Introduction: Why Choose the Celestron Astro Fi 102?
Product Dimensions : 34inch D x 30inch W x 50inch H Objective Lens Diameter : 102 Millimeters Power Source : Adapter Optical Tube Length : 381 Millimeters
Control your telescope via integrated WiFi using the free Celestron Sky Portal app for iPhone, iPad, and Android devicesSee On Amazon
The Celestron Astro Fi 102 is an excellent entry-level to intermediate smart telescope that blends technology with functionality. Designed for hobbyist astronomers and beginners alike, this Maksutov-Cassegrain telescope offers clear views of the Moon, Jupiter, Saturn, Venus, and even some brighter deep-sky objects like the Orion Nebula or Andromeda Galaxy under good skies.
What makes it particularly attractive is its Wi-Fi enabled control via smartphone or tablet, making it incredibly user-friendly. Whether you're buying your first telescope or looking to upgrade to something smarter, the Astro Fi 102 is a solid, affordable choice.
✨ James Webb Nebula Gallery
Nebula? No, It the Cat Eye Crater!
Nebula? No, It the Cat Eye Crater!
WISE Spies the Tarantula Nebula
Sending chills down the spine of all arachnophobes is the Tarantula nebula, seen in this image from NASA Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer; the nebula is the largest star-forming region known in our entire Local Group of galaxies.
The Twin Jet Nebula
The Twin Jet Nebula, or PN M2-9, is a striking example of a bipolar planetary nebula. Bipolar planetary nebulae are formed when the central object is not a single star, but a binary system, Studies have shown that the nebula’s size increases with time, and measurements of this rate of increase suggest that the stellar outburst that formed the lobes occurred just 1200 years ago.
The Tarantula Nebula
NASA Spitzer Space Telescope, formerly known as the Space Infrared Telescope Facility, has captured in stunning detail the spidery filaments and newborn stars of theTarantula Nebula, a rich star-forming region also known as 30 Doradus. This cloud of glowing dust and gas is located in the Large Magellanic Cloud, the nearest galaxy to our own Milky Way, and is visible primarily from the Southern Hemisphere. This image of an interstellar cauldron provides a snapshot of the complex physical processes and chemistry that govern the birth - and death - of stars. At the heart of the nebula is a compact cluster of stars, known as R136, which contains very massive and young stars. The brightest of these blue supergiant stars are up to 100 times more massive than the Sun, and are at least 100,000 times more luminous. These stars will live fast and die young, at least by astronomical standards, exhausting their nuclear fuel in a few million years. The Spitzer Space Telescope image was obtained with an infrared array camera that is sensitive to invisible infrared light at wavelengths that are about ten times longer than visible light. In this four-color composite, emission at 3.6 microns is depicted in blue, 4.5 microns in green, 5.8 microns in orange, and 8.0 microns in red. The image covers a region that is three-quarters the size of the full moon. The Spitzer observations penetrate the dust clouds throughout the Tarantula to reveal previously hidden sites of star formation. Within the luminescent nebula, many holes are also apparent. These voids are produced by highly energetic winds originating from the massive stars in the central star cluster. The structures at the edges of these voids are particularly interesting. Dense pillars of gas and dust, sculpted by the stellar radiation, denote the birthplace of future generations of stars. The Spitzer image provides information about the composition of the material at the edges of the voids. The surface layers closest to the massive stars are subject to the most intense stellar radiation. Here, the atoms are stripped of their electrons, and the green color of these regions is indicative of the radiation from this highly excited, or 'ionized,' material. The ubiquitous red filaments seen throughout the image reveal the presence of molecular material thought to be rich in hydrocarbons. The Tarantula Nebula is the nearest example of a 'starburst' phenomenon, in which intense episodes of star formation occur on massive scales. Most starbursts, however, are associated with dusty and distant galaxies. Spitzer infrared observations of the Tarantula provide astronomers with an unprecedented view of the lifecycle of massive stars and their vital role in regulating the birth of future stellar and planetary systems. http://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA05062
Weighing in on the Dumbbell Nebula
The Dumbbell nebula, also known as Messier 27, pumps out infrared light in this image from NASA Spitzer Space Telescope. Planetary nebulae are now known to be the remains of stars that once looked a lot like our sun.
Planetary Nebula
This planetary nebula's simple, graceful appearance is thought to be due to perspective: our view from Earth looking straight into what is actually a barrel-shaped cloud of gas shrugged off by a dying central star. Hot blue gas near the energizing central star gives way to progressively cooler green and yellow gas at greater distances with the coolest red gas along the outer boundary. Credit: NASA/Hubble Heritage Team ---- The Ring Nebula's distinctive shape makes it a popular illustration for astronomy books. But new observations by NASA's Hubble Space Telescope of the glowing gas shroud around an old, dying, sun-like star reveal a new twist. "The nebula is not like a bagel, but rather, it's like a jelly doughnut, because it's filled with material in the middle," said C. Robert O'Dell of Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tenn. He leads a research team that used Hubble and several ground-based telescopes to obtain the best view yet of the iconic nebula. The images show a more complex structure than astronomers once thought and have allowed them to construct the most precise 3-D model of the nebula. "With Hubble's detail, we see a completely different shape than what's been thought about historically for this classic nebula," O'Dell said. "The new Hubble observations show the nebula in much clearer detail, and we see things are not as simple as we previously thought." The Ring Nebula is about 2,000 light-years from Earth and measures roughly 1 light-year across. Located in the constellation Lyra, the nebula is a popular target for amateur astronomers. Read more: 1.usa.gov/14VAOMkNASA image use policy.NASA Goddard Space Flight Center enables NASA’s mission through four scientific endeavors: Earth Science, Heliophysics, Solar System Exploration, and Astrophysics. Goddard plays a leading role in NASA’s accomplishments by contributing compelling scientific knowledge to advance the Agency’s mission. Follow us on TwitterLike us on FacebookFind us on Instagram
Product Highlights: What to Look For in the Astro Fi 102
When acquiring a telescope, it's important to understand the key features that meet your specific needs. Here's what stands out about the Celestron Astro Fi 102:
1. Optical Design – Maksutov-Cassegrain
The 102mm aperture Maksutov-Cassegrain design is compact and perfect for urban or suburban use. It provides sharp, high-contrast images, making it excellent for planetary viewing.
2. Smart Wi-Fi Control
Instead of a traditional hand controller, the Astro Fi 102 connects wirelessly to your smartphone using the Celestron SkyPortal app. This makes object location and telescope alignment intuitive for newcomers.
3. Fully Automated GoTo Mount
With a built-in motorized GoTo mount, you can automatically find and track over 120,000 celestial objects. Ideal for users who want more time viewing and less time searching.
4. Portability and Setup
Weighing just around 16 lbs (fully assembled), it’s lightweight and perfect for backyard astronomers or taking to darker skies. The setup takes less than 10 minutes with no tools required.
5. Accessories and Expandability
It includes two eyepieces (25mm and 10mm), a red dot finder, and a sturdy tripod. You can upgrade with better eyepieces or add accessories like filters, camera adapters, or external power sources.
How to Choose the Right Telescope: A Quick Checklist
Final Thoughts: Should You Acquire the Celestron Astro Fi 102?
If you're looking for a smart, beginner-friendly telescope that doesn’t compromise on optical performance, the Celestron Astro Fi 102 is a top contender. Its Wi-Fi control, GoTo mount, and clear optics make it perfect for amateur astronomers who want more viewing and less guesswork.
What can I see with the Celestron Astro Fi 102?You can observe the Moon in detail, planets like Jupiter, Saturn, Venus, and some bright deep-sky objects like the Orion Nebula.
Is the Astro Fi 102 good for beginners?Yes, it's very beginner-friendly thanks to its Wi-Fi control and automated GoTo mount, which simplifies object tracking.
Does it require a hand controller?No, it uses the SkyPortal app via Wi-Fi for control, eliminating the need for a separate hand controller.
Can I use this telescope for astrophotography?You can take basic Moon and planetary photos with a smartphone adapter, but it's not designed for deep-sky astrophotography.
How does it compare to a Newtonian telescope?The Maksutov design offers better portability and sharper planetary views, but has a narrower field of view than a Newtonian.
What accessories come in the box?It includes a tripod, red dot finder, two eyepieces (25mm & 10mm), and a smartphone-compatible mount.
Can I track stars or planets automatically?Yes. With the SkyAlign feature and GoTo motorized mount, it can automatically track celestial objects.
How long does it take to set up?Setup is simple and can be completed in under 10 minutes with no tools required.