SkyScout Personal Planetarium
Item #93970

CELESTRON® IS HONORED TO HAVE THE AWARD WINNING SKYSCOUT® PERSONAL PLANETARIUM® NAMED THE OFFICIAL PRODUCT OF IYA2009

TORRANCE, CA - (November 5, 2008) - Celestron®, the world's leading designer and manufacturer of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, microscopes and related accessories, announced that their award-winning SkyScout Personal Planetarium has been declared the "Official Product" of International Year of Astronomy 2009 by the IYA organization. "Celestron's SkyScout is a must-have tool for astronomy beginners. Its high-quality features and educational value make it the perfect instrument to explore the sky during 2009, the International Year of Astronomy." said Pedro Russo, International Year of Astronomy Coordinator.

About the size of a camcorder and weighing less than 16 ounces, the SkyScout utilizes a consumer-friendly "point and shoot" GPS technology that enables stargazers to instantly identify and/or locate over 50,000 celestial objects in the sky with the press of a button and listen to commentary on the object and its history. The SkyScout also has a "locate" feature that allows users to select an object they wish to view (i.e. Mars) and the SkyScout, using illuminated arrows in the viewfinder, will point the user to the object. "After 400 years of telescopes comes another product that is bound to revolutionize educational astronomy. The sky will never be the same with Celestron's SkyScout." said Dr. Salim Ansari, Head of Information Systems and Education Support Service with the European Space Agency.

Celestron invites you to be a part of the IYA2009 global celebration. Worldwide events and activities are being planned to celebrate IYA2009; such as sidewalk astronomy events, planetarium shows, documentaries and traveling exhibits. "Celestron is proud to be a global sponsor of IYA2009. It is imperative that we increase scientific awareness to the general public and generate excitement for astronomy and the science community to our younger generation." said Joseph A. Lupica Jr, President and CEO of Celestron. "We need to increase knowledge and concern for the preservation of our dark skies and our historical astronomical sites. The International Year of Astronomy gives the citizens of the world a way to better understand how the impact of science and astronomy affects their daily lives and how they can help contribute to a more peaceful, knowledgeable society."

The expanding SkyScout Personal Planetarium family now features many new accessories; including high-quality, rechargeable SkyScout Speakers and SkyScout Expansion Cards (All About the Stars and Astronomy for Beginners). The SkyScout continues to be the easiest to use, most accurate and most reliable device of its kind on the market. Visit, www.celestron.com for detailed information on product features and availability.

Learn more about the International Year of Astronomy at the Celestron IYA2009 website: www.celestronlife.com/IYA09

THE UNIVERSE IS NOT THE ONLY THING EXPANDING…

TORRANCE, CA – (July 1, 2008) – Celestron® one of the world’s leading designers and manufacturers of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, microscopes and related accessories, has announced a price reduction for their award winning SkyScout® Personal Planetarium®, making it more affordable than ever. Celestron is also pleased to announce a new version of firmware (1.30) that expands the knowledge of SkyScout beyond 50,000 objects. SkyScout owners can simply upgrade their database at www.celestron.com for FREE.

“Celestron is pleased to offer the consumer a lower price point for SkyScout, while also adding additional features and content at no cost.” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron. “It is rare for a company to provide free upgrades and support for a consumer electronic product. Celestron understands what our customers deserve and we are committed to keeping our products and service standards high year after year.”

The expanding SkyScout Personal Planetarium family now features many new accessories as well; including high-quality, rechargeable SkyScout Speakers and SkyScout Expansion Cards (All About the Stars and Astronomy for Beginners). The SkyScout continues to be the easiest to use, most accurate and most reliable device of its kind on the market. Visit, www.celestron.com for detailed information on product features and availability.

About Celestron

Celestron the leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes. Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron has grown to become one of the world’s leading telescope makers, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology. Celestron’s innovative products continue to receive numerous industry and consumer media accolades, adding to an already impressive list that includes awards for product innovation from Reader’s Digest, Popular Science, PC Magazine, Popular Mechanics, the Consumer Electronics Association and more. Celestron sells and markets its products worldwide through a variety of specialty retail outlets and international distributors. Celestron is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA. For more information about Celestron please visit http://www.celestron.com.

“SKY IN GOOGLE EARTH” ADDS AUDIO TOURS FROM THE CELESTRON SKYSCOUT PERSONAL PLANETARIUM’S COSMIC ENCYCLOPEDIA

TORRANCE, CA – (April 17, 2008) – Celestron, one of the world’s leading designers and manufacturers of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, microscopes and related accessories, announced that it will provide a series of deep space interactive audio tours for use with Sky in Google Earth.  Utilizing the award-winning SkyScout Personal Planetarium’s technology and knowledge base, Celestron’s SkyScout Audio Tours enable Sky in Google Earth explorers to embark on an interactive cosmic journey of discovery that includes in-depth information on everything from constellations to supernova explosions to hundreds of millions of stars.
 
The Celestron’s SkyScout Audio Tours will automatically appear in the Sky feature in Google Earth.  All deep space objects with available SkyScout audio files will be marked with a Celestron logo.  When the user selects the object, a virtual SkyScout audio player will appear and proceed to play the information-packed audio file as well as display the corresponding text. 

Sky is a feature of the very popular Google Earth application.  Sky in Google Earth allows anyone with a computer to view 3D images of nearly 100 million stars and 200 million galaxies, and with the addition of SkyScout Audio Tours, users will be guided through an interactive tour of the night sky that includes detailed information on all of the planets, stars, galaxies, clusters, nebulae, constellations, and asterisms that make up the universe. 

“The SkyScout Audio Tours are designed to give Sky in Google Earth enthusiasts access to a universe of knowledge and adventure like never before,” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron.  “Together, Celestron and Sky in Google Earth transform the night sky into a personal planetarium, satisfying the natural curiosity to explore new frontiers, and creating a thirst for knowledge that will inspire the next generation of explorers and scientists.”

In accordance with the partnership announcement, Celestron is offering a $100.00 rebate to anyone that purchases its award-winning SkyScout Personal Planetarium between now and June 15th, 2008.   Visit www.celestron.com for details.

About Celestron
Celestron is a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes.  Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron has grown to become one of the world’s leading telescope makers, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology.  Celestron’s innovative products continue to receive numerous industry and consumer media accolades, adding to an already impressive list that includes awards for product innovation from Reader’s Digest, Popular Science, PC Magazine, Popular Mechanics, the Consumer Electronics Association and more.  Celestron sells and markets its products worldwide through a variety of specialty retail outlets and international distributors. Celestron is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA.  For more information about Celestron please visit http://www.celestron.com.

 

The Innovative SkyScout Connect Brings Point And Click Convenience To Celestron’s Line of High Powered, User-Friendly Computerized Telescopes

TORRANCE, CA – (February 19, 2008) – Celestron®, a leading designer and manufacturer of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes, is enhancing the capability of its award-winning SkyScout® Personal Planetarium®, the revolutionary handheld device that uses advanced GPS technology with point and click convenience to identify thousands of stars, planets, constellations and more, with the unveiling of SkyScout Connect. Bringing amateur astronomy to the next level of space exploration, SkyScout Connect enables stargazers and backyard astronomers to use their SkyScout Personal Planetarium to locate an object in the night sky and then automatically slew any one of Celestron’s NexStar® SLT, NexStar SE, Advanced Series GT, CPC® Series and CGE Series computerized telescopes for an up-close look.

“The SkyScout Connect is the next evolution of stargazing as it is a gateway that expands the capabilities of SkyScout and opens up a whole new world of exploration for backyard astronomy enthusiasts,” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron. “Through combined product technologies, Celestron continues to transform the way in which people experience the world and beyond.”

SkyScout Connect has a suggested manufacturers retail price of $99.00.  Visit, www.celestron.com for more information on product features and availability.

About SkyScout Personal Planetarium
Selected as a 2006 CES Innovations Award Recipient and honored as the Best of Innovations, SkyScout Personal Planetarium is a revolutionary, one of a kind, patented device, that is a portable, handheld personal planetarium; it is a celestial viewing device that can instantly identify and/or locate over 6,000 celestial objects, transforming the night sky into a planetarium for stargazers, families, teachers, students and astronomers alike.

About Celestron
Celestron is a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes.  Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron has grown to become one of the world’s leading telescope makers, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology.  Celestron’s innovative products continue to receive numerous industry and consumer media accolades, adding to an already impressive list that includes awards for product innovation from Reader’s Digest, Popular Science, PC Magazine, Popular Mechanics, the Consumer Electronics Association and more.  Celestron sells and markets its products worldwide through a variety of specialty retail outlets and international distributors. Celestron is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA.  For more information about Celestron please visit http://www.celestron.com and http://www.myskyscout.com.

Used In Tandem With The SkyScout Personal Planetarium, Backyard Astronomers Are Now Able To Locate, Identify And Get An Up Close View Of More Than 6,000 Viewable Celestial Objects In The Night Sky

TORRANCE, CA – (January 1, 2008) – Building on the popularity of Celestron®’s award-winning SkyScout® Personal Planetarium®, the revolutionary handheld device that uses advanced GPS technology with point and click convenience to identify thousands of stars, planets, constellations and more, Celestron’s new SkyScout Scope enables SkyScout enthusiasts to locate, identify and get an up close view of more than 6,000 viewable celestial objects in the night sky.

Built with an adjustable mounting bracket for use with the Celestron SkyScout Personal Planetarium, the SkyScout Scope is a powerful non-computerized telescope that delivers bright, clear images of a wide array of objects in the night sky, making astronomy easy and interesting for all.

The 90 mm refractor telescope provides users with a wide field of view, and when used in tandem with SkyScout Personal Planetarium, SkyScout Scope empowers backyard stargazers with the ability to take a cosmic journey of the celestial objects in the night sky and then get an up close, clear and crisp view of each through the all-coated glass optics.

“SkyScout Scope equips budding backyard astronomers with the skills and desire to learn more about our Universe, satisfying the natural curiosity to explore new frontiers, and creating the thirst for knowledge that will inspire the next generation of explorers and astronomers,” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron. “Together, the SkyScout Personal Planetarium and SkyScout Scope transform the night sky into a backyard adventure, placing a universe of knowledge into the hands of astronomy buffs and stargazers of all ages and experience levels.”

Sure to be an instant favorite among astronomy enthusiasts both young and old, SkyScout Scope is easy to assemble, requires little to no maintenance and is excellent for both celestial and terrestrial viewing.  Designed for easy use, the SkyScout Scope includes a permanently mounted 6x30 finder scope, an accessory tray and a panhandle alt-azimuth control with clutch for smooth and accurate pointing every time.

Engineered with rugged and a pre-assembled tripod with 1.25-inch steel tube legs, SkyScout Scope provides a rigid and stable platform that delivers color corrected, high contrast, brilliant images of thousands of celestial objects in the night sky.

And, for those cloudy nights that every stargazer dreads, each SkyScout Scope includes a version of The Sky® software for exploring the Universe on a home PC and printing out custom star charts.

About Celestron
Celestron is a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes.  Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron has grown to become one of the world’s leading telescope makers, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology.  Celestron’s innovative products continue to receive numerous industry and consumer media accolades, adding to an already impressive list that includes awards for product innovation from Reader’s Digest, Popular Science, PC Magazine, Popular Mechanics, the Consumer Electronics Association and more.  Celestron sells and markets its products worldwide through a variety of specialty retail outlets and international distributors. Celestron is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA.  For more information about Celestron please visit http://www.celestron.com// and http://www.myskyscout.com/.

Celestron Donates SkyScout® Personal Planetarium™ And Traveler 10x25 Porro Binoculars To Inquisitive Scouts As Part Of Ongoing Program To Promote Interest In Space Exploration And Astronomy

TORRANCE, CA – (September 12, 2007) – Boy Scouts of the Cornhusker Council, in Southeast Nebraska have the opportunity to send questions to NASA astronaut Clayton Anderson, who is currently in space aboard the International Space Station. Celestron, a leading manufacturer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes, will award exploration prizes to the 20 Boy Scouts chosen to ask their questions. 19 Scouts will receive Traveler 10x25 Porro binoculars, and one lucky winner will receive the SkyScout® Personal Planetarium™.

Cornhusker Council Scouts can submit questions through the “Ask Astronaut Clayton Anderson” website http://www.cornhuskercouncil.org/AskClayton/ until Tuesday, October 16th. NASA will send 20 selected submissions to Anderson, whose responses will be posted on the website. Each year, nearly 50,000 boys in the BSA program earn merit badges in space exploration and astronomy. More than 1 million youth attend a Boy Scout summer or high-adventure camp where they are taught to explore space and the stars.

“Boy Scout councils have been using the SkyScout to learn about objects in the sky from Earth, and now, thanks to this exclusive opportunity through NASA, they will have the opportunity to learn about the Universe from a former Scout in space,” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron. “Well-rounded programs, like this, help to grow the budding curiosity of today’s young people and inspire the space and science developments of tomorrow and we are happy to support such a noble effort.”

About the size of a camcorder and weighing less than 16 ounces, the SkyScout utilizes a consumer-friendly “point and shoot” GPS technology that enables stargazers to instantly identify and/or locate over 6,000 celestial objects in the sky with the press of a button and listen to commentary on the object and its history. The SkyScout also has a “locate” feature that allows users to select an object they wish to view (i.e. Mars) and the SkyScout, using illuminated arrows in the viewfinder, will point the user to the object.

Celestron’s Traveler 10x25 Porro is a streamlined binocular that can be tucked away in a backpack or overnight bag and is comprised of compact, go-anywhere Porro and roof prism binoculars. Featuring BAK-4 prisms and multi-coatings for brilliant views with maximum resolution and high contrast, the Traveler features a conveniently located finger lever for quick and accurate zoom adjustments.

About Boy Scouts of America
Serving nearly 4.5 million young people between 7 and 20 years of age with more than 300 councils throughout the United States and its territories, the Boy Scouts of America is the nation’s foremost youth program of character development and values-based leadership training. For more information on the BSA, please visit www.scouting.org.

About Celestron
Celestron is a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes. Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron has grown to become one of the world’s leading telescope makers, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology. Celestron’s innovative products continue to receive numerous industry and consumer media accolades, adding to an already impressive list that includes awards for product innovation from Reader’s Digest, Popular Science, PC Magazine, Popular Mechanics, the Consumer Electronics Association and more. Celestron sells and markets its products worldwide through a variety of specialty retail outlets and international distributors. Celestron is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA. For more information about Celestron and the SkyScout product please visit, http://www.celestron.com and http://www.myskyscout.com.

Award-Winning Actor Takes Home Title And A SkyScout Personal Planetarium As His Universal Appeal Outshines A Competitive Field Of Nobel Prize Winners, Former Presidents, Famous Explorers, Hollywood Celebrities And Professional Athletes

TORRANCE, CA – (September 12, 2007) – Celestron®, a leading manufacturer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes, announced today that William Shatner has been named “the person most deserving of a star named in their honor” according to the results of a recent people’s choice online poll taken in conjunction with Celestron’s Ultimate Backyard Adventure Sweepstakes promotion.

Best known for his role as Captain James T. Kirk in the popular Star Trek TV and film series, the Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning actor, director, producer, screenwriter, recording artist and author claimed his rightful place in the night sky as he edged out Oprah Winfrey and Tiger Woods to take the people’s choice title for “most deserving of their own star.” Other notable nominees included Edward “Buzz” Aldrin, Carl Sagan, Bill Clinton, Angelina Jolie, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Bill Gates and The Simpsons.

"I'm honored to be the people's top choice to have a star named after me,” commented Mr. Shatner. “I believe that you head toward the North Star and turn left, the one on the right is mine."

In addition to his celestial status, Mr. Shatner also received a Celestron SkyScout Personal Planetarium®, the revolutionary handheld device that uses advanced GPS technology with point and click convenience to identify thousands of stars, planets, constellations and more.

“Mr. Shatner and the entire Star Trek franchise has had a tremendous impact on the pace of scientific and technological advancements as they inspired a new generation of world-changing scientists and inventors that would go on to revolutionize space exploration and consumer technology, paving the way for advanced products like the SkyScout Personal Planetarium,” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron.

About the size of a camcorder and weighing less than 16 ounces, the SkyScout utilizes a consumer-friendly “point and shoot” GPS technology that enables stargazers to instantly identify and/or locate over 6,000 celestial objects in the sky with the press of a button and listen to commentary on the object and its history. The SkyScout also has a “locate” feature that allows users to select an object they wish to view (i.e. Mars) and the SkyScout, using illuminated arrows in the viewfinder, will point the user to the object.

Prior to naming Mr. Shatner as the online poll winner, Celestron announced that Robert Papuga from Morganton, North Carolina had been randomly selected from a pool of over 80,000 entries to win the Ultimate Backyard Adventure Sweepstakes adventure pack, complete with a Celestron SkyScout Personal Planetarium, NexStar® 6 SE computerized telescope, VistaPix® IS70 digital spotting scope, Traveler® 8 24X25 binoculars and all the camping gear needed to enjoy a family camping trip under the stars.

About Celestron
Celestron is a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes. Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron has grown to become one of the world’s leading telescope makers, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology. Celestron’s innovative products continue to receive numerous industry and consumer media accolades, adding to an already impressive list that includes awards for product innovation from Reader’s Digest, Popular Science, PC Magazine, Popular Mechanics, the Consumer Electronics Association and more. Celestron sells and markets its products worldwide through a variety of specialty retail outlets and international distributors. Celestron is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA. For more information about Celestron and the SkyScout product please visit, http://www.celestron.com and http://www.myskyscout.com.

Robert Papuga of Morganton, NC, Wins A SkyScout Personal Planetarium™, Computerized Telescope, Digital Spotting Scope, Binoculars And Family Camping Gear

TORRANCE, CA – (August 30, 2007) – Celestron®, a leading manufacturer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes, announced today that Robert Papuga from Morganton, North Carolina is the grand prize winner of the Ultimate Backyard Adventure Sweepstakes. As the Grand Prize winner, Papuga was randomly selected from more than 80,000 entries to win a complete outdoor adventure pack that includes a Celestron SkyScout Personal Planetarium, NexStar® 6 SE computerized telescope, VistaPix® IS70 digital spotting scope, Traveler® 8 24X25 binoculars and all the camping gear needed to enjoy a family camping trip under the stars.

"I've always been interested in astronomy, but never had the tools to take my curiosity to the next level," said Papuga, a retired vice president of a textile company. "I entered the contest every day for three weeks and now I’m really looking forward to sharing the prize with my family and learning together about the wonders of the Universe."

In addition to receiving a Celestron SkyScout Personal Planetarium, NexStar® 6 SE computerized telescope, VistaPix® IS70 digital spotting scope, Traveler® 8 24X25 binoculars, Papuga will also receive, a family-size tent, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, lantern, portable stove, fire pit, chairs, first-aid kit, flashlights, tarps, can opener, portable shower, pots and pans, batteries, coffee maker, duct tape, compass, knife, insect repellent, cooler, extension forks, cooking utensils, pie iron, cutlery, marshmallows and trail mix.

"Camping and stargazing have always gone hand in hand, and all of our stargazing and exploration products are designed to enhance the overall outdoor experience by making it easy for 'adventurers' of all levels and backgrounds to learn about the night sky," said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron, who personally called Papuga to announce he was the grand prize winner. "We are absolutely delighted to award Robert with many of the Celestron products that have revolutionizing the way we all look at the night sky, and look forward to being a part of their outdoor adventures for years to come."

In addition to Papuga's grand prize, Celestron also announced Ned Chestnut of Hood River, OR, Melanie Bruno of Newhall, CA and Rodney J. Koodray Jr. of Waretown, NJ as the three first prize winners who will each receive a SkyScout Personal Planetarium. Six runner-up winners will be receiving Traveler 10X25 binoculars.

About the size of a camcorder and weighing less than 16 ounces, the SkyScout utilizes a consumer-friendly "point and shoot" GPS technology that enables stargazers to instantly identify and/or locate over 6,000 celestial objects in the sky with the press of a button and listen to commentary on the object and its history. The SkyScout also has a "locate" feature that allows users to select an object they wish to view (i.e. Mars) and the SkyScout, using illuminated arrows in the viewfinder, will point the user to the object.

NexStar 6 SE computerized telescope combines state-of-the-art features with an easy-to-use interface to make astronomy fun, exciting and most importantly, easy for star watchers of all experience levels. Celestron’s innovative SkyAlign® technology automatically aligns the telescope for optimum viewing of any star, planet or galaxy that is selected by the user from a computer database menu of over 40,000 celestial objects.

The VistaPix IS70 is a fully integrated, high-performance spotting scope with a built-in, digital camera that allows users to view, capture, save and share vibrant, high-resolution images and video from a distance, using the scope’s built in high-powered magnification and digital zoom features. Designed for use in a wide range of viewing environments, the VistaPix IS70 brings nature’s live action closer than ever with high-resolution, razor-sharp, vibrant images and video that can be saved and viewed later on a television or PC.

Celestron’s Traveler 8 24X25 is a streamlined binocular that can be tucked away in a backpack or overnight bag, or within arm’s reach in your vehicle’s glove box, and is comprised of compact, go-anywhere porro and roof prism binoculars. Featuring BAK-4 prisms and multi-coatings for brilliant views with maximum resolution and high contrast, the Traveler features a conveniently located finger lever for quick and accurate zoom adjustments.


About Celestron
Celestron is a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes. Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron has grown to become one of the world's leading telescope makers, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology. Celestron's innovative products continue to receive numerous industry and consumer media accolades, adding to an already impressive list that includes awards for product innovation from Reader's Digest, Popular Science, PC Magazine, Popular Mechanics, the Consumer Electronics Association and more. Celestron sells and markets its products worldwide through a variety of specialty retail outlets and international distributors. Celestron is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA. For more information about Celestron and the SkyScout product please visit, http://www.celestron.com and http://www.myskyscout.com.

Award Winning SkyScout® Personal Planetariums™ Donated To Girl Scout Council Members Nationwide

HOUSTON, TX – (July 26, 2007) – Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA), the world’s preeminent youth development organization solely for girls, announced today at its Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) meeting at the San Jacinto Girl Scout Council’s Casa Mare Camp in Houston, TX, a joint program with Celestron® to encourage interest in space exploration and astronomy among America’s youth.  As a leading designer and manufacturer of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes, Celestron marked the occasion with a donation of 100 Celestron SkyScouts® to support the Girl Scouts’ STEM programs, which work to increase science and technology literacy among today’s youth and tomorrow’s leaders.

Today, 41% of all Girl Scout awards (Try-Its, Badges and Interest Project Patches) are related to STEM topics.  As part of its STEM programming, GSUSA has partnered with NASA to provide the Girl Scouts access to educational materials and experts that enrich girl program experiences.

“We are really excited to collaborate with Celestron as part of our STEM programming,” said Kate Pickle, STEM Project Manager.  “SkyScout is a fantastic learning aid that will be a great tool to kindle the curiosity of our girls and provide them with a fun, interactive way to push boundaries, test limits, and look at the world around them with inquisitive eyes.”


About the size of a camcorder and weighing less than 16 ounces, the SkyScout utilizes a consumer-friendly “point and shoot” GPS technology that enables stargazers to instantly identify and/or locate over 6,000 celestial objects in the sky with the press of a button and listen to commentary on the object and its history. The SkyScout also has a “locate” feature that allows users to select an object they wish to view (i.e. Mars) and the SkyScout, using illuminated arrows in the viewfinder, will point the user to the object.

“Teaming-up with the Girl Scouts’ STEM program is a perfect partnership for us. As today's Girl Scouts are preparing to take on the 21st century's many technological opportunities and challenges, SkyScout makes science and technology, approachable and fun for all,” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron.  “SkyScout is the ideal tool for people of all ages that have ever looked up at the night sky and had a desire to know more about the objects that make-up our surrounding universe.”

The formal donation was made today at a STEM program ceremony during the Girl Scouts’ STEM training, when Celestron gave a demonstration to STEM program participants and local Girl Scouts and presented the Girl Scouts with a check for the value of the donation, approximately $40,000.  

About Girl Scouts of the USA
With nearly 3.7 million members throughout the United States, its territories, and globally, the Girl Scouts aim to build character and skills among girls for success in the real world. The Girl Scouts develop lifelong qualities through values-based leadership training. For more information on the Girl Scouts, please visit http://www.girlscouts.org.

About Celestron
Celestron is a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes.  Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron has grown to become one of the world’s leading telescope makers, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology.  Celestron’s innovative products continue to receive numerous industry and consumer media accolades, adding to an already impressive list that includes awards for product innovation from Reader’s Digest, Popular Science, PC Magazine, Popular Mechanics, the Consumer Electronics Association and more.  Celestron sells and markets its products worldwide through a variety of specialty retail outlets and international distributors.  Celestron is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA.  For more information about Celestron and the SkyScout product please visit, http://www.celestron.com and http://www.myskyscout.com.

The Universe: Get Your Mind Blown Sweepstakes Sponsored by The History Channel Gives Viewers a Chance To Extend Their Knowledge of The Universe With SkyScout® Personal Planetariums™ And NexStar® 60 SLT Computerized Telescopes

TORRANCE, CA – (July 13, 2007) – Celestron®, a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes, is teaming up with The History Channel® and its new series The Universe, to give space enthusiasts a chance to win a trip to Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex and a cache of award-winning Celestron products, including the revolutionary SkyScout® Personal Planetarium™ and the NexStar® 60 SLT computerized telescope. Consumers are encouraged to watch The Universe Tuesdays at 9pm/8c then enter the sweepstakes by logging on to http://www.history.com/universe/sweepstakes/index.jsp, from July 11th to September 11th, 2007, to test their “universe” of knowledge in an online trivia game for the chance to win mind blowing prizes.

About the size of a camcorder and weighing less than 16 ounces, the Celestron SkyScout utilizes a consumer-friendly “point and shoot” GPS technology that enables stargazers to instantly identify and/or locate over 6,000 celestial objects in the sky with the press of a button and listen to commentary on the object and its history.

Recipient of numerous awards, honors and many accolades, SkyScout has been named “Best of America” by the editors of Reader’s Digest magazine, is the 2006 titleholder of PC Magazine’s Last Gadget Standing and is a recipient of Backpacker magazine and Popular Mechanic’s Editors’ Choice Awards.

Designed to be an affordable entry level to mid-level computerized telescope, the NexStar Star Locating Telescopes (SLT) are loaded with features designed to make astronomy fun, exciting and most importantly, easy for star watchers of all experience levels. Each of the NexStar SLT telescopes uses Celestron’s innovative SkyAlign® technology to automatically align the telescope for optimum viewing of any star, planet or galaxy.

"We are proud supporters of programs that delve into the fascinating mysteries of the Universe," said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron. “Having provided our own spectacular celestial views to stargazers for almost five decades with computerized telescopes, astrophotography tools and educational tools like the SkyScout, we look forward to hearing the details and fascinating stories behind space discoveries from the scientists and explorers who have made them possible, as only The History Channel can tell them.”

The Universe series premiered on The History Channel on May 29, 2007. From the planets to the stars and out to the edge of the unknown, history and science collide in the new series The Universe. Using cutting-edge computer graphics, this series brings the Universe down to earth to show what life would be like on other planets, to imagine what life forms might evolve in alien atmospheres and to examine how discoveries have been made. Episodes include “Secrets of the Sun,” “The End of the Earth,” “Saturn: Life and Death of A Star,” and more.

About The History Channel®
The History Channel® is a leading cable television network featuring compelling original, non-fiction specials and series that bring history to life in a powerful and entertaining manner across multiple platforms. The network provides an inviting place where people experience history in new and exciting ways enabling them to connect their lives today to the great lives and events of the past that provide a blueprint for the future. The History Channel has earned four Peabody Awards, three Primetime Emmy® Awards, ten News & Documentary Emmy® Awards and received the prestigious Governor's Award from the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences for the network's Save Our History® campaign dedicated to historic preservation and history education. The History Channel reaches more than 93 million Nielsen subscribers. The website is located at www.History.com. Press Only: For more information and photography please visit us on the web at http://www.historychannelpress.com.

About Celestron
Celestron is a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes. Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron has grown to become one of the world’s leading telescope makers, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology. Celestron’s innovative products continue to receive numerous industry and consumer media accolades, adding to an already impressive list that includes awards for product innovation from Reader’s Digest, Popular Science, PC Magazine, Popular Mechanics, the Consumer Electronics Association and more. Celestron sells and markets its products worldwide through a variety of specialty retail outlets and international distributors. Celestron is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA. For more information about Celestron and the SkyScout product please visit, http://www.celestron.com and http://www.myskyscout.com.

For the 39^th time, amateur astronomers from all over gathered at Big Bear, CA to see the newest astronomical toys.

Celestron was on hand to showcase new products and participate in the nightly star party.

Celestron is a proud sponsor and contributing manufacturer of raffle prizes to RTMC.

A look inside the Celestron booth at RTMC .


A winner of Celestron SkyScout raffle.


Celestron Assistant Marketing Manager, Michelle Meskill with a happy winner of the Celestron CPC 800 GPS raffle.


Celestron staff working the booth at RTMC 2007.


Celestron founder, Tom Johnson, with the CGE 1400.


Celestron Repair Supervisor, Kevin Kawai (left) and Repair Technician Hector Antuna "manning the guns" at the RTMC 2007.


Celestron Team at the RTMC 2007 .

Revolutionary Celestial Exploration Device Will Compete For Best New Product At The 5th Annual Stevie® Awards To Be Presented June 11th in New York City

TORRANCE, CA – (May 14, 2007) – The Celestron SkyScout was named a Best New Product finalist, today, in the 2007 American Business Awards.  The award ceremony will take place on June 11, 2007 at the 5th Annual Stevie® Award gala at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City.

Hailed as “the business world’s own Oscars” (New York Post, April 27, 2005), The American Business Awards are the only national, all-encompassing awards program honoring great performances in business.

More than 700 executives from across the U.S.A. are expected to attend the gala on June 11th.  The ceremonies will be videocast on the Internet and broadcast on radio, and hosted by Larry Wilmore of TV’s THE DAILY SHOW with JON STEWART.

About the size of a camcorder and weighing less than 16 ounces, the Celestron SkyScout utilizes a consumer-friendly “point and shoot” GPS technology that enables stargazers to instantly identify and/or locate over 6,000 celestial objects in the sky with the press of a button and listen to commentary on the object and its history. The SkyScout also has a “locate” feature that allows users to select an object they wish to view (i.e. Mars) and the SkyScout, using illuminated arrows in the viewfinder, will point the user to the object.  A totally unique, one-of-a-kind product, SkyScout utilizes patented technology that combines data from sensors measuring both the magnetic and gravitational fields of the Earth, along with internal GPS and a substantial celestial database to dramatically improve how people learn about astronomy, making it much easier and more entertaining.

Among its many accolades, the SkyScout has been named “Best of America” by the editors of Reader’s Digest magazine, the “Best of Innovations” in the personal electronics category for the annual showcase of new products at the 2006 Consumer Electronics Show, 2006 title holder of PC Magazine’s Last Gadget Standing and is a recipient of Popular Mechanic’s Editor’s Choice Award.

“Being named a Finalist in The American Business Awards is an important achievement,” said Michael Gallagher, founder and president of The Stevie Awards.  “It means that independent business executives have agreed that the nominee is worthy of national recognition.  We congratulate all of the Finalists on their achievement and wish them well in the competition.”

More than 2,000 entries from companies of all sizes and in virtually every industry were submitted for consideration in more than 40 categories.  

“As Celestron approaches 50 years as a designer and manufacturer of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes and other optical devices, we are thrilled to be recognized amongst such a prestigious group of companies,” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron.  “The SkyScout dramatically improves how people learn about astronomy, making it easier and more entertaining, and we’re happy to see it embraced by the business community.”

Members of the Awards' Board of Distinguished Judges & Advisors and their staffs will select Stevie Award winners this week from among Finalists.   Finalists were chosen by business professionals nationwide during preliminary judging in April through early May.

Details about The American Business Awards and the list of Finalists in all categories are available at www.stevieawards.com/aba.  

About Celestron
Founded in the 1950’s, Celestron is a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes.  As the second largest telescope maker worldwide, Celestron is a leader in the sale of performance telescopes and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology.  Celestron sells and markets its products worldwide through a variety of specialty retail outlets and international distributors.  Celestron is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA.  For more information about Celestron and the SkyScout product please visit, http://www.celestron.com and http://www.myskyscout.com.

About The Stevie Awards
Hailed as “the business world’s own Oscars,” Stevie Awards are conferred in four programs: The American Business Awards, The International Business Awards, The Stevie Awards for Women in Business, and the Selling Power Sales Excellence Awards.  Honoring companies of all types and sizes and the people behind them, the Stevies recognize outstanding performances in the workplace worldwide.  Learn more about The Stevie Awards at http://www.stevieawards.com.

In Time For Summer Stargazing Season, Celestron Bolsters A Lifetime Of Learning And Exploration With The Unveiling Of An Online Resource For Astronomy Buffs and SkyScout Enthusiasts

TORRANCE, CA – (May 7, 2007) – Celestron, one of the world’s leading designers and manufacturers of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, microscopes and related accessories, officially announced the launch of an interactive online meeting place for SkyScout and astronomy enthusiasts, MySkyScout.com. In time for the summer outdoor season, Celestron SkyScout’s new web community provides earth-bound space explorers with an interactive online forum for sharing ideas, experiences, tips and tricks with fellow stargazers and SkyScout enthusiasts.

Designed to support the growing interest in astronomy and exploration created by the release of Celestron’s SkyScout Personal Planetarium, a handheld device that identifies stars, planets, and constellations with point and click convenience, MySkyScout.com is a premier online companion to SkyScout owners and astronomy enthusiasts alike.

A fully integrated news and discussion forum for SkyScout owners, astronomy buffs and backyard stargazers to learn, share and discuss their interests and experiences with astronomy-minded peers, mySkyScout.com features real time information on current celestial events and astronomical happenings, updated news and images, links to product support, software updates, product development news in addition to advice from fellow amateur astronomers.

“mySkyScout.com gives astronomy enthusiasts and backyard stargazers of all ages and experience levels a place to share their experiences and learn about all that the night sky has to offer,” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron. “SkyScout explorers all have a desire to talk about and share their experiences with each other as their thirst for knowledge is piqued through SkyScout use. The interactive nature of mySkyScout.com makes it a tremendous resource for backyard astronomers’ growing knowledge of the universe and maximizing the SkyScout experience.”

About SkyScout
About the size of a camcorder and weighing less than 16 ounces, the Celestron SkyScout utilizes a consumer-friendly “point and shoot” GPS technology. In addition to its identify feature, the SkyScout also has a “locate” feature that allows users to select an object they wish to view (i.e. Mars) and the SkyScout, using illuminated arrows in the viewfinder, will point the user to the object. A totally unique, one-of-a-kind product, SkyScout utilizes patented technology that combines data from sensors measuring both the magnetic and gravitational fields of the Earth, along with internal GPS and a substantial celestial database to dramatically improve how people learn about astronomy, making it much easier and more entertaining. Visit http://www.myskyscout.com for more information.

About Celestron
Celestron is a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes. Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron has grown to become one of the world’s leading telescope makers, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology. Celestron’s innovative products continue to receive numerous industry and consumer media accolades, adding to an already impressive list that includes awards for product innovation from Reader’s Digest, Popular Science, PC Magazine, Popular Mechanics, the Consumer Electronics Association and more. Celestron sells and markets its products worldwide through a variety of specialty retail outlets and international distributors. Celestron is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA. For more information about Celestron please visit http://www.celestron.com.

Portable, Durable, Lightweight Celestial Exploration Device Receives Editor’s Highest Honors For Innovation In Design, Materials and Performance

TORRANCE, CA – (March 13, 2007) – The April issue of Backpacker magazine, which hits stands March 13th, heralds Celestron’s SkyScout personal planetarium, the innovative handheld GPS stargazing device, as one of the “best of the year,” honoring it with a 2007 Editor’s Choice Award.

Bestowed annually since 1993, the Backpacker Editor’s Choice awards are given to products in recognition of their outstanding innovation in design, materials and performance. Enabling stargazers to instantly identify and/or locate over 6,000 celestial objects in the sky with the press of a button, and listen to commentary on the object and its history, Celestron’s SkyScout was one of only 16 products chosen to receive this award in 2007.

“This year’s winners withstood the most rigorous testing process yet,” said Editor-In-Chief Jonathan Dorn. “Our test team started off with 49 new products, narrowing them down to a final 20 after months of trail testing. The finalists were then taken on extreme outdoor adventures from Oregon in a streak of epic weather, to a wind-whipped day at Mt. Hood. Those that survived have earned the distinction of becoming the 2007 Editor’s Choice Award Winners.”

About the size of a camcorder and weighing less than 16 ounces, the Celestron SkyScout utilizes a consumer-friendly “point and shoot” GPS technology. In addition to its identify feature, the SkyScout also has a “locate” feature that allows users to select an object they wish to view (i.e. Mars) and the SkyScout, using illuminated arrows in the viewfinder, will point the user to the object. A totally unique, one-of-a-kind product, SkyScout utilizes patented technology that combines data from sensors measuring both the magnetic and gravitational fields of the Earth, along with internal GPS and a substantial celestial database to dramatically improve how people learn about astronomy, making it much easier and more entertaining.

“We are thrilled to be recognized by the magazine that sets the gold-standard for outdoor equipment,” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron. “Not only does the SkyScout transform the night sky into a personal planetarium, it also fits into a backpack, making it easy for ‘adventurers’ of all levels and backgrounds to truly view the exceptional splendor of the night sky during outdoor activities like camping or hiking.”

The complete list of Backpacker 2007 Editor’s Choice Award winners will be officially announced in the magazine’s April issue, scheduled to be available on March 13th.

About Backpacker
The authority on active adventure, Backpacker is the world’s first GPS-enabled magazine, and it’s the only magazine where editors personally test the hiking trails, camping gear and survival tips they publish. Backpacker’s six regional editions offer accessible, close-to-home getaways with detailed, tear-out maps to dozens of nearby hikes, as well as practical tips camping and the best gear information available. Published by Rodale Inc., Backpacker has a circulation of 340,000, is published 9 times a year, and last year was a recipient of a coveted National Magazine Award for excellence. Backpacker’s companion website, http://www.backpacker.com is updated daily.

About Celestron
Celestron, is a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes.  Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron  has grown to become one of the world’s leading telescope makers, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology.  Celestron’s innovative products continue to receive numerous industry and consumer media accolades, adding to an already impressive list that includes awards for product innovation from Reader’s Digest, Popular Science, PC Magazine, Popular Mechanics, the Consumer Electronics Association and more.  Celestron sells and markets its products worldwide through a variety of specialty retail outlets and international distributors. Celestron is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA.

For more information about Celestron and the SkyScout product please visit, http://www.celestron.com and http://www.celestron.com/skyscout.

AVAILABLE AUGUST 2007, THE INNOVATIVE SKYTOUR CARDS UTILIZE SKYSCOUT’S GPS-ENABLED TECHNOLOGY TO TURN THE NIGHT SKY INTO A “BACKYARD BLACKBOARD” FOR FAMILIES, STUDENTS AND ASTRONOMERS ALIKE

TORRANCE, CA – (March 1, 2007) – Celestron, one of the world’s leading designers and manufacturers of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, microscopes and related accessories, officially announced the August 2007 availability of its eagerly anticipated SkyTour cards for use with its award-winning Celestron SkyScout. Utilizing the SkyScout’s built-in technology to identify and locate celestial objects in the night sky, Celestron’s Astronomy for Beginners and The Sky Explorer SkyTour cards fit easily into SkyScout's built-in SD slot and take stargazers on a 'real time' interactive cosmic journey of exploration and discovery that includes in-depth information on specific astronomy topics and more than 6,000 viewable celestial objects.

Celestron's Astronomy for Beginners SkyTour card, uses the SkyScout to guide users through an interactive tour of the night sky with lessons that address an array of astronomical topics including: a detailed tutorial and tour of the planets, stars, galaxies, clusters, nebulae, constellations, asterisms that are easily viewed in the night sky; a guide to astronomical distances between celestial objects; lessons in star-hopping and navigation; an in-depth look at the colors and types of stars; a study of celestial movement and the phases of the moon.

The Sky Explorer SkyTour card uses the SkyScout to guide users through a more detailed tour of the night sky with a focus on the Zodiacal constellations. The Sky Explorer SkyTour card takes users on a tour of the brightest and most interesting stars in each constellation, provides mythological and historical information pertaining to the origins of each constellation and demonstrates the easiest ways for users to learn and remember the position of the most popular constellations. The lessons conclude with an in-depth tour of the 'best' non-stellar objects (Planets, Nebulae, Galaxies and more).

"The interactive SkyTour cards are designed to equip budding backyard astronomers with the skills and desire to learn more about our Universe, satisfying the natural curiosity to explore new frontiers, and creating the thirst for knowledge that will inspire the next generation of explorers and scientists," said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron. "Together, the SkyScout and SkyTour cards transform the night sky into a personal planetarium, providing instant access to a universe of knowledge and adventure, and placing the ‘joystick of exploration’ in the hands of astronomy buffs and stargazers of all ages and experience levels."

In addition to new audio and text celestial content, each SkyTour card includes additional graphics for display on SkyScout’s backlit LCD screen, turning SkyScout into the ultimate reality teaching, and learning tool for kids, parents, teachers and students alike.

The Celestron’s SkyTour cards for SkyScout have a suggested retail price of $19, and are slated to be available beginning August of 2007. Visit http://www.celestron.com, for information on availability.

About Celestron
Celestron, is a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes.  Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron  has grown to become one of the world’s leading telescope makers, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology.  Celestron’s innovative products continue to receive numerous industry and consumer media accolades, adding to an already impressive list that includes awards for product innovation from Reader’s Digest, Popular Science, PC Magazine, Popular Mechanics, the Consumer Electronics Association and more.  Celestron sells and markets its products worldwide through a variety of specialty retail outlets and international distributors. Celestron is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA. For more information about Celestron please visit http://www.celestron.com.

AVAILABLE SUMMER 2007, THE INNOVATIVE SKYTOUR CARDS UTILIZE SKYSCOUT’S AWARD-WINNING GPS-ENABLED TECHNOLOGY TO TURN EVERY BACKYARD INTO AN INTERACTIVE CLASSROOM FOR FAMILIES, STUDENTS AND ASTRONOMERS ALIKE

CES BOOTH #70422 - SANDS EXPO

TORRANCE, CA – (January 6, 2007) – Celestron, one of the world’s leading designers and manufacturers of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, microscopes and related accessories, officially announced today at 2007 International CES, the Summer 2007 availability of SkyTour cards for use with its award-winning Celestron SkyScout. Utilizing the SkyScout’s built-in technology to identify and locate celestial objects in the night sky, Celestron’s Astronomy for Beginners and The Sky Explorer SkyTour cards fit easily into SkyScout’s built-in SD slot and take stargazers on a ‘real time’ interactive cosmic journey of exploration and discovery that includes in-depth information on specific astronomy topics and more than 6,000 viewable celestial objects.

Celestron’s Astronomy for Beginners SkyTour card, uses the SkyScout to guide users through an interactive tour of the night sky with lessons that address an array of astronomical topics including: a detailed tutorial and tour of the planets, stars, galaxies, clusters, nebulae, constellations, asterisms that are easily viewed in the night sky; a guide to astronomical distances between celestial objects; lessons in star-hopping and navigation; an in-depth look at the colors and types of stars; a study of celestial movement and the phases of the moon.

The Sky Explorer SkyTour card uses the SkyScout to guide users through a more detailed tour of the night sky with a focus on the Zodiacal constellations. The Sky Explorer SkyTour card takes users on a tour of the brightest and most interesting stars in each constellation, provides mythological and historical information pertaining to the origins of each constellation and demonstrates the easiest ways for users to learn and remember the position of the most popular constellations. The lessons conclude with an in-depth tour of the ‘best’ non-stellar objects (Planets, Nebulae, Galaxies and more).

“The interactive SkyTour cards are designed to equip budding backyard astronomers with the skills and desire to learn more about our Universe, satisfying the natural curiosity to explore new frontiers, and creating the thirst for knowledge that will inspire the next generation of explorers and scientists,” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron. “Together, the SkyScout and SkyTour cards transform the night sky into a personal planetarium, providing instant access to a universe of knowledge and adventure, and placing the ‘joystick of exploration’ in the hands of astronomy buffs and stargazers of all ages and experience levels.”

In addition to new audio and text on celestial content, each SkyTour card includes additional graphics for display on SkyScout’s backlit LCD screen, turning SkyScout into the ultimate reality teaching, and learning tool for kids, parents, teachers and students alike.

The Celestron’s SkyTour cards for SkyScout have a suggested retail price of $19, and are slated to be available beginning Summer of 2007. Visit http://www.celestron.com, for information on availability.

In addition to more information on the release of Celestron’s SkyTour Cards, Celestron will be showcasing its VistaPix IS70 Digital Spotting Scope (2007 Innovation’s Honoree) and the NexStar SE series of computerized telescopes at Celestron’s booth #70422, in the Sands Expo from January 8 – 11, 2007.

About Celestron
Celestron, is a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes.  Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron  has grown to become one of the world’s leading telescope makers, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology.  Celestron’s innovative products continue to receive numerous industry and consumer media accolades, adding to an already impressive list that includes awards for product innovation from Reader’s Digest, Popular Science, PC Magazine, Popular Mechanics, the Consumer Electronics Association and more.  Celestron sells and markets its products worldwide through a variety of specialty retail outlets and international distributors. Celestron is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA. For more information about Celestron please visit http://www.celestron.com.

Abel Chen with Columbia Astronaut C. Gordon Fullerton

Abel Chen looking through Celestron NexStar 4 SE

Celestron team at the event (photo courtesy of Justinhallerphoto.com)

SAPUTO CHEESE USA TEAMS WITH MAKE-A-WISH FOUNDATION® OF GREATER LOS ANGELES TO GRANT A DIAMOND BAR CHILD’S WISH TO WITNESS A SPACE SHUTTLE LAUNCH AND HUG AN ASTRONAUT

6-Year-Old Abel Chen Lives His Dream As He Visits Cape Canaveral For A Live Shuttle Launch And Hugs Columbia Astronaut C. Gordon Fullerton As Part Of The Foundation’s A Season of Wishes Holiday Campaign

LOS ANGELES (DECEMBER 12, 2006) – The Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Greater Los Angeles partnered with Saputo Cheese USA to fulfill the wish of 6-year-old aspiring space explorer Abel Chen, who is currently battling leukemia, as he lived out his dream when he visited Cape Canaveral to view a shuttle launch and hug an astronaut. Having recently returned from a weeklong trip to the Kennedy Center in Florida, Abel received a hero’s welcome this evening as he was arrived at The Grove’s Town Square to give a big hug to Columbia Astronaut C. Gordon Fullerton.

"Abel is one of the bravest boys I have ever met, it was genuinely heartwarming to watch his dream to hug an astronaut become reality," said Sandy Goldberg, Saputo Cheese Vice President of Dairy. "It has been fulfilling for all of us at Saputo to provide Abel with a week of space exploration and time with his heroes, and we encourage him to keep reaching for the stars in all that he does."

Immediately following the wish granting celebration, Saputo Cheese representative Sandy Goldberg presented Abel with a Celestron SkyScout, the ultimate star-gazing device which allows users to instantly identify and locate over 6,000 celestial objects using "point and shoot" GPS technology. Additionally, several high-powered Celestron telescopes were set up throughout The Grove's Town Square, and Abel’s family, friends and guests were all invited to a night of constellation spotting to celebrate the fulfillment of his lifelong dream.

Now in its second year, A Season of Wishes has expanded to provide all Southern California residents with numerous opportunities to witness the powerful impact that fulfilling a wish has on the lives of children battling life-threatening medical conditions through a series of public wish fulfillment celebrations that include "Weekly Wish Nights at The Grove,"where every Tuesday night during the holiday season at The Grove in Los Angeles, a wish child has their most heartfelt wish publicly granted.

"We appreciated having Saputo Cheese USA's support and participation in the fulfillment of Abel’s wish. Their involvement helped make this year’s A Season of Wishes especially magical," said Kelli Seely, president and CEO of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Greater Los Angeles. "Saputo has gone the extra mile toprovide Abel with a memorable and one-of-a-kind experience.Their gift of the Celestron SkyScout and donation of product to the wish party added an amazing enhancement to his week at the Kennedy Center to hugging a real life astronaut, and their efforts will help us raise awareness for the families we serve and fulfill the dreams of children with life-threatening medical conditions in the Los Angeles community."

About Saputo
Always with an expert hand, Saputo transforms into success the passion and initiative of the 8,500 dedicated men and women who work in its 46 plants around the world. Combining tradition and innovation, the Company produces, commercializes and distributes the highest quality products under such well-known brands as Saputo, Alexis de Portneuf, Armstrong, Baxter, Dairyland, De Lucia, Dragone, DuVillage de Warwick, Frigo, Kingsey, La Paulina, Nutrilait,Princesse, Ricrem, Sir Laurier d'Arthabaska, Stella, Treasure Cave, HOP&GO! and Vachon. As one of the top twenty dairy processors in the world, the largest dairy processor in Canada, amongst the top five cheese producers in the United States, the third largest dairy processor in Argentina and the largest snack-cake manufacturer in Canada, Saputo renews its commitment to excellence and growth every day. Saputo Inc. is a public company whose shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol SAP.

About the Make-A-Wish Foundation
The Make-A-Wish Foundation® grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. Born in 1980 when a group of caring individuals helped a young boy fulfill his dream of becoming a police officer, the Foundation is now the largest wish-granting charity in the world, with 69 chapters in the U.S. and its territories. With the help of generous donors and nearly 25,000 volunteers, the Make-A-Wish Foundation grants more than 12,500 wishes a year and has granted more than 141,000 wishes in the U.S. since inception.

For more information about your local Make-A-Wish Foundation chapter or to lend your support to the A Season of Wishes campaign go to www.aseasonofwishes.org or call 1-888-217-WISH.

The Premiere Adventure Magazine honors portable Celestial Exploration Device For Its Innovation, Utility, Functionality, Value And Design

TORRANCE, CA – (November 15, 2006) – Celestron’s SkyScout personal planetarium has been named “Best of Adventure Gear” by National Geographic Adventure’s fourth annual year-end “Best of Adventure” gear awards. Judged to be a leader in innovation, utility, functionality, value and design by National Geographic Adventurer Magazine and its 45-member advisory board, the innovative handheld GPS stargazing device was awarded at a gala event held at the National Geographic Society headquarters in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday November 14, 2006. As a “Best of Adventure” gear winner, SkyScout will be on display at various adventure events throughout January and March 2007.

"National Geographic Adventure's ‘Best of Adventure Gear Awards’ expert advisory board, made up of the nation’s leading outdoor retailers, are the real experts on the ground, and provide us with added insight as to what today’s outdoor adventure enthusiasts are excited about this year,” said National Geographic Adventure Editor in Chief John Rasmus. “We are always seeking out new and innovative gear like the SkyScout, that is in line with our mission of inspiring a lifetime of exploration and discovery among our adventurous and active audience.”

About the size of a camcorder and weighing less than 16 ounces, the Celestron SkyScout utilizes a consumer-friendly “point and shoot” GPS technology that enables stargazers to instantly identify and/or locate over 6,000 celestial objects in the sky with the press of a button and listen to commentary on the object and its history. The SkyScout also has a “locate” feature that allows users to select an object they wish to view and the SkyScout, using illuminated arrows in the viewfinder, will point the user to the object. A totally unique, one-of-a-kind product, SkyScout utilizes patented technology that combines data from sensors measuring both the magnetic and gravitational fields of the Earth, along with internal GPS and a substantial celestial database to dramatically improve how people learn about astronomy, making it much easier and more entertaining.

“Celestron has been engineering telescopes, spotting scopes, binoculars and microscopes for close to 50 years, and while most of our products are ideal for exploring the night sky, many are too cumbersome for an adventure hike,” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron. “The SkyScout is a light, small, durable viewing device that transforms the night sky into a personal planetarium for ‘adventurers’ of all levels and backgrounds and we are thrilled to be recognized by the magazine that knows adventure best.”

About National Geographic Adventure Magazine
National Geographic Adventure, winner of four National Magazine Awards, including the 2003 Award for Leisure Interests and the 2002 Award for General Excellence, was launched in 1999 as a quarterly to serve an audience of active, adventurous readers and to propel National Geographic’s mission of exploration and discovery into the new century. The magazine rapidly expanded in both publishing frequency and circulation size. Now published 10 times a year, with a rate base of 525,000, it is available by subscription (800-NGS-LINE) and on newsstands in the United States ($4.95) and Canada ($6.95). The magazine’s Web site is www.nationalgeographic.com/adventure.

About Celestron
Celestron, is a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes.  Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron  has grown to become one of the world’s leading telescope makers, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology.  Celestron’s innovative products continue to receive numerous industry and consumer media accolades, adding to an already impressive list that includes awards for product innovation from Reader’s Digest, Popular Science, PC Magazine, Popular Mechanics, the Consumer Electronics Association and more.  Celestron sells and markets its products worldwide through a variety of specialty retail outlets and international distributors. Celestron is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA. For more information about Celestron and the SkyScout product please visit, http://www.celestron.com or http://www.celestron.com/skyscout.

Portable, Celestial Exploration, Education And Entertainment Device Named One Of 2006’s Most Stunning Innovations By The World’s Largest Science And Technology Magazine

TORRANCE, CA – (November 9, 2006) – Celestron's SkyScout personal planetarium, the innovative handheld GPS stargazing device, has been named "Best of What's New" by the editors of Popular Science magazine. The magazine's 19th annual "Best of What's New" issue features the top 100 breakthrough products and technologies that represent a significant leap in their categories. Popular Science's best-read issue of the year, the December issue hits newsstands November 14th.

" 'Best of What's New' is the ultimate Popular Science accolade, representing a year's worth of work evaluating thousands of products," says Mark Jannot, editor of Popular Science. "These awards honor innovations that not only influence the way we live today, but that change the way we think about the future."

About the size of a camcorder and weighing less than 16 ounces, the Celestron SkyScout utilizes a consumer-friendly "point and shoot" GPS technology that enables stargazers to instantly identify and/or locate over 6,000 celestial objects in the sky with the press of a button and listen to commentary on the object and its history. The SkyScout also has a "locate" feature that allows users to select an object they wish to view (i.e. Mars) and the SkyScout, using illuminated arrows in the viewfinder, will point the user to the object. A totally unique, one-of-a-kind product, SkyScout utilizes patented technology that combines data from sensors measuring both the magnetic and gravitational fields of the Earth, along with internal GPS and a substantial celestial database to dramatically improve how people learn about astronomy, making it much easier and more entertaining.

"SkyScout transforms the night sky into a personal planetarium that engages astronomy buffs and stargazers, as well as families, students, campers and 'ordinary people' of all levels and backgrounds," said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron. "To have Popular Science recognize SkyScout as a product that brings science into everyday life, reaffirms that after five years in development, now is the right time for SkyScout to be available to consumers."

About Best of What's New
Each year, the editors of Popular Science review thousands of products in search of the top 100 tech innovations of the year; breakthrough products and technologies that represent a significant leap in their categories. The winners — the Best of What's New — are awarded inclusion in the much-anticipated December issue of Popular Science, the most widely read issue of the year since the debut of Best of What's New in 1987. Best of What's New awards are presented to 100 new products and technologies in 10 categories: Automotive, Aviation & Space, Computing, Engineering, Gadgets, General Innovation, Home Entertainment, Home Tech, Personal Health and Recreation.

About Popular Science
Founded in 1872, Popular Science is the world's largest science and technology magazine; with a circulation of 1.45 million and 6.5 million monthly readers. Each month, Popular Science reports on the intersection of science and everyday life, with an eye toward what's new and why it matters. Popular Science is published by Time4 Media, a subsidiary of Time Inc., which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Time Warner Inc.

About Celestron
Celestron, is a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes.  Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron  has grown to become one of the world’s leading telescope makers, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology.  Celestron’s innovative products continue to receive numerous industry and consumer media accolades, adding to an already impressive list that includes awards for product innovation from Reader’s Digest, Popular Science, PC Magazine, Popular Mechanics, the Consumer Electronics Association and more.  Celestron sells and markets its products worldwide through a variety of specialty retail outlets and international distributors. Celestron is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA. For more information about Celestron and the SkyScout product please visit, http://www.celestron.com and http://www.celestron.com/skyscout.

Torrance, Ca (September 12, 2006)

On August 24th, astronomers from the International Astronomical Union declared that Pluto is no longer a planet under historic new guidelines that downsize the solar system from nine planets to eight. Celestron was quick to react to this news of cosmic magnitude with the release of the updated SkyScout firmware. Though Pluto is still listed in the planet menu, the new firmware enables our award winning personal planetarium to correctly identify Pluto's new status as a dwarf planet in a revised text description.

SkyScout users can utilize the SkyScout Update Software, distributed with the device to download and install the latest firmware. For detailed instructions on performing this update please visit SkyScout minisite.

The SkyScout is a revolutionary handheld device that uses advanced GPS technology with point and click convenience to identify thousands of stars, planets, constellations and more. For more information about SkyScout please visit http://www.celestron.com/skyscout.

Celestron, is a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes.  Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron  has grown to become one of the world’s leading telescope makers, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology.  Celestron’s innovative products continue to receive numerous industry and consumer media accolades, adding to an already impressive list that includes awards for product innovation from Reader’s Digest, Popular Science, PC Magazine, Popular Mechanics, the Consumer Electronics Association and more.  Celestron sells and markets its products worldwide through a variety of specialty retail outlets and international distributors. Celestron is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA. For more information about Celestron please visit http://www.celestron.com.

SkyScout Personal Planetariums Donated To Scout Camps Nationwide

WASHINGTON D.C. (May 23, 2006) – The Boy Scouts of America (BSA), the nation’s foremost youth character development program, in partnership with Celestron, a leading designer and manufacturer of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes, announced a joint program to encourage interest in space exploration and astronomy among America’s youth, beginning with a donation of 200 Celestron SkyScouts.

Each year in the BSA program, nearly 50,000 boys earn merit badges in space exploration and astronomy. To enhance their learning experience, Celestron is donating the SkyScout units to the astronomy programs at all high adventure and approximately half of the BSA summer resident camps nationwide. Last year more than 1.2 million youth attended a Boy Scout summer or high adventure camp.

The formal donation was made today at a kick-off event during the BSA’s National Annual Meeting, when Celestron gave a demonstration to BSA camp directors and local Scouts and presented the BSA with a check for the value of the donation, approximately $80,000.

“American youth have always had a natural curiosity to explore new frontiers including our universe and space in general,” said Dave Bates, director of Boy Scout camping and conservation. “During the past century nearly 1 million Scouts have earned merit badges in Astronomy and space exploration-related topics. This donation of Celestron SkyScouts will further allow BSA to inspire Scouts to explore and discover our universe.”

About the size of a camcorder and weighing less than 16 ounces, the SkyScout utilizes a consumer-friendly “point and shoot” GPS technology that enables stargazers to instantly identify and/or locate over 6,000 celestial objects in the sky with the press of a button and listen to commentary on the object and its history. The SkyScout also has a “locate” feature that allows users to select an object they wish to view (i.e. Mars) and the SkyScout, using illuminated arrows in the viewfinder, will point the user to the object.

“Simply put, SkyScout is the perfect tool for any one that has ever looked up at the night sky and had a desire to know more about the objects that make-up our surrounding universe,” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron. “Teaming-up with the BSA is a perfect fit for us, in that we both share the desire to grow the budding curiosity of today’s young people who will launch the space and science developments of tomorrow.”

Serving nearly 4.5 million young people between 7 and 20 years of age with more than 300 councils throughout the United States and its territories, the Boy Scouts of America is the nation’s foremost youth program of character development and values-based leadership training. For more information on the BSA, please visit http://www.scouting.org.

Celestron, is a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes.  Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron  has grown to become one of the world’s leading telescope makers, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology.  Celestron’s innovative products continue to receive numerous industry and consumer media accolades, adding to an already impressive list that includes awards for product innovation from Reader’s Digest, Popular Science, PC Magazine, Popular Mechanics, the Consumer Electronics Association and more.  Celestron sells and markets its products worldwide through a variety of specialty retail outlets and international distributors. Celestron is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA. For more information about Celestron and the SkyScout product please visit, http://www.celestron.com and http://www.celestron.com/skyscout.

 

Portable, Celestial Exploration, Education And Entertainment Device Awarded By The Magazine That Celebrates The Extraordinary For The Ordinary

PLEASANTVILLE, NY (April 10, 2006) – Celestron’s SkyScout personal planetarium, the innovative handheld GPS stargazing device, has been named “Best of America” by the editors of Reader’s Digest magazine. This celebration of the quirky, amazing and truly extraordinary is featured in the May issue, on newsstands April 18.

After speaking to hundreds of experts and ordinary folk, the editors tested, tasted and debated everything from the Best Sandwich to the Best Must-Have Gadgets to the Best Buzz Cut. The resulting list is organized in six categories – Legacies, Passions, Adventure, Innovations, Time Off and Connections.

“Our country is full of hidden treasures, creative products and inspiring stories that often don’t grab the national spotlight,” said Reader’s Digest Editor-in-Chief Jackie Leo. “We had great fun putting this lively and surprising issue together.”

About the size of a camcorder and weighing less than 16 ounces, the Celestron SkyScout utilizes a consumer-friendly “point and shoot” GPS technology that enables stargazers to instantly identify and/or locate over 6,000 celestial objects in the sky with the press of a button and listen to commentary on the object and its history. The SkyScout also has a “locate” feature that allows users to select an object they wish to view (i.e. Mars) and the SkyScout, using illuminated arrows in the viewfinder, will point the user to the object.

A totally unique, one-of-a-kind product, SkyScout utilizes patented technology that combines data from sensors measuring both the magnetic and gravitational fields of the Earth, along with internal GPS and a substantial celestial database to dramatically improve how people learn about astronomy, making it much easier and more entertaining.

“SkyScout transforms the night sky into a personal planetarium that engages astronomy buffs and stargazers, as well as families, students, campers and ‘ordinary people’ of all levels and backgrounds,” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron. “After five years in development, it is rewarding to see the SkyScout recognized by America’s premier consumer magazine, reaffirming that the timing is right for SkyScout’s introduction into the consumer marketplace.”

Reader’s Digest “America’s 100 Best” can be identified by state or category on www.rd.com/boa where readers can nominate entries for next year’s collection.

About Reader’s Digest

Reader’s Digest reaches about 80 million readers worldwide each month. The magazine celebrates ordinary people doing extraordinary things, and delivers a compelling mix of humor, personal service and other human-interest stories. Reader’s Digest is published in 20 languages and 50 editions worldwide.

About Celestron

Celestron, is a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes.  Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron  has grown to become one of the world’s leading telescope makers, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology.  Celestron’s innovative products continue to receive numerous industry and consumer media accolades, adding to an already impressive list that includes awards for product innovation from Reader’s Digest, Popular Science, PC Magazine, Popular Mechanics, the Consumer Electronics Association and more.  Celestron sells and markets its products worldwide through a variety of specialty retail outlets and international distributors. Celestron is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA. For more information about Celestron and the SkyScout product please visit, http://www.celestron.com and http://www.celestron.com/skyscout.

# # #

 

Media Contact(s):
William Ostedt/Lisa Townsend
The Pollack PR Marketing Group
310-556-4443

Celestron Contact:
Jennifer Adams
Marketing Manager
310-328-9560 ext. 298

CELESTRON ® SKYSCOUT™ TAKES HOME TOP HONORS FROM CONSUMER ELECTRONICS ASSOCIATION

Portable, Celestial Exploration, Education And Entertainment Device Judged, “Best Of Innovations” In Personal Electronics For Putting The Universe Within Reach Of All

TORRANCE, CA – (November 15, 2005) – SkyScout, made by Celestron, one of the world’s leading designers and manufacturers of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes, was named the ”Best of Innovations” in the personal electronics category, today, at the annual must-see showcase of new products at the Consumer Electronic Show (CES) New York Press Preview.

Set to be introduced at the 2006 International Consumer Electronics Show, in January, the Celestron SkyScout is a handheld, portable celestial viewing device that can instantly identify and/or locate over 6,000 celestial objects viewable to the naked eye, transforming the night sky into a personal planetarium for stargazers, families, students and astronomers alike.

Celestron will officially introduce its revolutionary SkyScout at “CES Unveiled: The Official Press Event of CES” on Tuesday, January 3, 2006 from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM in the Bellini Ballroom at the Sands Expo and Convention Center in Las Vegas. Beginning on January 4 th, the Celestron SkyScout will be available to CES attendees in the Celestron booth, #70613, also at the Sands Expo and Convention Center.

“We are thankful to the CEA and the innovations judges for honoring our company with this award. We set out to develop a product that would aid consumers in bridging the ‘astronomy-learning gap,’ and this award reaffirms that the timing is right for the SkyScout’s introduction,” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron. “Having produced many of the industry’s highest quality optical products for amateur astronomers for more than four decades, we know that there is a whole new generation of budding backyard stargazing enthusiasts that will now have the technology product they need to take their knowledge of the Universe to the next level.”

“The Celestron SkyScout can be used to accompany a telescope, be taken on camping trips to explore the night’s sky and can be used as a learning tool for students of astronomy young and old alike,” said Richard Hedrick, senior vice president and CTO of Celestron. “SkyScout will be a great, easy-to-use educational aid for parents searching to answer their child’s seemingly ‘unanswerable’ questions about the sky.”

About the size of a camcorder and weighing less than 16 ounces, the Celestron SkyScout utilizes a consumer-friendly “point and shoot” technology that enables stargazers to point at any visible object in the sky, press a button and listen to commentary on the object and its history. The SkyScout also has a “locate” feature that allows users to select an object they wish to view (i.e. Mars) and the SkyScout, using illuminated arrows in the viewfinder, will actually point the user to the object. A totally unique, one of a kind product, SkyScout utilizes patented technology that combines data from sensors measuring both the magnetic and gravitational fields of the Earth, along with internal GPS and a substantial celestial database to dramatically improve how people learn about astronomy, making it much easier and more entertaining.

About Celestron

Celestron, is a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes.  Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron  has grown to become one of the world’s leading telescope makers, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology.  Celestron’s innovative products continue to receive numerous industry and consumer media accolades, adding to an already impressive list that includes awards for product innovation from Reader’s Digest, Popular Science, PC Magazine, Popular Mechanics, the Consumer Electronics Association and more.  Celestron sells and markets its products worldwide through a variety of specialty retail outlets and international distributors. Celestron is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA. For more information about Celestron and the SkyScout product please visit, http://www.celestron.com and http://www.celestron.com/skyscout .

Media Contact(s):
William Ostedt/Lisa Townsend
The Pollack PR Marketing Group
310-556-4443

Celestron Contact:
Jennifer Adams
Marketing Manager
310-328-9560 ext. 298

System Requirements:

• Windows NT, XP, 2003 and Vista.
• Not compatible with 64-bit systems.

Release Notes (1.0.20):

• Faster flashing of SkyScouts
• Faster downloads
• Reduced CPU load during downloads
• The SkyScout is turned off during downloads to conserve batteries
• The app now keeps track of the last download
• The ability to download in one session and flash in another (without internet connection)
  

 

[ ENGLISH | SPANISH ]

Q. When my Spanish language SkyScout (#93970-ES) is connected to my computer, the Upgrade Application displays the letters “-IT” after the serial number.

Q. When I upgraded the firmware on my Spanish language SkyScout, it converted the text and audio to Italian.

Answer:
When your SkyScout is connected to your computer via the USB cable, the SkyScout Upgrade Application will display the following information:

• Current firmware version
• Connection status
• Serial number of your SkyScout
• Voltage reading

If the serial number of your SkyScout displays any letters other than “-ES”, you will need to run the “ITtoESFix” program prior to upgrading the firmware.

To run the “ITtoESFix” program:

• Unzip the contents of the zip file into a new folder on your C: drive.
• Make sure the SkyScout is connected and powered on.
• Make sure SkyScout upgrade application is not running
• Press the Start Button
• Click on the Run Command
• Press the Browse Button in the Run box
• Find the folder where you saved the program and select the file called “ITtoESFix”
• Press the OK button to run the program.

Now you should be able to upload new firmware to your SkyScout.

SPANISH

Cuando el SkyScout esté conectado a su ordenador mediante el cable USB, la pantalla de aplicación de la actualización mostrará la siguiente información:

• Versión actual del firmware
• Estado de la conexión
• Número de serie de su SkyScout
• Voltaje de las pilas

Si el número de serie de su SkyScout muestra otras letras diferentes a “-ES”, usted deberá ejecutar el programa “ITtoESFix” antes de actualizar el firmware.

Para ejecutar el programa “ITtoESFix”:

• Extraiga el contenido del archivo zip en una nueva carpeta del disco C:
• Asegúrese que el SkyScout esté conectado al ordenador y encendido
• Compruebe que la aplicación de actualización del SkyScout no esté en ejecución
• Pulse sobre Inicio   en la esquina inferior izquierda de la pantalla Windows
• Pulse sobre el comando Ejecutar
• Pulse sobre la opción Examinar del cuadro Ejecutar
• Busque la carpeta donde descargó el programa y seleccione el archivo denominado "ITtoESFix"
• Pulse sobre Aceptar para ejecutar el programa.

Ahora podrá descargar nuevas actualizaciones en español en su SkyScout.