The Celestron NexStar SLT Telescope series has been a top seller due to having a very user friendly interface and easy setup without sacrificing high quality optics. An adjustable stainless-steel tripod, quick release fork arm, NexStar+ computerized hand control, and a 127mm Maksutov-Cassegrain optical tube are all pre assembled so the user can observe right away with minimal setup time. All that must be done is to align the telescope with the SkyAlignment method.

Since it is a Maksutov-Cassegrain catadioptric design, meaning it includes a mirror and lens, the NexStar 127SLT definitely excels when it comes to planetary observation. Due to light passing through the corrector lens first before hitting the mirror, views are sharp and crisp without hardly any chromatic aberration. The phases of Venus, polar caps on Mars, Jupiter with its four Galilean moons and Saturn's rings are all extremely evident even to first-time observers. The telescope can be used for terrestrial, daytime, and wildlife observation as well.

Due to the fact that Maksutov-Cassegrain designs do not have a secondary mirror but rather a "secondary spot" of reflective coating on the corrector plate, they typically avoid the collimation hustle that is often needed with Schmidt-Cassegrain designs.  In addition, the "secondary spot" is much smaller than the secondary mirror of a Schmidt Cassegrain which results in Maksutov-Cassegrains having high contrast views, particularly for planetary observation. However, one thing to keep in mind is Maksutov-Cassegrains take longer to cool to ambient temperature since the corrector plate takes longer to cool down due to its weight.

• The Altazimuth fork mount is superior for a beginner user who wants the simplicity of being able to slew and track the celestial objects throughout the night sky. It is mounted on an adjustable steel tripod.
• The NexStar+Hand control database is absolutely incredible with its 40,000 celestial object database! The observer can learn about the exact object they are viewing in real-time! The list includes 600 galaxies, 300 clusters, and dozens of binary stars. The Sky Tour feature also will slew to objects available in the night sky at a given point in time and location that may be of interest to the observer.
• Aligning the Celestron NexStar 127SLT computerized telescope is a piece of cake with the SkyAlign feature! All the user must do is enter a location and point the telescope to three bright objects (stars, moons, or planets) without knowing the names! The system does the rest!
• The Celestron NexStar 127SLT is powered by 8 AA batteries (not included) or the Celestron PowerTank (sold separately). The internal battery component powers the high precision servo motors for low vibration while removing cord wrap issues. The Celestron 12V AC adapter is also available and will work.