The iconic NexStar SE is one of Celestron's most beloved computerized telescopes, introducing thousands of observers to the wonders of the night sky. Now, as part of the Smithsonian by Celestron collection, this proven favorite pairs Celestron's legendary Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with educational resources designed to inspire curiosity and a lifetime of exploration.

The Celestron NexStar 6SE by the Smithsonian combines premium optics, intelligent GoTo technology, and a compact, portable design into one telescope. It’s equally suited to beginners and experienced observers alike, offering a powerful grab-and-go system. Whether you're observing the Moon, planets, bright nebulae, distant galaxies, or star clusters, the NexStar 6SE makes exploring the universe easier, more rewarding, and more immersive than ever.

6" Schmidt-Cassegrain Optics

The NexStar SE series has long been a favorite among amateur astronomers, combining Celestron’s Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with a recognizable, compact design. NexStar 6SE features a 150mm (6") Schmidt-Cassegrain optical system with a 1500mm focal length and f/10 focal ratio. The 6" aperture gathers 459 times more light than the unaided human eye, revealing details that are impossible to see without optical aid. Celestron’s StarBright XLT optical coatings further improve light transmission through the system.

Point NexStar 6SE toward the Moon to examine craters, mountain ranges, and other features along the lunar terminator. Turn to the planets for views of Jupiter and its brightest moons, Saturn and its rings, and other Solar System favorites when they’re visible. Under darker skies, use the telescope’s light-gathering ability to explore deep-sky targets including nebulae, star clusters, double stars, and brighter galaxies.

NexStar 6SE can also be used to capture images of your favorite celestial targets. For quick shots of the Moon and planets, pair your smartphone with an optional smartphone adapter to photograph through the eyepiece. You can also attach a DSLR or mirrorless camera directly to the telescope for prime-focus imaging with T-mount accessories. For those ready to explore more advanced astrophotography, NexStar 6SE can be paired with an optional equatorial wedge and StarSense Autoguider for longer-exposure imaging.

The Classic NexStar SE

The NexStar SE series has become a favorite among amateur astronomers for its distinctive design and easy-to-use computerized features. NexStar 6SE’s computerized alt-azimuth mount features the signature single fork arm, creating a compact setup that moves the telescope up and down and side to side to locate and track objects across the sky.

Control the telescope with the included NexStar+ hand control, which puts a database of more than 40,000 celestial objects at your fingertips. Celestron’s SkyAlign technology simplifies setup, too. Enter your date, time, and location, then center any three bright celestial objects in the eyepiece. Once aligned, NexStar 6SE is ready to automatically find and track objects as you observe.

Portable Power Options

Take NexStar 6SE to your backyard or a darker observing site. The telescope can operate on eight AA batteries (not included) housed inside the mount, so you don’t need access to an electrical outlet. For longer observing sessions, you can add an optional 12V AC adapter or Celestron PowerTank external power source.

Everything You Need to Start Observing

The Smithsonian by Celestron NexStar 6SE comes with the essential accessories for your first observing session.

The included 25mm 1.25” eyepiece provides 60x magnification, perfect for a wide variety of celestial objects. The 1.25” star diagonal redirects the telescope’s light path 90°, providing a more comfortable viewing angle when the telescope is pointed high in the sky. The StarPointer™ red dot finderscope helps with initial aiming and alignment. Its adjustable brightness, two-axis alignment controls, and quick-release dovetail bracket make it easy to set up and use.

Astronomy Software Included - Your telescope includes access to Celestron Starry Night Special Edition astronomy software, which lets you simulate the night sky, learn about celestial objects, and plan future observing sessions from your computer. You can also control the telescope from a compatible computer through the USB connection on the NexStar+ hand control. Or download the Celestron SkyPortal app, powered by SkySafari™, for iOS and Android. Its intuitive planetarium interface makes it easy to identify and learn about celestial objects visible from your location.

Continue Your Exploration with Smithsonian by Celestron

For nearly 180 years, the Smithsonian has inspired curiosity through scientific discovery, research, education, and exploration. Celestron is proud to collaborate with the Smithsonian to create products that encourage a lifelong passion for astronomy and make the wonders of the night sky more accessible to everyone. 

Your NexStar 6SE includes special-edition resources from Smithsonian and Celestron to take your exploration further: 

• Smithsonian Moon Map Poster: Explore the lunar surface with detailed imagery, labeled landmarks, and observing tips to guide your view. 
• Premium Exploring the Universe Booklet: Go deeper with expanded astronomy content and insights from Smithsonian and Celestron experts. 
• Smithsonian by Celestron Explorer Hub: Discover even more online with astronomy guides, observing tips, educational articles, activities, and more.