This gallery was originally for the purpose of selling the mount but I have recanted and decided to keep it.

I can't say enough good things about this telescope/mount combination, the Celestron NexStar8SE. I took it out to the patio one evening to test a new focal reducer and marveled at the ease of set-up and alignment. In the process of observing, I stopped and realized just how quickly and effortlessly I was out and observing with just a one-object alignment using the Solar System Alignment routine. Later, after performing a two-star auto align, using Alpheratz and Fomalhut, I was bouncing from target to target all over the sky. And the OTA is very solid with sharp optics.

Our local club (Superstition Mountain Astronomical League) is recommending this telescope's smaller bretheren, the 6 inch NexStar 6SE, for anyone looking for a starter telescope, shown here: http://www.optcorp.com/product.aspx?pid=1-600-602-891-8379

The mount itself can be purchased as a stane-alone item as well. Although not well suited to long refractors since it would be impossible to aim at the zenith, the mount will handle up to an 8 inch SCT. Would probably handle a short refractor (80 - 90mm) just fine. OPT's ad for the mount: http://www.optcorp.com/product.aspx?pid=439-277-15291

I receive no compensation nor am I affiliated with the companies mentioned here, other than being a satisfied customer.