
Key Takeaways:
- The Celestron SkyProdigy 6 telescope features a computerized drive and steel tripod, enabling hands-free operation.
- The SkyProdigy line offers simplified astronomical observation compared to previous technologies, addressing challenges faced by beginner astronomers.
- The SkyProdigy series includes five telescope models with varying apertures (2.76 to 6 inches) and optical designs (refractors, Schmidt-Cassegrain, Newtonian reflector, and Maksutov-Cassegrain).
- The reviewed SkyProdigy 6 model utilizes a 6-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope, representing the largest aperture and focal length within the product line.
Just a few years ago, the technology this telescope offers didn’t exist, and when it did come into being, it wasn’t as fully featured and cost significantly more. A beginner was on his own. If he didn’t have a buddy interested in the hobby or a local astronomy club, he’d find it difficult to get started, and his interest might wane quickly.
Celestron offers a choice of five different scopes in its SkyProdigy line: two refractors, a Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope (SCT), one Newtonian reflector, and one Maksutov-Cassegrain telescope. The units are available in apertures from 2.76 to 6 inches.
For this review, I received a SkyProdigy 6, which pairs a computerized single-arm fork mount with a 6-inch SCT, the largest aperture and focal length in the line.