Celestron NexStar 8 SE (480 x 203mm) Telescope

First of all, a review should be about the product, not about a bad buying experience.

My telescope arrived in mint condition, no scratches ect.. on tube or tripod and collimation was excellent. The only problem was a small spring was missing for the tripod which was easily replaced.

Scope set up was relatively easy. I must point out that reading and understanding the proper set up procedure is a must. My first attempts at go-to failed. After re-reading instructions, go-to and tracking was bang on. I actually left the scope for approximately 2 hours with it pointed at Saturn. When I returned, Saturn was still very near to the center of the eyepiece. I went from Saturn to Mars and it put Mars very close to center.

Views through the scope exceeded my expectations, even with below average seeing conditions and light pollution. My eyepieces are just an average set of 4 element plossl's. I can only imagine the view through a Nagler. Saturn was crisp and clear even at higher magnification. The moons of Saturn were easily visible. Our moon was absolutely stunning.

The biggest con with this scope, vibration while focusing. It takes 3-4 seconds to settle down between adjustments. I did manage to settle down this problem by setting the tripod up on a solid base, a concrete pad. I would suggest getting a set of vibration dampeners for the tripod.

Overall, this is an excellent scope. I gave it a 4 out of 5 only because of the vibration issue. I would recommend this scope to anyone.