Basic Information about the NexStar SLT Series
Read my review of the NexStar 102SLT
here.
 In February of 2005, Celestron introduced a new line of computerized
scopes - the NexStar SLT. Utilizing a new upgradeable NexStar hand control, the
NexStar SLT series is quite similar to the NexStar GT series and in fact
replaces it in the model lineup.
The NexStar SLT is offered in 60, 80 and 102mm refractor models and 114
and 130mm Newtonian reflector models. Introductory prices range from $250 for a NexStar
60 SLT up to $420 for a NexStar 102 SLT.
Optical performance of the 60 and 114 models are as I described for
the corresponding NexStar GT models in my book, The NexStar User's
Guide. The 80 is the same
optical tube as the NexStar 80 GTL described in the NexStar User's
Guide updates section
here on the web site. The 130 is the same optical tube as the
NexStar 130 GT described in the NexStar User's Guide updates section. The 102
(pictured to the right) is an f/6 version of the optical tube found on
the NexStar 102 GT which I described in the NexStar User's Guide updates section.
The longer focal length reduces chromatic aberrations, producing a
sharper image than the f/5 version found on the 102 GT, while other
optical performance measures are basically the same. The mount has been significantly upgraded from the NexStar GT:
- Tracking performance is greatly improved with the SLT; objects now remain
in the field of view for as long as you care to watch them.
- The aluminum tripod has been replaced with a more stable, yet still
very portable, steel leg model.
- The mount now includes an AUX port compatible with the CN-16 GPS module
and the Auxiliary Port Accessory Kit. The Aux Port Kit allows, among
other things, the motor control firmware to be upgraded by the user.
- The optical tube attaches to the fork arm with a dovetail clamp assembly
allowing quick and easy removal. In fact, this allows the SLT mount to
carry a wide variety of small optical tubes by attaching a matching dovetail
bar. The dovetail is compatible with the CG-5, LXD-55, Vixen GPs, etc.
- The NexStar SLT is fully supported by Celestron's NexRemote software.
- The AA batteries now fit inside the mount for cord-free use.
The new hand control
sports the latest version of the NexStar firmware. This includes
features such as Identify and Constellation Tour. This hand control responds to the same PC commands (via
the RS-232 port on the bottom) as the NexStar 8/9.25/11 GPS, so programs
compatible with the NexStar GPS are compatible with the NexStar SLT.
The biggest news regarding the new hand control is user upgradeability
and the new alignment methods. Future upgrades to the hand control
firmware will be available for download via the Internet and owners can
apply the upgrades themselves. The new alignment methods are SkyAlign,
Auto Two Star Align (first available on the NexStar 8i Special Edition),
Solar System Align and One Star Align. In addition to the new
alignment methods, the new hand control still has Two Star Align. Removed
since the NexStar GT are Quick Align and Auto Align. See the Alignment Guides
section of this web site for details on the new alignment methods.
Additional information is found
here on Celestron's web site.
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