Celestron StarPointer Finderscope

Installed this new spotter on my Celestron Telescope last night. Used for the first time. I had the old version with just the dot laser that covered the star you wanted. I do agree this new version with circle is better for centering what you are wanting to look at. While the size is overkill of the device it self I like this version much better. I had to first use the Moon to get the circle close to an object then moved to Jupiter cause I could use these objects to zero in the new scope. After that was able to move to brighter stars further away to zero in a little better. Pretty easy to use large turn knob to turn device on. Visibility of the object in question is easy to see in the center of the optic. Little expensive for what it seems to be especially over the old version. But since it should last a while I pulled the trigger on it. Adjustments for the zeroing in are easy to use with the larger adjustment screws.

Nice laser finder scope. When I first got it I thought the battery was dead, but quickly realized you really have to crank the power/brightness knob almost all the way up for the laser to illuminate the glass. Very easy to adjust the concentric rings, and the view is fine when adjusted to your eyes. Comes with four mounts, so one will most likely fit your OTA.

Its a very good star finder except when the battery needs to be changed which is a pain in the A**. If Celestron would change that, it would be a 5 star !

Here's a review for the Celestron Star Pointer:The Celestron Star Pointer is an essential tool for stargazing enthusiasts! This finderscope makes aligning my telescope with celestial objects incredibly easy. The red dot is crisp and adjustable, allowing for precise alignment even in low light conditions. I love how lightweight and easy it is to mount and calibrate on my telescope. The build quality feels reliable, and it holds its settings well, even after transporting my telescope. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned stargazer, this star pointer is a must-have for seamless night sky navigation. It’s a small addition that makes a big difference in the stargazing experience!

AstroMaster 130EQ-MDThis finderscope looked great, and I was really excited about the double open circle... until I tried to sight it in. It was so far below the target that I couldn't max out the 'up/down' alignment and get it above the bottom of the view. I am working with a brand new Astromaster, and admit, I tried this finderscope before I tried sighting the stock finderscope. However, when I gave up and went back to the stock finderscope, I had no problem what-so-ever targeting it.... so I think it's fair to say it wasn't me or the telescope that was the issue. It could just be that I got a defective unit, and I intend to try one more time before I just return it and just use the dot sight the telescope came with.

Excellent product. I would recommend it to anyone that would like to upgrade from the red dot starfinder.

I have mixed feelings about this finder. It works great -- like really well! If you line up your OTA with this finder properly, and you get the target in the center circle, you'll likely see your target in your viewfinder (assuming you're not using something silly like a 6mm eyepiece with a Barlow).My issue with this finder scope is that the plastic is too soft. Using the provided tools, I ended up scratching up and chipping the battery cover while trying to be gentle (I had read similar complaints before buying this and thought perhaps those reviewers were being animals). This issue could easily be fixed by providing an aluminum cover instead. For the price of this finder, I'm not expecting Tele Vue or Baader quality, but I do expect to be able to change the battery without damaging the aesthetics of the device.Battery cover aside, the overall plastic construction is fine. The finder is useful. The batter life is really good (I forgot to turn it off a few times and it's still going). If you're not bothered by the battery cover issue, I'd recommend this finder for its utility.I ended up returning it because I couldn't get over how cheap the battery cover is. It certainly will not survive multiple years of battery changes... or at least it won't do so without looking like a dog chewed on it.

Product is good