Two models, the numbers decide
Celestron NexStar 5SE or Celestron NexStar 8SE?
Celestron NexStar 5SE — 125 mm, €950. Celestron NexStar 8SE — 203 mm, €1750. The same method as everywhere on this site: the numbers first, the verdict from them.
Same family (150–200 mm Schmidt-Cassegrain on a GoTo alt-az): what changes between these two is aperture, bulk and price — not character.
Side by side
The Celestron NexStar 8SE collects 2.6× more light — that is what aperture buys.
| Celestron NexStar 5SE | Celestron NexStar 8SE | |
|---|---|---|
| Aperture | 125 mm | 203 mm |
| Focal ratio | 1250 mm · f/10.0 | 2032 mm · f/10.0 |
| Typical weight | 12 kg | 15 kg |
| Setup time | 15 minutes | 15 minutes |
| Learning curve | 3 out of 5 | 3 out of 5 |
| Useful magnification | ≤ 250× | ≤ 406× |
| Resolution (Dawes) | 0.9″ | 0.6″ |
| Observed price | €950 (seen 2026-08-17) | €1750 (seen 2026-08-17) |
The same sky, through both
These circles are simulations, computed from the aperture, the magnification and the sky — indicative, not exact. A real night also depends on the turbulence, your eyes and your experience. Closer to the truth than the photo on the box; still not a promise.
The Moon
Saturn
The Orion Nebula
The Andromeda Galaxy
Choose the Celestron NexStar 5SE if…
- budget decides: €800 less
- it has to be carried: 3 kg lighter
Full page on the NexStar 5SE →
Where to buy
- Astroshoppaid link€853 seen 2026-08-23ships DE, FR, EU
- Amazon.frships FR
- First Light Opticsships GB
- Optique Unterlindenships FR
- Pierro Astroships FR
- Teleskop-Expressships DE, EU
1 of these 6 links earn us a commission, marked above. Sorted by price, never by what pays. How this site is funded.
Choose the Celestron NexStar 8SE if…
- you want the most sky: 2.6× the light
Full page on the NexStar 8SE →
Where to buy
- Astroshoppaid link€2129 seen 2026-08-23ships DE, FR, EU
- Amazon.frships FR
- First Light Opticsships GB
- Optique Unterlindenships FR
- Pierro Astroships FR
- Teleskop-Expressships DE, EU
1 of these 6 links earn us a commission, marked above. Sorted by price, never by what pays. How this site is funded.