Designed as an entry- to mid-level astronomical observation platform, the Celestron NexStar 127SLT 127mm f/12 Maksutov-Cassegrain GoTo Telescope gives users the ability to make detailed observations of the Moon, with the ability to easily see planets and reach outside the solar system to resolve distant objects like galaxies, nebulae, and binary or variable stars. The compact and powerful Maksutov-Cassegrain design corrects off-axis aberrations like comas and chromatic aberrations to produce images with true color rendition through the use of a front corrector plate with a convex meniscus lens, which not only eliminates the need for periodic collimation, but by the nature of the lens requires a smaller secondary mirror to limit obstruction and increase contrast.

The brain of the NexStar SLT is the venerable NexStar computer controller. Equipped with a database of over 4000 objects, including the planets, stars, nebulae, galaxies, and the complete Messier catalog, it can also be programmed with up to 99 custom user-defined objects and filters for custom object lists. Its intuitive menu-driven user interface provides the power to observe the heavens with nine slew speeds and three tracking rates, plus anti-backlash compensation. Features such as guided tours, extended information on 200 popular objects, and multiple alignment options make the NexStar controller easy to use and invaluable to new users and experienced stargazers alike.