStar compatible for optional ultra-fast f/2 imaging
- Compatible with the dedicated optional 0.7× EdgeHD 800 reducer
Wireless Control or Included Hand Controller
The included StarSense AutoAlign camera analyses star patterns and automatically builds an alignment model, removing the need to centre several named stars manually. Once aligned, use the SkyPortal app to select objects and command the mount wirelessly. A StarSense hand controller is included for conventional operation without a phone or tablet.
The mount’s own Wi-Fi network allows normal field operation without an internet connection. Date, time and observing-location information are supplied by the connected mobile device when using the app.
Aplanatic EdgeHD Optical System
EdgeHD is Celestron’s flat-field Schmidt optical design. Internal corrective lenses reduce off-axis coma and field curvature so stars remain sharper towards the edge of a suitable camera sensor. For visual observing, the 2032mm focal length provides excellent image scale for the Moon, planets, double stars and compact deep-sky objects.
Evolution Mount and Internal Battery
The single-arm Evolution mount uses brass worm gears and DC servo motors for accurate GoTo movement and tracking. Its integrated LiFePO4 battery supports observing sessions of up to 10 hours, while manual clutches, carrying handles, four AUX ports, an illuminated accessory tray and a mobile-device USB charging output improve practical use in the field.
The battery can be charged or the telescope operated from the supplied AC adapter. Celestron recommends keeping the battery charged during storage and using the supplied charger or a suitable certified 12V DC supply rated for at least 2A.
Visual Observing and Astroimaging
At its native f/10 focal ratio, the telescope suits high-resolution lunar and planetary imaging and smaller deep-sky targets. An optional dedicated 0.7× reducer changes the system to f/7 while retaining EdgeHD correction. Removing the Fastar secondary and fitting a compatible optional HyperStar lens enables very fast wide-field imaging around f/2. Long-exposure work normally benefits from the optional equatorial wedge and a suitable imaging setup; cameras, adapters, reducer, HyperStar lens and wedge are not included.
This telescope is not a fully automated smart-imaging system: a compatible camera and all required imaging adapters must be selected separately.
Transport and Setup
The complete kit weighs 19.05kg, divided between the 6.35kg optical tube, 7kg mount head and 5.44kg tripod. The three main components separate without requiring the complete assembled system to be lifted at once.
The optical tube attaches to the mount through a CG-5-format dovetail bar. Large integrated handles on the mount and practical tripod features simplify assembly, but users should still assess lifting requirements and the route to their observing location.
What Is Included?
- 203.2mm f/10 EdgeHD optical tube
- NexStar Evolution computerised single-arm mount
- Adjustable stainless-steel tripod and accessory tray
- Integrated Wi-Fi and rechargeable LiFePO4 battery
- StarSense AutoAlign camera, coiled AUX cable and mounting hardware
- StarSense hand controller
- 40mm and 13mm Plössl eyepieces (1.25-inch)
- StarPointer Pro finderscope
- 1.25-inch visual back and star diagonal
- AC charger with US, EU, UK and AU plug fittings
- Celestron Starry Night Special Edition software and SkyPortal app
Please note: A smartphone or tablet, imaging camera, camera adapters, dew-control equipment, equatorial wedge, focal reducer and HyperStar/Fastar conversion optics are not stated as included unless specifically listed above.
Specifications
Optical Tube
| Optical design | EdgeHD |
|---|---|
| Aperture | 203.2mm (8 inches) |
| Focal length | 2032mm (80 inches) |
| Focal ratio | f/10 |
| Optical coatings | StarBright XLT |
| Included eyepiece(s) | 40mm and 13mm Plössl eyepieces (1.25-inch) |
| Included eyepiece magnification | 51× and 156× |
| Finderscope | StarPointer Pro finderscope |
| Star diagonal | 1.25-inch star diagonal |
| Highest useful magnification | 480× |
| Lowest useful magnification | 29× |
| Limiting stellar magnitude | 14 |
| Rayleigh resolution | 0.69 arcseconds |
| Dawes resolution | 0.57 arcseconds |
| Light-gathering power | 843× compared with the human eye |
| Secondary obstruction | 64mm (2.5 inches); 31% by diameter and 9.77% by area |
| Optical tube length | 432mm (17 inches) |
| Optical tube diameter | 238mm (9.37 inches) |
| Optical tube weight | 6.35kg (14lb) |
| Dovetail | CG-5 dovetail bar |
Mount, Electronics and Weight
| Mount type | Computerised altitude-azimuth single fork arm |
|---|---|
| Instrument load capacity | 11kg (25lb) |
| Height adjustment range including mount and tripod | 1193.8–1752.6mm (47–69 inches) |
| Tripod legs | 38.1mm (1.5-inch) stainless steel |
| Mount head weight | 7kg (16lb) |
| Tripod weight | 5.44kg (12lb) |
| Slew speeds | Nine, with a maximum of 4° per second |
| Tracking rates | Sidereal, Solar and Lunar |
| Tracking modes | Alt-Az, EQ North and EQ South |
| Dovetail compatibility | CG-5 saddle plate |
| AUX ports | Four; the hand controller can use any AUX port |
| Autoguide port | No |
| USB | Hand-controller input and mount output for mobile-device charging |
| Power | Internal 9.6V, 4.5Ah LiFePO4 battery |
| Motor drive | DC servo motors |
| Alignment procedures | SkyAlign, 1-Star, 2-Star, Auto 2-Star, Solar System, Quick-Align, Last Alignment and EQ North/EQ South with an optional wedge |
| Periodic error correction | No |
| Hand controller | StarSense/NexStar hand controller with backlit LCD and USB connection |
| Object database | More than 40,000 objects, including 220 selected deep-sky and Solar System objects |
| Software | Celestron Starry Night Special Edition and SkyPortal app |
| Total telescope kit weight | 19.05kg (42lb) |
Solar Safety
Warning: Never look at the Sun through this telescope unless a suitable certified aperture solar filter is securely fitted over the complete front aperture.
Never use an eyepiece-type solar filter, a Herschel wedge or the telescope to project an image of the Sun. Unfiltered sunlight can cause immediate and permanent eye damage and may damage the telescope or attached accessories.
Never leave the telescope unattended, especially when children are present. If the suitability or fit of a solar filter cannot be confirmed, do not point the telescope at or near the Sun.
Instruction Manuals
The official quick setup, NexStar Evolution and StarSense documents are supplied in English, French, German, Spanish and Italian. The separate EdgeHD optics manual provides additional optical-system guidance.