Torrance, CA (April 24, 2013) –Celestron, the world’s #1 telescope maker, wants to know: where do you Celestron?

Celestron is thrilled to introduce Where Do You Celestron, our yearlong campaign that brings our multiple industry-leading products to life through the vibrant personalities of the creators and users behind the optics. The campaign was officially unveiled at the 2013 Northeastern Astronomy Forum (NEAF) at Rockland Community College in Suffern, New York, with video interviews detailing how Celestron employees actively incorporate our products into their daily lives.

“With print ads, videos, social media, and a constantly updated website, Where Do You Celestron is truly an all-encompassing experience designed to excite and inspire,” said Dave Anderson, President and COO of Celestron. “We can’t wait to read all of your submissions detailing how a Celestron telescope, sport optic, or microscope has enriched your life.” 

The campaign is centered at WhereDoYouCelestron.com, where visitors can watch videos, read bios, and explore an interactive map. It’s up to you to populate the map with your stories from around the world, whether it’s stargazing with an AstroMaster telescope in a national park, spotting a rare bird through a pair of Granite binoculars, or watching a child’s face light up at seeing an amoeba under the InfiniView digital microscope.

The first 500 people to make their mark on the map will automatically be entered to win Celestron’s award-winning SkyProdigy 6 telescope. Visit WhereDoYouCelestron.com for more information and to share your story.

About Celestron

Celestron is a leading designer, manufacturer, and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, GPS devices, binoculars, spotting scopes, and microscopes. Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron has grown to become the world's #1 telescope maker, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology. Celestron’s extraordinary 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 is a privately-held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities in Torrance, California.

Media Contact:

Michelle Meskill, Marketing Manager
mmeskill@celestron.com
(310) 328-9560 x205

Lauren Stracner, Assistant Marketing Manager
lstracner@celestron.com
(310) 328-9560 x261

###

International Space Station (January 18, 2013) – The astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) just got that much closer to Earth with their latest crew member: a Celestron CPC 925. After arriving at the ISS in July 2012 onboard the Japanese HTV-3, the telescope—the latest component of ISERV (ISS SERVIR Environmental Research and Visualization System)—officially joined Expedition 34 and NASA’s SERVIR mission on Wednesday, January 16.

Canadian astronaut Colonel Chris Hadfield enthusiastically announced the installation of ISERV on his Twitter account: “Taking the telescope out of the box—like weightless Christmas!” Accompanying the tweets was a photo of the telescope floating next to Col. Hadfield’s beaming visage.

Celestron's 9.25” diffraction limited Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope is positioned within the Destiny module’s Earth-facing window. While remotely controlled from the planet’s surface, ISERV will monitor and assess environmental disasters, climate change, rainforest destruction, and air quality in various locations around the globe. It will also aid in short-term weather prediction.

“Images captured from ISERV on the ISS could provide valuable information back here on Earth,” explained Dan Irwin, SERVIR program director at Marshall Space Flight Center. “We hope it will provide new data and information from space related to natural disasters, environmental crises, and the increased effects of climate variability on human populations."

“ISERV will help advance Earth science research. We are all very excited and proud to see Celestron’s telescope assisting NASA’s quest for knowledge,” explained Corey Lee, Senior Vice President of Product Development at Celestron.

To view the latest images taken by ISERV, follow Celestron on Facebook and Twitter. Please visit Celestron.com and NASA.gov/mission_pages/servir/index.html 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, GPS devices, binoculars, spotting scopes, and microscopes. Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron has grown to become the world's #1 telescope maker, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology. Celestron’s extraordinary 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 is a privately-held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities in Torrance, California.

Media Contact:

Michelle Meskill, Marketing Manager
mmeskill@celestron.com
(310) 328-9560 x205

Lauren Stracner, Assistant Marketing Manager
lstracner@celestron.com
(310) 328-9560 x261

###

Torrance, CA (January 7, 2013) – Celestron, the world’s #1 telescope maker, is thrilled to unveil its newest telescope series and mount designed specifically for astroimaging: Advanced VX. Engineered from the ground up, Advanced VX features many of the same innovations found on Celestron’s most sophisticated German equatorial mounts—at an extremely affordable price.

The new Advanced VX mount provides optimum imaging performance for smaller telescopes. Experienced imagers will love having the performance of their larger observatory mount in Advanced VX’s portable form, perfect for field use on a dark sky site. The mount also helps new imagers hone their hobby, and will grow with their skills for years to come.

“Astroimaging is on the rise as more and more people are learning to snap captivating shots through a telescope with their DSLR camera,” said Joe Lupica, Jr., CEO of Celestron. “With the easy-to-use Advanced VX, this rewarding hobby becomes accessible to anyone.”

The Advanced VX Series includes the Advanced VX mount, along with complete telescope packages featuring a variety of Celestron optical tubes. Each optical tube meets the needs and budget of both imagers and visual observers, including a 6” refractor, 6” Newtonian reflector, 8” Newtonian reflector, 6” Schmidt-Cassegrain, 8” Schmidt-Cassegrain, 9.25” Schmidt-Cassegrain, and 11” Schmidt-Cassegrain optical tubes.

But the star of the Advanced VX line is the 8” EdgeHD telescope. This complete setup provides not only the best optics and the best mount for new astroimagers, but all at a competitive price under $2,000. 

With Advanced VX, you can take advantage of features like All-Star Polar Alignment and autoguider support. Track through long exposures using permanently programmable periodic error correction. Image across the meridian without doing a meridian flip, seamlessly capturing the best part of the night sky.

Plus, Advanced VX features significantly larger base castings than our previous design, adding additional stability under heavier loads. Improved motors offer more torque and can handle slight load imbalances with ease.

Please visit Celestron.com for dealer locations or 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, GPS devices, binoculars, spotting scopes, and microscopes. Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron has grown to become the world's #1 telescope maker, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology. Celestron’s extraordinary 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 is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities in Torrance, California.

Media Contact:
Michelle Meskill, Marketing Manager
mmeskill@celestron.com
(310) 328-9560 x205

Lauren Stracner, Assistant Marketing Manager
lstracner@celestron.com
(310) 328-9560 x261

Torrance, CA (January 8, 2013) – Celestron, the world’s #1 telescope maker, is excited to unveil the StarSense Accessory, a revolutionary new telescope accessory that turns your telescope into a fully-automated tour guide of the universe.

Before StarSense, using a computerized telescope required a lengthy alignment process of finding and centering at least two bright stars in the telescope’s eyepiece. But StarSense automatically aligns itself, no user input needed. With StarSense, you become an instant astronomer—even if you’ve never used a telescope before.

StarSense technology debuted in 2011 with Celestron’s SkyProdigy telescope line. SkyProdigy captured multiple awards that year, including Popular Mechanics’ Breakthrough Product Award and the esteemed Innovations Award at the 2011 International CES. 

As SkyProdigy amassed accolades, Celestron engineers were already working to bring StarSense technology to other Celestron computerized telescopes. Now, with the StarSense Accessory, that dream is a reality. StarSense is not only compatible with all of Celestron’s current computerized telescope models, but backwards compatible with many older models as well.

The StarSense Accessory includes a small digital camera that attaches to the telescope’s optical tube, along with a specialized hand controller. Just set up the accessory, push the Align button on the hand controller, and StarSense starts capturing and comparing images of the night sky against its internal database of 40,000 celestial objects. In about three minutes, StarSense will gather enough information to triangulate its position and align itself. Then, press the Sky Tour button: StarSense will automatically slew to all the best stars, planets, galaxies, and more based on your exact time and location.

Even the most advanced telescope users will love using the affordable StarSense Accessory. StarSense replaces expensive software used for Advanced Mount Modeling, providing superior pointing accuracy from horizon to horizon. Users can add as many calibration stars as desired to give their telescope mount a new level of accuracy.

StarSense will be on display, along with all of Celestron’s new 2013 lineup, during the 2013 International CES, January 8-11, 2013, at the Las Vegas Convention Center.  Visit Celestron in Central Hall, booth #14842 for a complete review of StarSense and all of our 2013 new product releases.

Please visit Celestron.com for dealer locations or 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, GPS devices, binoculars, spotting scopes, and microscopes. Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron has grown to become the world's #1 telescope maker, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology. Celestron’s extraordinary 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 is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities in Torrance, California.

Media Contact:
Michelle Meskill, Marketing Manager
mmeskill@celestron.com
(310) 328-9560 x205 

Lauren Stracner, Assistant Marketing Manager
lstracner@celestron.com
(310) 328-9560 x261

Designed from the ground up specifically for astroimaging, the new Advanced VX telescope series is Celestron’s answer to the increasing popularity of astroimaging and the growing demands of beginner and intermediate imagers. The Advanced VX portable mount incorporates features usually found on more expensive telescope mounts, and is available in eight different optical tube packages. The star of the series is the Advanced VX 8” Edge HD, which combines Celestron’s best optical design with the Advanced VX for a stellar astroimaging telescope under $2,000.

The SkyProdigy™ computerized telescope with StarSense technology captured multiple awards in 2011, and this year Celestron adds to its success with the StarSense Accessory. With StarSense, almost any Celestron computerized telescope can automatically align itself in about 3 minutes: just plug in the provided hand controller, attach the camera accessory, and hit the Align button. In no time, your telescope is ready to embark on a tour of the universe.

Venturing back down to Earth, Celestron also introduces several new lines of sport optics products for 2013. From beginner hikers to advanced outdoor enthusiasts, Celestron has an adventure-ready binocular series for everyone:

• The TrailSeeker binocular series includes advanced features sought after by birders—including dielectric coated BaK-4 prisms and a close focus of as little as 6.5 feet—at a price competitive with rival brands.
• Hunters, law enforcement, and military personnel will get the most out of their field time with the rugged Cavalry series of binoculars and monoculars. These durable models are fully waterproof, covered with protective rubber, and camouflaged in OD green. Plus, several Cavalry models include essential survival features like an internal compass, reticle, and even a built-in GPS.
• Affordable and accessible, the new Cypress and Nature DX binocular series are clear choices for beginning to intermediate users.
• Our popular Granite binocular series expands with two new models: a 7x33 and a 9x33. Both feature the same top-of-the-line Extra Low Dispersion (ED) glass as other Granite binoculars.

Celestron’s Regal spotting scopes have also undergone a facelift for 2013, emerging as the lighter and brighter Regal M2 series. We’ve added our proprietary XLT coatings to improve light transmission, plus reduced the overall weight of the scope by 14%.

The aspiring outdoorsman can venture confidently into the wilderness with TrekGuide Lite and LandScout, two Celestron products that enhance your time in the field. Use TrekGuide Lite’s personal compass and thermometer to stay safe on the trail, and check out fresh terrain for hiking and biking with the LandScout, a great portable spotting scope.

Upgrade your lab equipment with the three latest additions to Celestron’s cutting-edge digital microscope lineup. The professional-quality LCD Digital Microscope II includes a large full-color LCD screen, 40x to 1600x power (via digital zoom), built-in 5MP digital camera, and 1GB SD memory card to bring the microscopic world into full-color focus.  For a more portable option, the rechargeable, lithium ion battery-powered InfiniView LCD Digital Microscope offers a 5MP camera, full color LCD screen, and 20x-200x powers, making it perfect for viewing objects in the field.  Scaling down further, the Handheld Digital Pro microscope plugs into any Mac or PC via USB cable and uses the computer’s internal memory to store photos and video taken with its 5MP camera.

Finally, Celestron reveals the computerized Sky-Watcher Virtuoso Versatile Mount, which brings precision panning technology to your DSLR, camcorder, or even your cell phone. Just attach a camera to Virtuoso and enjoy smooth panning video, perfectly aligned panoramic still photography, and much more. Virtuoso also includes a 90mm optical tube for astronomical observation.

All of Celestron’s new products will be on display along with the popular SkyQ Link WiFi Module at the 2013 International CES, taking place January 8-11, 2013, at the Las Vegas Convention Center.  Visit Celestron in Central Hall, booth #14842 to explore our exciting 2013 product offering.

About Celestron

Celestron is a leading designer, manufacturer, and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, GPS devices, binoculars, spotting scopes, and microscopes. Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron has grown to become the world's #1 telescope maker, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology. Celestron’s extraordinary 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 is a privately-held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities in Torrance, California.

Media Contact:

Michelle Meskill, Marketing Manager
mmeskill@celestron.com
(310) 328-9560 x205

Lauren Stracner, Assistant Marketing Manager
lstracner@celestron.com
(310) 328-9560 x261

The setup includes a NASA-modified Celestron CPC 925 computerized telescope. ISERV Pathfinder was designed and built at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama. The camera system will be stowed aboard the ISS initially, then assembled by crewmembers in January, 2013.

“ISERV will help advance Earth Science research. We are all very excited and proud to see Celestron’s telescope assisting NASA’s quest for knowledge.” said Corey Lee, Senior Vice President of Product Development at Celestron. View images of the ISERV setup, including the Celestron telescope, at NASA’s website here.

Using the Celestron telescope as a giant lens, ISERV’s camera will take crystal clear shots of our planet from Destiny laboratory’s Earth-facing window, WORF. ISERV images will be used to monitor and assess environmental disasters, climate change, rainforest destruction and air quality in various locations around the globe. It will also aid in short-term weather prediction.

"ISERV came about because officials in developing countries are sometimes unable to acquire the images they need to address environmental threats and provide post-disaster assessments," said Nancy Searby of NASA.

NASA hopes the ISERV Pathfinder will be the first in a planned series of remote-controlled “Earth observing instruments each to feature progressively more capable sensors” aboard ISS.

About Celestron: Celestron is 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 the world’s leading telescope maker, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology. For more information visit: www.celestron.com.

Contacts:
Michelle Meskill Marketing Manager, Celestron
310-328-9560 ext. 205
mmeskill@celestron.com

DAC, a student club at the Damak Multiple Campus and a sister organization of the Nepal Astronomical Society in Lalitpur, Nepal, was selected by Astronomers Without Borders as the most worthy recipient for this donation.  “We like to do something best in astronomy and give knowledge to others as well,” says Dev Raj Sapkota, lecturer at the Damak Multiple Campus and club coordinator.  The donation will provide this recently established club with its first good telescope.

The astropoetry contest was one of more than 30 programs in Astronomers Without Borders’ Global Astronomy Month (GAM) in April—the world’s largest regular celebration of astronomy with participation from the vast majority of the world’s countries.  This year’s contest had over 70 entries of astronomy-related poems from 8 countries across all ages, with Celestron’s AstroMaster and FirstScope telescopes awarded to the top winners.

The poem “Star Gazing,” by Robert A. Wilcox of Los Angeles, California, was judged the first-place winner in the Adult category.  Wilcox wished to have his prize telescope donated to a worthy astronomy club in a developing country, and asked Astronomers Without Borders to make the selection.  His poem, along with the other winning poems in the Adult, Young Adult, and Children’s categories, can be viewed at the Astronomers Without Borders website.

Celestron is 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 the world’s leading telescope maker, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology. For more information visit: www.celestron.com.

Astronomers Without Borders connects people worldwide through innovative programs that are accessible to everyone regardless of geography and culture. Combining local events with online technology and a global community, Astronomers Without borders is a leader in promoting understanding and peaceful international relations, while also supporting outreach and education in astronomy. For more information visit: www.astronomerswithoutborders.org.

Contacts:

Michelle Meskill
Marketing Manager, Celestron
310-328-9560 ext. 205
mmeskill@celestron.com

 Mike Simmons
President, Astronomers Without Borders
818-597-0223
mikes@astronomerswithoutborders.org

TORRANCE, CA – July 26, 2012 – Celestron, the global leader in telescope design, has partnered with Astronomers Without Borders, the leader in organizing programs connecting people worldwide through a shared common interest in astronomy. In this sponsorship, both companies will better serve the entire international astronomy community.

Celestron continues to innovate since manufacturing their first telescope over half a century ago. Industry standard offerings range from optics for amateur astronomers up to university research-quality instruments and beyond. Celestron's mission is to inspire a sense of wonder, knowledge and fun about all aspects of astronomy in our customers worldwide.

Astronomers Without Borders began in 2007 and organizes the world's largest global astronomy programs, based on the idea that "we all share the same sky". Astronomers Without Borders' flagship program, Global Astronomy Month (GAM) in April, has become the world's largest regular celebration of astronomy with participation from the vast majority of the world's countries.

Among the more than 30 programs in GAM 2012, an "Astropoetry Contest" was a huge success. There were over 70 entries from 8 countries across all ages, with Celestron's AstroMaster and FirstScope telescopes awarded to the winners. View the blog here. Celestron also participated in the rare "Transit of Venus" celestial event in June with Astronomers Without Borders on Mount Wilson Observatory. You can watch the archived webcast here.

"Celestron is committed to Astronomers Without Borders' sustainability for the benefit of all astronomers and astronomy enthusiasts, regardless of their location or specific interests." says company president and CEO Joseph A. Lupica Jr.

Celestron will donate top new products to Astronomers Without Borders programs aimed at beginning astronomers and schools, bringing shared knowledge, resources and a sense of commonality between developed and developing nations. Already a name brand in over 80 countries, participation in these programs gives Celestron an even broader reach across the globe.

Astronomers Without Borders president Mike Simmons adds, "Celestron's commitment to the worldwide astronomy community goes far beyond self-interest, with a long-term vision that promoting astronomy in education and as a hobby will improve participation in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) in the US and around the world."

About Celestron
Celestron is 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 the world's leading telescope maker, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology. For more information visit: www.celestron.com.

About Astronomers Without Borders Astronomers Without Borders connects people worldwide through innovative programs that are accessible to everyone regardless of geography and culture. Combining local events with online technology and a global community, Astronomers Without borders is a leader in promoting understanding and peaceful international relations, while also supporting outreach and education in astronomy. For more information visit: www.astronomerswithoutborders.org.

Contacts:
Michelle Meskill
Marketing Manager, Celestron
310-328-9560 ext. 205
mmeskill@celestron.com

Mike Simmons
President, Astronomers Without Borders
818-597-0223
mikes@astronomerswithoutborders.org

At its essence, SkyQ is a personal, pocket-sized guide to the cosmos that canlocate and identify virtually any object in the night sky. From helping to plan adeep sky viewing session, or charting the landmarks of the lunar landscape, totracking the International Space Station, SkyQ is a star map unlike any other –intuitive, interactive, and eminently engaging.
The remarkable SkyQ database includes thousands of heavenly bodies,including the complete Messier and NGC catalogs, hundreds of breathtakingcelestial images, and hours of entertaining and educational audio covering themost famous sights in the Universe. Plus, there are built-in links for expandedinformation, a Tonight's Sky feature for current viewing suggestions, and even amoon phase calendar.

And now, the innovative new SkyQ Link Module add-on takes the technologybehind SkyQ even further by activating a wireless control feature forcomputerized Celestron telescopes. More than merely enabling remotealignment, the SkyQ Link Module will allow you to automatically slew the scopeto an object with a simple tap on your iPhone/iPad planetarium interface. And aSkyTour feature will even generate a list of the best stars, galaxies, and nebulas tosee based on the user's time and location.

"Celestron has a driving mission to create innovative, superior quality opticalproducts that make astronomy accessible to everyone," says Celestron Presidentand CEO, Joseph A. Lupica, Jr. "And with SkyQ and the SkyQ Link Module wehave once again pushed the boundaries of what is possible to take users on anunforgettable journey."
SkyQ is compatible with all iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch devices using the mostrecent firmware. Compass support requires iPhone 3GS/4 or iPad/iPad 2.Celestron will be offering free, hands on demonstrations of SkyQ and the SkyQLink Module at this year's Consumer Electronics Show. (Booth 11608)

SkyQ $4.99

Category: Education, Entertainment, Kids

Author: Celestron

Platform: iPhone/iPad

SkyQ Link Module $99.99

About Celestron

Celestron is a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-qualityoptical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes andrelated accessories, weather stations, GPS devices, binoculars, spotting scopesand microscopes. Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron hasgrown to become the world's leading telescope maker, and enjoys brand-namerecognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstandingdesign, and innovative technology. Celestron's extraordinary products continueto receive numerous industry and consumer media accolades, adding to analready impressive list that includes awards for product innovation from Reader'sDigest, Popular Science, PC Magazine, Popular Mechanics, the ConsumerElectronics Association and more. Celestron is a privately held company withcorporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA.

Torrance, CA – (January 10, 2012) – Celestron, a leading designer and manufacturer of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, microscopes, weather stations, GPS devices and related accessories, is pleased to announce an exciting lineup of new products for 2012 in the outdoor, science, and education categories.

This year Celestron's extraordinary SkyProdigy™ series will see two new additions – the SkyProdigy 102 refractor style telescope and the SkyProdigy 6 Schmidt-Cassegrain style telescope. The AstroMaster telescope line will also expand to include three new models – the AstroMaster LT 60AZ refractor, the AstroMaster LT 70AZ short refractor, and the AstroMaster LT 76AZ Newtonian reflector.

In the outdoor electronics arena, Celestron is debuting two new products - WindGuide™ and WindGuide™ Plus. Basic features like wind speed, gust, temperature, and chill measurements, make WindGuide perfect for wind sailing, parasailing, skydiving, and more. And with advanced features like altitude, humidity, and barometric pressure readings, the WindGuide Plus model is surprisingly well priced. Both join Celestron's extensive line of recreational/GPS devices that include the TrekGuide, reTrace, and CoursePro series.

Two exciting new Amoeba™ USB digital microscope models are also being released. These exceptional two-in-one microscopes pair a biological microscope for specimen slides with a stereoscopic microscope for solid objects. Used with a traditional base or as a handheld instrument, they are capable of capturing images or recording video for digital computer viewing. Additionally, Celestron is offering an upgraded PentaView™ LCD digital microscope, as well asa new heavy-duty, dual-purpose, entry-level Micro360™ microscope.

Celestron is also introducing nine upgraded models to the popular UpClose® binocular series. The new UpClose® G2 binoculars, plus one new monocular, bring brighter, sharper, multi-coated optics together with a stronger, sleeker ,more ergonomic design that truly elevates the already best-selling line. And there are two impressive new additions to the premier Granite™ series, a 10x50 and a 12x50, that raise the bar on Celestron's finest binocular line even further.

Then, of course, there is the revolutionary new SkyQ™ smart phone app, a personal interactive star guide, and a compatible add-on SkyQ™ Link Module for computerized Celestron telescopes that allows easy and accurate remote control.

And last but not least, Celestron's line of indoor/outdoor weather stations will add three new HomeCast™ models to wirelessly monitor weather conditions and information.

"As an industry leader in quality and innovation, we strive to continually improve and expand upon all of our product offerings, and this year is certainly no exception," says Celestron President and CEO, Joseph A. Lupica, Jr. "Our growth in the lifestyle and recreation markets has been both remarkable and rewarding."

All of Celestron's new products, along with the outstanding Nightscape CCD camera, will be on display during the 2012 International CES, January 10-13, 2012,at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Please visit Celestron.com for dealer locations or 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, weather stations, GPS devices, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes. Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron has grown to become the world's leading telescope maker, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology. Celestron's extraordinary 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 is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities in Torrance, CA.

Torrance, CA, December 21, 2011 -- Celestron, a leading designer and manufacturer of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, microscopes, weather stations, GPS devices and related accessories, has just announced the debut of their remarkable new online destination – Celestron.com.

With an astonishingly consumer-friendly new global portal and three parallel websites, each dedicated to a specialty market, Celestron has streamlined the process of finding the perfect product by making every option accessible via product category and/or lifestyle pathways. And a universal shopping cart conveniently keeps track across the complementary sites for U.S. shoppers.

The result is that users can quickly and easily find the perfect fit for their needs whether they start out seeking a specific product type or feature or simply want to explore the options available to enhance their particular hobbies and interests.

“Celestron has always been known for top-of-the-line optic products at an accessible price point,” says Celestron President and CEO, Joseph A. Lupica, Jr. “But as our product line has expanded to include so many diverse and exciting recreational products as well, our client base has also grown larger and more diverse. This evolution is the perfect opportunity to continue engaging with our customers in a way that is more relevant to their experience.”

Built with ease of use in mind, the new Celestron.com website integrates all product information into a single screen with multiple product images and user-submitted photography. Smart “spec” and “activity” icons make assessing and comparing items a breeze. And, product tours and videos, user ratings and reviews, and a solid customer support system – complete with instructions, downloads, articles and manuals – are built right in. The new website even integrates spectacular user submitted astro photography from CelestronImages.com, one of the largest astroimaging communities in the world.

Of course, the new site is also fully integrated with social media like Facebook, Google+, Twitter, etc., and optimized for viewing on iPhones, iPads, and Android smart phones.

Visit www.celestron.com to experience the new, consumer-friendly website.

About Celestron

Celestron is a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, weather stations, GPS devices, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes. Since manufacturing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron has grown to become the world’s leading telescope maker, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology. Celestron’s extraordinary 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 is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA.

Celestron's Nightscape CCD camera and CPC Deluxe HD are two amazing new additions to Celestron's highly successful astro-imaging line.  Nightscape is a one shot, easy to use 10.7 MP color CCD camera, while CPC Deluxe HD combines our award winning EdgeHD optics with a dual fork arm design.  Both can be used separately or paired together to produce visibly sharper astronomical images.

Nightscape is a versatile CCD camera with many sought after features found only on professional grade astro-imaging cameras costing thousands of dollars more.  With its large sensor and high resolution; planets, compact deep-sky and wide field objects will be captured in fine detail and true color fidelity. Nightscape comes with user-friendly AstroFX software, which guides you with easy to follow steps, from taking images to final processing. With a suggested retail price of $1,499, Nightscape maintains the simplicity of a DSLR camera while providing you the capability of a professional grade astro-imaging camera. 

See the universe in high definition with our CPC Deluxe HD.  Celestron's award winning EdgeHD optical system is now available on a newly designed top-of-the-line dual fork arm computerized mount.  Offered in three different models:  CPC Deluxe 800 HD – Retail: $2,399, CPC Deluxe 925 HD – Retail: $3,199 and CPC Deluxe 1100 HD – Retail: $3,799, CPC Deluxe HD telescope series re-defines everything that amateur astronomers are looking for - ease of use, quick and simple GPS assisted alignment, ergonomic design, enhanced electronics, and unsurpassed optical quality.  As a visual instrument, the EdgeHD optical system delivers pinpoint images across your widest field eyepiece, providing you stunning clarity and sharpness.

As an added bonus, all CPC Deluxe HD optical tubes feature a removable secondary mirror (Fastar) for ultra-fast f/2 CCD imaging.  Add Celestron's Nightscape CCD camera, and you have the ultimate imaging setup!

"The hobby of astro-imaging is rapidly growing.  People want to capture what they see through the lens and Celestron's goal is to create innovative products that make it easier than ever for consumers to photograph the night sky”, said Joseph A. Lupica Jr, president and CEO of Celestron.

Visit our dedicated site at http://celestronsites.com/astroimaging for imaging samples, detailed product information and to purchase Nightscape CCD camera and CPC Deluxe HD today!

For a list of dealer locations and updates, please go to http://www.celestron.com/

ABOUT CELESTRON
An award-winning legacy brand for over 50 years, Celestron has grown to become the world's leading telescope maker and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology.  Celestron also develops a wide range of exciting products and technologies that enhance the science, outdoor and educational markets.  Celestron's products have been recognized for product innovation awards from the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Reader's Digest, Popular Science, PC Magazine, Popular Mechanics, and many more.  Celestron is a privately held company with corporate offices in Torrance, CA.  For more information about Celestron, please visit http://www.celestron.com.

CONTACTS
Celestron Contact: Michelle Meskill
Marketing Manager
310-328-9560 ext. 205
mmeskill@celestron.com

Celestron Contact: Yasmine Rios
Marketing Coordinator
310-328-9560 ext. 261
yrios@celestron.com

TORRANCE, CA – (July 6, 2011) – Celestron, the number one telescope maker in the world, media darling for the innovative SkyScout™ Personal Planetarium™, and winner of product innovation awards from CES, Reader’s Digest, Popular Science, PC Magazine and Popular Mechanics, today unveiled its first application for iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch users.

Celestron’s new SkyQ is an easy to use astronomy application that locates and identifies virtually any celestial object visible in the night sky with portable convenience right from the palm of your hand.  A real value at only $4.99, simply install SkyQ via www.skyqapp.com and in no time at all you can treat yourself to a guided tour of the Universe anywhere you choose.    
SkyQ offers you a complete and detailed depiction of the night sky, from the phases of the moon and visible planets, all the way down to the name and position of the moons around Jupiter and Saturn.  It even tracks the International Space Station (ISS) and predicts sightings of its appearance.  SkyQ is packed with hundreds of celestial images and over 4 hours of audio recordings providing you with educational and entertaining information about our constellations, planets, galaxies, nebulae and stars.
An excellent companion to your Celestron telescope, you can even use SkyQ as an observing tool to help you identify and locate hundreds of famous deep sky objects, binary stars and variable stars with your telescope.  Use the high-res lunar landscape map to explore and identify prominent craters, mares and even Apollo lunar landing sites.  SkyQ’s “Tonight’s Sky” mode will even give you suggestions for the best objects to view for your exact time, date and location every time you head outside.

“SkyQ provides everyone, from casual astronomy enthusiasts to serious astronomers, with a portable, educational, entertaining way to experience the Universe.” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr, president and CEO of Celestron.  “Our SkyQ application packs enormous amounts of features and technology into the palm of your hand.  Celestron is proud to be an industry leader in all aspects of astronomy, science and educational products, and with the launch of SkyQ, we continue to support our vision to inspire a sense of wonder, knowledge and fun in our customers and throughout our company.”

Celestron’s SkyQ operates on all iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch devices with the latest firmware.  Visit http://www.skyqapp.com/ for more detailed information and to purchase SkyQ today!

TORRANCE, CA - (January 4, 2011) - Celestron, the #1 telescope maker in the world, media darling for the SkyScout™ Personal Planetarium™ at CES 2006, and winner of product innovation awards from CES, Reader's Digest, Popular Science, PC Magazine and Popular Mechanics, today unveiled its next award-winning telescope product -- the SkyProdigy at the 2011 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES).

The SkyProdigy features patent pending StarSense™ Technology, which provides a dramatic evolution in telescope alignment technology. Unlike most other telescopes which require a user to select and manually center known stars in the telescope to align it, StarSense makes the aligning process easier and faster. With StarSense users turn on the SkyProdigy, push a button and are ready to view the universe in less than three minutes.

With an aligning process of three minutes, the SkyProdigy is the fastest automatically aligning telescope on the market today.

"StarSense completely circumvents the frustrating alignment process of current "Go-To" telescopes by allowing the telescope to automatically align itself without any user intervention whatsoever once it is turned on," said Joseph A. Lupica Jr, president and CEO of Celestron. "Our SkyProdigy and StarSense technology redefines how users can view the universe. For the last 50 years, Celestron has been the world.s leading telescope manufacturer. We.ve developed industry-changing products such as Sky Scout Personal Planetarium and the SkyProdigy is further evidence of our continued commitment to being the world .s leading telescope maker."

Additionally, the SkyProdigy includes a "Sky Tour" feature which automatically moves the telescope to the best astronomical objects currently visible at that time.

The SkyProdigy, along with Celestron.s new products also introduced at CES, including CoursePro™ Golf GPS, reTrace™ Tracking GPS and SkyWatcher AllView™ Panorama Mount, will be displayed during the 2011 International CES, January 6-9, 2011 in Las Vegas at the Celestron booth #14736, located in the Central Hall at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

SkyProdigy will be available summer 2011 in three models:

• Refracting telescope - SkyProdigy 70 (Suggested Retail: $699)
• Maksutov-Cassegrain design -SkyProdigy 90 (Suggested Retail: $749)
• Reflecting telescope - SkyProdigy 130 (Suggested Retail: $799)

Visit Celestron's website for more information and a list of dealer locations and updates, at http://www.celestron.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, weather stations, GPS devices, 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 is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA.

TORRANCE, CA – January 4, 2011 – Celestron, the world's leading designer and manufacturer of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, weather stations, microscopes and related accessories, today announced the launch of CoursePro Golf GPS at the 2011 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES).

CoursePro is a GPS-enabled device that helps golfers by providing unique course information for at least 20 golf courses including distances to the front, center and back of the green for each hole along with the par.

CoursePro is available in two models – CoursePro (Suggested Retail Price: $99) and CoursePro Elite (Suggested Retail Price: $149).

Additional features, such as scorecard data and analysis and hazard mapping are included in the CoursePro Elite model. The CoursePro Elite has a course memory of 100 courses and uses a sunlight readable TFT transflective color LCD screen.

Both CoursePro models have access to downloadable information for 20,000 golf courses around the world from the Celestron website.

"At Celestron we're building technology that enhances the way consumers enjoy their hobbies," said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron. "CoursePro is the first golf GPS device in its price range, and provides information golfers need to improve and further enjoy their golf game."

CoursePro, as well as Celestron's newest products including SkyProdigy™, an automatically aligning telescope; reTrace, a personal locator GPS tool and AllView, a 360 degree photography panorama product, will be displayed during the 2011 International CES, January 6-9, 2011 in Las Vegas. The Celestron booth will be located in the Central Hall at the Las Vegas Convention Center at booth #14736.

Visit Celestron's website for more information and a list of dealer locations and updates at www.celestron.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, weather stations, GPS devices, 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 is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA.

TORRANCE, CA – (January 4, 2011) – Celestron, the world's leading designer and manufacturer of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, weather stations, microscopes and related accessories, today announced the introduction of reTrace™ Tracking GPS and SkyWatcher AllView™ at the 2011 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES).

Celestron's reTrace Lite (Suggested Retail Price: $49) and reTrace Deluxe (Suggested Retail Price: $99) is an easy-to-use GPS device helping travelers, campers, sports and outdoor enthusiasts, joggers and others not get lost. The reTrace GPS is a personal locator with a built-in digital compass that measures the distances to waypoints a user sets to find their way back to a target location. reTrace works anywhere in the world where a GPS signal can be received. The device also features an altimeter, barometer, temperature and real time display.

The SkyWatcher AllView (Suggested Retail Price: $449.95) is a computerized mount that simplifies taking panoramic photos and videos. It automates the process of capturing numerous photo or video frames that are necessary to stitch together a large panorama shot. The AllView can also be used to take astronomy photos by combining the pointing precision of a product designed for astronomy use with a camera shutter control feature to make creating panoramic photography an easier task. The quick release dovetail system makes the AllView compatible with any telescope or spotting scope equipped with Celestron SkyWatcher's 1.75" wide dovetail.

"The introduction of reTrace and AllView is further evidence of our dedication to providing consumers with exciting, useful and innovative products," said Joseph A. Lupica Jr, president and CEO of Celestron. "Our team of skilled engineers and industrial designers are constantly developing new products and technologies that redefine the way consumers can hike, star-gaze, travel, among many other activities and we look forward to continuing that approach for years to come."

reTrace and AllView, as well as Celestron's newest automatically aligning telescope, SkyProdigy™ and golf GPS device CoursePro™ will be displayed during the 2011 International CES, January 6-9, 2011 in Las Vegas at the Celestron booth #14736, located in the Central Hall at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Visit Celestron's website for more information and a list of dealer locations and updates, at http://www.celestron.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, weather stations, GPS devices, 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 is a privately held company with corporate offices and manufacturing facilities, in Torrance, CA.

Through the partnership, Celestron will create a number of specially-made products for outdoor enthusiasts. The Discovery Expedition-branded Celestron products will include special models of Celestron's telescopes, its state-of-the-art weather stations and microscopes.

"We are excited to add this new line of telescopes, weather stations and microscopes to our continuously growing Discovery Expedition brand," said Elizabeth Bakacs, Vice President, Discovery Channel Licensing, "Celestron has a true grasp for what the outdoor enthusiast needs to explore their environment and with these unique and engaging products, we feel we can bring the Discovery Channel to life and further enhance the consumer's overall experience with nature."

"Celestron is a company that is always innovating new technologies and products for outdoor enthusiasts, making a partnership between Celestron and Discovery Communications a natural fit," said Joseph A. Lupica Jr, president and CEO of Celestron. "Our Discovery Expedition products truly enhance life's outdoor adventures and makes exploring the outdoors educational and exciting."

About Celestron
Since designing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron has grown to become the world's leading telescope maker, and enjoys brand name recognition for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology. For five decades, Celestron has been recognized as a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, weather stations, microscopes and related accessories. 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, Sky & Telescope, 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

About Discovery Communications
Discovery Communications (Nasdaq: DISCA, DISCB, DISCK) is the world's number one nonfiction media company reaching more than 1.5 billion cumulative subscribers in over 170 countries. Discovery empowers people to explore their world and satisfy their curiosity through 100-plus worldwide networks, led by Discovery Channel, TLC, Animal Planet, Science Channel, Planet Green, Investigation Discovery and HD Theater, as well as leading consumer and educational products and services, and a diversified portfolio of digital media services including HowStuffWorks.com. For more information, please visit http://www.discoverycommunications.com

TRUCKEE, Calif. – May 3, 2010 – This summer, Northstar-at-Tahoe™ Resort will again host a series of Tahoe Star Tours, led by star guide and poet Tony Berendsen, president of the Northern Nevada Science Coalition. A unique experience offering a breathtaking view into the heavens, Tahoe Star Tours will for the eighth season, offer the premiere star tours experience in Lake Tahoe and an educational evening for guests of all ages. And, new this summer, four of the 18 tour dates will include performances by Reno-based string quartet, Accent Nevada.

“Tahoe Star Tours is a very unique experience in the Sierra. We host visitors from all over the world – many live in large metropolitan areas that are severely light polluted. Many have never seen the Milky Way or even understand what they are seeing when they look out at the stars,” said Berendsen. “People coming to Northstar® Resort in the summer to participate in Tahoe Star Tours learn to open their imaginations and look into space with curiosity.”

Every tour is as different as the sky above, but all include a poetry reading, a fun space quiz with prizes, a laser tour of the stars and constellations, and a telescopic viewing with equipment provided by Celestron, the world’s leading telescope maker. Tours are highly interactive and allow guests to have a hands-on experience at amateur astronomy.

Tahoe Star Tours take place from 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. and meet at the top of the Highlands Gondola at the Ritz-Carlton Destination Club. From there, guests are escorted to the viewing location on the deck of the Big Springs Day Lodge, located mid-mountain at Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort. Proper walking footwear is recommended.

Summer 2010 Tahoe Star Tour Schedule
June
11, 12 – Mars Meets It’s Rival
18 – Saturn’s Moon
19 – Saturn’s Moon (performance by Accent Nevada)

July
2, 3 – War & Love Meet in the Sky
9, 10 – Hercules on High
16 – Crescent Moon on the Rise
17 – Crescent Moon on the Rise (performance by Accent Nevada)
30 – Dark Sky Wonders

August
1 – Dark Sky Wonders
13 – The Milky Way & Perseid Meteor Shower (performance by Accent Nevada)
14 – The Milky Way & Perseid Meteor Shower

September
3, 4 – Jupiter
10 – Tribute to Carl Sagan
11 – Tribute to Carl Sagan (performance by Accent Nevada)

The cost to participate is $30 for adults and $15 for children ages 12 and under. Tours that include performances by Accent Nevada are $75 for adults, $50 for ages 18 and under and also include hot cocoa, coffee, and the chance to win a pair of binoculars. All tours include a commemorative flashlight. For more information or reservations, visit http://www.northstarattahoe.com/.

About Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort
One of the finest year-round mountain resorts in North America, Northstar Resort is host to a new base area village featuring 35 unique shops and restaurants, a conference center, 9,000 square foot skating rink, on-site lodging, special events and more. A winter sport enthusiast’s paradise, Northstar Resort offers 92 ski trails spread across 3,000 acres, award-winning terrain parks and snow sports including alpine and Telemark skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and tubing. Summer activities include mountain biking, golfing, scenic lift rides for sightseeing and hiking, horseback riding, fly-fishing and more.

Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort is located on Highway 267, just six miles north of Lake Tahoe and six miles south of downtown Truckee. For more information, call 1.800.GO.NORTH (1.800.466.6784) or visit http://www.northstarattahoe.com/.

Press Contacts:
Jessica VanPernis, 530.562.3866, jvanpernis@boothcreek.com
Kirstin Cattell, 530.543.3132, kcattell.st@boothcreek.com
Kristin Yantis, 720.532.0211, mailto:kmettler@malenandmettler.com

TORRANCE, CA – (January 4, 2010) – Celestron is celebrating 50 years of successful telescope innovation throughout 2010. The company, founded in 1960 by electronics engineer, Tom Johnson, started as an astro-optical division of Mr. Johnson’s aerospace electronics firm, Valor Electronics. While searching for a suitable telescope for his two young sons, Tom decided to build a telescope from scratch. Starting with a 6-inch reflector, he progressed to building increasingly larger and more sophisticated designs. Tom’s hobby soon grew into a full-time business, offering Celestron Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes in 4-inch to 22-inch models.

Tom’s vision of building an affordable Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope system has evolved into an undisputed industry leading company in the telescope arena. Today, Celestron has grown to enjoy worldwide brand name recognition and a reputation for innovative, reliable optical equipment. “Celestron’s 50th anniversary is a great milestone. When you sit down and consider what Tom Johnson accomplished, you can’t help but be proud and impressed at his vision, leadership and innovation.” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron “Today, Celestron employees carry on Tom’s forward-thinking legacy.”

Throughout the world, Celestron telescopes have become the “telescope of choice” for the consumer that can differentiate between brands. Major observatories, planetariums, colleges and universities worldwide use Celestron telescopes in their astronomy programs. Moreover, its solid and esteemed reputation in the scientific community has reached NASA, who selected Celestron’s C5 telescope as the telescope to be taken on several space shuttle research missions. During the 2009 International Year of Astronomy, the White House held the first documented star party on the White House lawn. President Barak Obama and first lady, Michelle Obama, viewed celestial objects through a Celestron CPC 800.

Throughout 2010, Celestron invites you to visit our special 50th anniversary website where you will find an interactive timeline on Celestron’s history and other notable events in the astronomical community. The website will also feature limited edition 50th anniversary products and apparel, as well as contests and giveaways to celebrate this special milestone. Celestron will also be releasing a 6 part documentary during 2010 entitled “The Path of Light”. This documentary will give you a look back at Celestron’s beginnings and move you forward through 50 years of Celestron’s notable achievements in products, outreach and the astronomical community.

With 50 years under their belt, Celestron is looking toward the future, confident in continuing to focus on engineering innovation and design excellence in all of our product offerings. “We’ve been fortunate in our success over the past 50 years, and would sincerely like to thank our dedicated customers, dealers and employees for putting their trust in Celestron. We couldn’t have done this without you.” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr. “We have many plans ahead to show our support to the astronomical community, continue our dedication to grow astronomy and to engineer products that will be enjoyed for many years to come. It’s going to be a very exciting year!”

Help us celebrate by visiting Celestron’s 50th Anniversary Website www.celestron.com/50 and signing our guest book!

About Celestron
Since designing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron has grown to become the world’s leading telescope maker, and enjoys brand name recognition for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology. For five decades, Celestron has been recognized as a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, microscopes and related accessories. 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, Sky & Telescope, 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.

TORRANCE, CA – (January 1, 2010) – Celestron, the world’s leading designer and manufacturer of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, microscopes and related accessories, is pleased to announce a variety of new products for 2010; including the LCM Computerized Telescope Series, Nature Binoculars and a new line of Digital Weather Stations.

The LCM Computerized Telescope is an easy to use, beginner computerized telescope allowing users to locate objects at the touch of a button. The LCM features all glass, fully coated optics, a computerized hand control with 4,000+ object database, SkyAlign Technology for a faster and easy alignment process and Sky-X Planetarium Software. The LCM Computerized Telescopes are available in 60 mm, 80 mm and 114 mm sizes. These telescopes are a great way to automatically locate the wonders of the universe with their motorized system and on-board computer.

Celestron is proud to introduce our new Nature Binocular Series featuring fully multi-coated optics, high precision BAK-4 prisms and high definition views, these binoculars are sure to take you to an even higher performance level! Designed with an advanced, open frame style the Nature Series has a rugged aluminum main body with rubber coverings for additional lens protection and twist up eyecups for easy eye adjustments. Available in both Roof and Porro Prism models, the Nature Series is waterproof and fog-proof with nitrogen filled gas for added protection in damp environments. Built durable with high quality optics, you will feel and see the difference.

Weather plays an important role while using many of our products, so Celestron is happy to introduce a new line of digital weather stations. All come complete with a wireless outdoor sensor that transmits data to the receiver which is then displayed on an LCD digital screen. The receiver can be placed in any room or convenient location for easy access to temperature and other weather related data. Six models are available, each has its own unique features, and all offer cutting-edge technology.

“All of our new products for 2010 represent our diversity as a company.” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr, president and CEO of Celestron. “Celestron’s staff of experienced engineers, industrial designers, and optical experts are consistently improving and refining our products, as well as developing new products and technologies. We enter our 50th anniversary standing behind our mission of being the world’s leading designer and manufacturer of high quality optics.”
All of Celestron’s new products will be displayed during the 2010 International CES, January 7-10, 2010 in Las Vegas, NV at Celestron booth #7912, located in the Central Hall at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Please visit our website for more information on these or other Celestron products. For a list of dealer locations and updates, please go to http://www.celestron.com.

About Celestron
Since designing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron has grown to become the world’s leading telescope maker, and enjoys brand name recognition for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology. For five decades, Celestron has been recognized as a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, microscopes and related
accessories. 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, Sky & Telescope, 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.

TORRANCE, CA – (January 1, 2010) – Celestron, the world’s leading designer and manufacturer of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, microscopes and related accessories, has done it again. This time taking home three honoree awards in Innovations 2010 Design and Engineering in the Personal Electronics product category by the Consumer Electronics Association. The awards went to the EdgeHD 800 Optical Tube Assembly, LCD Deluxe Digital Microscope and the Handheld LCD Digital Microscope.

Celestron’s EdgeHD is the newest flagship line of aplanatic Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes, specially designed for photographing celestial objects. What sets EdgeHD apart from the others is that this optical system is designed with a coma-free flat focal plane all the way to the edge of the field of view. The result is a visibly sharper photograph that guarantees you visibly sharp stars across some of the largest CCD chips available today. With the growing interest in astrophotography, Celestron has made it easier and more affordable for consumers to take amazing photos of the night sky!

With the huge success of touch screen technology, Celestron has incorporated this feature into one of their newest microscopes; the LCD Deluxe Digital Microscope. The LCD Deluxe Digital Microscope is the first of its class with a touch screen and rotatable 180° panel for view sharing, a built-in digital camera for images and video, flash memory of 512MB for storage, and an SD card slot to upload your images to your computer.

Another new Celestron microscope Honoree winner, the Handheld Digital LCD Microscope is just as unique. This sleek, ready-to-go, palm size microscope is battery operated with a 2.4” LCD screen to view objects. Equipped with camera and video features, as well as an SD card slot for extra storage, this microscope is fun to take anywhere. With the LCD Deluxe Digital Microscope and Handheld LCD Digital Microscope, you no longer have to be limited by looking through the eyepiece of a microscope!

“We are thankful to the CEA and the Innovations judges for honoring our company with these awards. We are proud to know that our optical products have captured the engineering award in two categories; telescopes and microscopes. Celestrons’ EdgeHD optical system is the most versatile, affordable imaging telescope available today”, said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron. “Our two new microscopes, the Deluxe Digital LCD Microscope and Handheld Digital LCD Microscope showcase that Celestron is dedicated to staying on the cutting edge of technology in the microscope industry. All three honorees are unique in their own way, but all have one thing in common, to keep users captivated as the physical world is revealed like never before.”

All three Celestron Award Honoree winners will be displayed during the 2010 International CES, January 7-10, 2010 in Las Vegas, NV at Celestron booth #7912, and Innovations Design and Engineering Showcase in the Grand Lobby at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

For a list of dealer locations and updates, please go to http://www.celestron.com.

About Celestron
Since designing its first telescope in 1960, Celestron has grown to become the world’s leading telescope maker, and enjoys brand name recognition for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology. For five decades, Celestron has been recognized as a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, microscopes and related accessories. 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, Sky & Telescope, 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 Franklin Institute partnered with Celestron to give away a vintage telescope signed by Leonard Nimoy!

TORRANCE, CA – (October 30, 2009) – Celestron® the world’s leading telescope maker, has named Patricia Kelty of Brooklyn, New York, the winner of their “Experience the Stars” contest that was held in conjunction with The Franklin Institute over the summer at STAR TREK: THE EXHIBITION.

“The Franklin Institute continues to be dedicated to astronomy education and is thrilled to once again partner with Celestron” said Dennis M. Wint, President and CEO of The Franklin Institute. “Celestron has helped to bring one of only two remaining Galileo telescopes to Philadelphia, to take visitors to infinity and beyond with STAR TREK: THE EXHIBITION, and to educate visitors today through the monthly Night Skies public program at The Franklin Institute.  We congratulate Patricia Kelty and hope that she and her family make many astronomical discoveries with their new Celestron telescope.”

 “My daughter and I are very excited to have won the Celestron C11 telescope from the ‘"Experience the Stars’" contest.  It is truly something that has been on my dream wish list for as long as I can remember and to have it signed by Leonard Nimoy makes it positively awesome!  I grew up watching Star Trek and so have my children, we love all of the characters but I have to say Leonard Nimoy as Spock and William Shatner as Captain Kirk are our absolute favorites. Gene Roddenberry was a true visionary; he is the spark that has ignited the imagination and passions of some of our greatest minds in all walks of life. His legacy will live on in our hearts and minds forever as an inspiration as mankind moves forward making the world of Star Trek our reality in the centuries to come.” said Ms. Kelty. “I would like to thank Tthe Franklin Institute for hosting the Star TrekSTAR TREK exhibition, Celestron for making the finest telescopes out there and Mr. Leonard Nimoy for making this an absolutely awesome prize of a lifetime with his signature and just for being Spock!  Live Long and Prosper and Always Look Up!”

“Celestron received thousands of entries, as well as some great photos and videos from Star Trek fans hoping to win this one-of-a-kind telescope” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron.  “We are thrilled to present such a unique prize to a true Star Trek fan.  Congratulations Patricia!”

About The Franklin Institute
Founded in honor of America’s first scientist, Benjamin Franklin, The Franklin Institute is one of
America’s oldest and premier centers of science education and development in the country. Today, the Institute continues its dedication to public education and creating a passion for science by offering new and exciting access to science and technology in ways that would dazzle and delight its namesake. For more information please visit www.fi.edu.

About Celestron
Celestron is 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 the world’s leading telescope maker, and enjoys brand-name recognition among serious amateur astronomers for superior optics, outstanding design, and innovative technology.  For more information about Celestron please visit http://www.celestron.com.

President Obama kicked-off the event with a brief address that was streamed live on the whitehouse.gov website. The program at the White House included more than 20 telescopes set up on the White House lawn focused on Jupiter, the Moon and select stars. President Obama, under the direction of his science advisor John Holdren, viewed a double-star in the constellation Lyra through a Celestron CPC 800 computerized telescope. “Celestron commends President Obama for his commitment to science education and support of astronomy. It is imperative that we all work together to bring awareness to our next generation about our place in the universe and the contributions that amateur astronomers can make to modern astronomy.” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr, President and CEO of Celestron.

This star party was held to mark the International Year of Astronomy (IYA2009), which celebrates the 400th anniversary of Galileo's first use of a telescope. "What will your great discovery be?" Obama asked the students before viewing through the telescope. "Galileo changed the world when he pointed his telescope to the sky. Now it's your turn. We need your restless curiosity," the president said. Obama, his wife Michelle, and a group of 150 local middle-school students attended. Also in attendance were two 15-year-old amateur astronomers, Caroline Moore, who at age 14 became the youngest person to discover a supernova, and Lucas Bolyard, who discovered a rare type of ultra-dense star known as a pulsar. Former astronauts Buzz Aldrin, Sally Ride and Mae Jemison, and current astronaut John Grunsfeld joined the historical event as well.

Visit the websites below for information on other notable IYA events happening in 2009:

• October 9-23 -- Great World Wide Star Count www.starcount.org
• October 19-25 -- Fall Astronomy Week, including Fall Astronomy Day on Saturday, October 24, with the Astronomical League www.astroleague.org
• October 22-24 -- IYA Galilean Nights global star party www.galileannights.org
• November 10-30 -- NASA’s Image Unveiling hubblesource.stsci.edu/events/iyafinale
• IAU International Year of Astronomy website: www.astronomy2009.org

TORRANCE, CA – (July15, 2009) – Celestron®, the world's leading designer and manufacturer of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, microscopes and related accessories, is announcing the release of its newest line of aplanatic Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes, the EdgeHD Series. EdgeHD is perfect for photographing the stars.

You may have seen beautiful images of the night sky and have wondered if it's even possible for you to take such amazing photos. It is possible and Celestron is making it easier and more affordable for the amateur astronomer or photographer looking for a new art form. After the much-anticipated release of the new CGE Pro Mount especially designed with the astrophotographer in mind; Celestron introduces its new optical line, the EdgeHD Series, with true Astrograph qualities for sharper more clear photographs giving you the clear edge.
What sets EdgeHD apart from the others? While some telescope optical designs can produce pinpoint stars across a curved focal plane, stars will appear out of focus at the edge of view when used with a flat chip sensor of a digital camera. The EdgeHD optical system is designed with a coma-free flat focal plane all the way to the edge of the field of view. EdgeHD optics produce a focal plane more than three-times flatter than a standard Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope and dramatically flatter than other competing coma-free designs. The result is a visibly sharper photograph that guarantees you visibly sharp stars across some of the largest CCD chips available today.

“The hobby of astrophotography is rapidly growing. People want to capture what they see through the telescope lens. Celestron is committed to creating innovative technology for the consumer; we have done that with the EdgeHD." said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron, “It has superior edge performance that not only creates rounder, more pleasing stars, but actually improves the resolution and limiting magnitude when compared to other scopes of equal aperture, this produces amazing clarity for astrophotographers.“

In addition to Celestron's new optimized optical design there are many new mechanical features engineered for better performance:

• Mirror Locks - Flexible tension locks hold the mirror in place and reduce image shift when rotating the tube around the mount.
• Tube Vents - Cooling vents located on the rear cell allow hot air to be released from behind the primary mirror.
• Fastar Versatility – All EdgeHD optical tubes are Fastar compatible for imaging down to f/2 with optional accessories.

Visit www.celestron.com/EdgeHD to learn more about the EdgeHD and see side-by-side comparisons of images taken with standard optics versus the new EdgeHD optics.
For a list of dealer locations and updates, please go to www.celestron.com

About Celestron
Celestron is the worlds 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 global sponsor of International Year of Astronomy 2009. 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.

TORRANCE, CA - (February 20, 2009) - Celestron® one of the world's leading designers and manufacturers of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, microscopes and related accessories, has announced that their All-Star Polar Alignment Technology will be available for download for all Celestron Advanced GT and CGE Telescopes. The hand control upgrade is easy and can be done right from home. The firmware can be downloaded and installed using our HCupdate application available from the Celestron website.

Polar alignment is the process of aligning the telescope with the Earth's rotation. Once done, this will allow you to easily track celestial objects. Select Celestron telescopes can utilize this Polar alignment procedure called "All-Star", which allows users to choose any bright star from the hand control, while the software calculates and assists with polar alignment. Celestron's All-Star Polar Alignment method is more accurate than older methods of alignment and more accurate than using an optical finderscope attached to the mount. Since the stars you can use are farther away from the North Pole, there is a higher degree of accuracy.

The software will be available for our older CGE Series, Celestron's line of observatory class Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes, offered in 8" 9.25, 11" and 14" apertures. It will also be available for our line of Advanced Series family of computerized GoTo telescopes, offered in 6", 8", 9.25", 10" and 11" apertures.

"The biggest advantage of having All-Star Technology is that you no longer have to rely on using the North Star to align your telescope. With All-Star you can use a variety of bright stars in various locations in the sky", said Joseph A. Lupica Jr, President and CEO of Celestron.

Please visit www.celestron.com/downloads for details on how to download latest firmware update that includes All-Star Polar Alignment and for more detailed instructions.

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

PHOTOKINA BOOTH – Hall 2/Booth #C-028

TORRANCE, CA – (September, 2008) – Celestron®, the world’s leading designer and manufacturer of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, microscopes and related accessories, has unveiled a new German equatorial mount called CGEM. The mount has a fresh, attractive, bold appearance and is capable of carrying Celestron’s higher-end SCT optical tubes (up to 11”) securely and vibration free which is ideal for both imaging and visual observing.  CGEM was designed to be ergonomically friendly with large Altitude and Azimuth adjustment knobs for quick and easy polar alignment adjustment.  CGEM has a new innovative Polar alignment procedure called All-Star. All-Star allows users to choose any bright star, while the software calculates and assists with polar alignment.  Another great feature of the CGEM, sure to please astroimagers, is the Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PEC) which will allow users to train out the worm gears periodic errors, while the mount retains the PEC recordings.

For objects near the Meridian (imaginary line passing from North to South), the CGEM will track well past the Meridian for uninterrupted imaging through the most ideal part of the sky. The CGEM mount has a robust database with over 40,000 objects, 400 user defined programmable objects and enhanced information on over 200 objects.

“The CGEM mount is the perfect fit between Celestron’s Advanced Series and CGE Series.  In addition, this mount is perfect for astroimagers with its ability to track well past the meridian.” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron.

For a list of dealer locations and updates, please go to http://www.celestron.com.

Celestron’s CGEM will be on display in the Celestron booth located in Hall 2, booth C-028.

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.

TORRANCE, Calif. - (BUSINESS WIRE) - Celestron®, one of the world’s leading designers and manufacturers of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, microscopes and related accessories, announced the addition of CelestronImages.com to their growing website collection. CelestronImages.com is an online community for amateur astronomers and terrestrial observers to showcase, discuss and share their stunning photography with the world. What makes CelestronImages.com unique is the integration of Google Maps technology that allows Celestron to display astro photos directly on an interactive map of the night sky. Furthermore, visitors and members can also download and share KML files that allow them to view astro images on Sky in Google Earth.

The creation of CelestronImages.com stems from demand for more interactive venues in the astronomy community. Image sharing has become a very popular function for internet users to display their favorite photography with other hobbyists. “Amateur astronomers are capturing spectacular images of the night sky. Celestron was determined to create a comprehensive website to offer exposure and support to this hobby,” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron. “With CelestronImages.com we have accomplished that goal.” CelestronImages.com allows registered users to categorize their images, create albums, comment and rate images and list statistics on their photography.

CelestronImages.com is now live and its registered users and image base are growing rapidly. Be one of the first 1,000 registrants and you will be entered to win a top-of-the-line Axiom LX 31mm Eyepiece! Visit http://www.celestronimages.com/ to register today!

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.

TORRANCE, CA – (May 22, 2008) – Celestron®, one of the world’s leading designers and manufacturers of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, microscopes and related accessories, along with Synta Optical Technologies announced the addition of Sky-Watcher USA to its already well established and well respected product offering.

Sky-Watcher USA will be headquartered in Costa Mesa, CA. Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron has hired Joe Gordon as the Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing of Sky-Watcher USA. He has over 25 years experience in the astronomy community. “Joe Gordon brings sales and marketing expertise that is only matched by a few in the industry,” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr.

Sky-Watcher is a welcomed addition to a growing industry. With 2009 being named by the UN as the  International Year of Astronomy the timing could not be better for consumers gearing up for the celebration of years of exploration

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.

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.

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/.

The World’s First Digital Microscope For Hobbyists Replaces The Traditional Eyepiece With An Integrated LCD Screen, Allowing Individuals And Groups To View, Capture And Save Vibrant, High-Resolution Images And Video Of Microscopic Specimens

TORRANCE, CA – (January 1, 2008) – Celestron®, the world’s leading designer and manufacturer of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, microscopes and related accessories, is opening up a new frontier of exploration for everyday science enthusiasts with the unveiling of its new LCD Digital Microscope®.  Designed for use by everyone with an urge to expand their sphere of knowledge through exploration, Celestron’s LCD Digital Microscope (LDM) combines all of the powerful features of a professional grade microscope with an easy-to-use, fully- integrated, high-resolution 3.5” LCD screen, giving users the ability to view, capture and save vibrant, high-resolution images and video of Earth’s most magnificent microscopic specimens. 

Empowering users with the ability to explore the microscopic world more extensively and effortlessly than ever before, the innovative design of Celestron’s LCD Digital Microscope replaces the traditional eyepiece with a high-resolution 3.5” (88mm) LCD screen that allows for easy viewing by individuals as well as with friends, family and classmates.

Engineered with an objective lens that provides three different magnification levels (4x, 10x, and 40x), 4X digital zoom functionality, a six position color filter wheel, top and bottom LED Illumination, 128MB internal storage memory and a built-in 2MP digital camera, the LDM is capable of capturing images and short videos of specimens at magnification levels up to 1600 times their original size.  The LDM is an ideal tool for examining everything from stamps, coins and other common objects to specimen slides of yeasts, molds, cultures, fibers, bacteria, and animal parts up close using the powerful digital zoom feature.

“As a foremost manufacturer of the scopes used by today’s leading scientists, the LDM incorporates many of the advanced features found on Celestron’s line of professional microscopes to provide a powerful and easy-to-use tool that is ideal for all amateur scientists, from seasoned enthusiasts to those just beginning their scientific exploration,” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron. “With the flexibility to not only view, but capture photos and video of both prepared slides and everyday objects through the seamlessly integrated 3.5” viewing screen, the LDM is an amazing all-in-one product that will keep users captivated as the physical world is revealed like never before.”

With a suggested retail price of $299.99, Celestron’s LCD Digital Microscope comes with five prepared slides, an AC power adaptor, a carrying case, a USB cable for transferring images to a PC and will be available at specialty retailers nationwide in February 2008. For a list of dealer locations and updates, please go to http://www.celestron.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 please visit http://www.celestron.com//.

A Breakthrough In Design, The USB-Powered Handheld Digital Microscope Transforms Everyday Objects Into Extraordinary Explorations For All

TORRANCE, CA – (January 1, 2008) – Celestron®, one of the world’s leading designers and manufacturers of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, microscopes and related accessories, is empowering curious consumers with the ability to transform normal everyday objects into extraordinary explorations with the unveiling of its innovative Handheld Digital Microscope (HDM).

A breakthrough in microscope design, Celestron’s new Handheld Digital Microscope enables users to view and capture images (snapshots or video) at 20 to 400 times magnification power and then view them on a Macintosh or PC computer by using the attached USB cable.

Designed with a digital camera and LED illuminator built into a small, compact package that weighs just 3 oz, the revolutionary portable microscope provides bright and sharp viewing on the screen of a computer. Perfect for hobbyists, collectors, teachers, students, scientists and even medical professionals, the HDM is easy to set up and use right out of the box, and is ready to be used anywhere that a traditional scope is used.

“The HDM is a professional grade digital microscope as well as a fun educational tool that will keep consumers of all ages captivated as grains of salt transform into giant blocks of white ice, gems reveal a kaleidoscope of crevices and brilliant colors and tiny insects morph into magnificent beasts,” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron.   “Its unique design sets it apart from traditional microscopes as its small size gives users the flexibility and freedom to explore almost anything, anywhere, without the need for traditional bulky instruments.”

With a suggested retail price of $139.95, Celestron’s Handheld Digital Microscope is available online and at specialty retailers nationwide. For a list of dealer locations and updates, please go to http://www.celestron.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 please visit http://www.celestron.com//.

The comet was discovered by amateur astronomer Edwin Holmes, who first documented its eruption 115 years ago in November 1892. Since its discovery, Comet Holmes has periodically flared up, but the recent activity has resulted in a magnitude of brightness unseen in past flare-ups

“What an amazing opportunity to get up close and personal with a cosmic wonder of the night sky. It is absolutely astounding to see, and even more so when using a telescope,” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron. “I encourage people of all ages to get into the backyard and catch a glimpse of this truly magnificent sight before it is too late.”

For those seeking to maximize this once in a lifetime opportunity with a closer look at the “eerie orb,” Celestron, a leading manufacturer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, suggests the following stargazing equipment:

Celestron NexStar 6 SE®
Celestron’s NexStar SE telescopes give users the ability to identify, locate, engage, learn and explore thousands of stars, planets and galaxies at the touch of a button. Loaded with an array of user-friendly features, many of which are found on Celestron’s most advanced computerized telescopes, the NexStar SE family of telescopes (4 SE, 5 SE, 6 SE and 8 SE) combine state-of-the-art features with an easy-to-use interface to give stargazers complete control of the celestial viewing experience, making the innovative telescopes ideal for all amateur astronomers, from seasoned enthusiasts to those just beginning their outer space adventure. In addition, the NexStar SE’s “GO TO” function makes finding Comet Holmes easy by simply inputting the RA and DEC coordinates. A table of Comet Holmes coordinates is available at http://www.celestron.com/astrowatch.

Celestron AstroMaster 114EQ®
An excellent choice for the more serious beginning astronomer, the AstroMaster series non-computerized telescopes are powerful optical instruments that offer mechanical simplicity, rugged reliability and ease of use, delivering bright, clear images of a wide array of objects in the night sky and making astronomy easy and interesting for all. An ideal paring of simple operation and versatility, each AstroMaster model is easy to set up and use without tools, requires little to no maintenance, excellent for both celestial and terrestrial viewing and delivers color corrected, high contrast/good definition, brilliant images of thousands of celestial objects in the night sky.

Celestron SkyMaster 25 x 100®
Celestron’s SkyMaster Series of large aperture binoculars are a phenomenal value for high performance binoculars ideal for astronomical viewing or for terrestrial (land) use - especially over long distances. Each SkyMaster model features high quality BAK-4 prisms and multi-coated optics for enhanced contrast. Celestron has designed and engineered the larger SkyMaster models to meet the special demands of extended astronomical or terrestrial viewing sessions. For maximum stability and secure optical alignment the 100mm SkyMaster model features enhanced structural reinforcement to the main binocular body. As an additional convenience, the 100mm SkyMaster model also includes an integral super rigid photo tripod adapter. The SkyMaster Series binoculars are built to provide years of magnificent views of the world and the heavens above.

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, microscopes and ground-breaking SkyScout personal planetarium. 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

TORRANCE, CA – (March 1, 2007) – Celestron, one of the world’s leading designers and manufacturers of telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes, microscopes and related accessories, is turning suburban backyards into outdoor observatories with the official release of its NexStar SE family of high-performance telescopes at the 2007 Consumer Electronics Show in January. On the heels of the 2006 release of the revolutionary SkyScout personal planetarium, Celestron’s NexStar SE telescopes give users the ability to identify, locate, engage, learn and explore thousands of stars, planets and galaxies at the touch of a button. Loaded with an array of user-friendly features, many of which are found on Celestron’s most advanced computerized telescopes, the NexStar SE family of telescopes (4 SE, 5 SE, 6 SE and 8 SE) combine state-of-the-art features with an easy-to-use interface to give stargazers complete control of the celestial viewing experience, making the innovative telescopes ideal for all amateur astronomers, from seasoned enthusiasts to those just beginning their outer space adventure.

Designed to make astronomy fun, exciting and most importantly, simple for star watchers of all experience levels, each of the NexStar SE telescopes uses Celestron’s innovative NexStar® technology to automatically align 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. Upon locating each celestial object, the NexStar SE telescopes display interesting historical and scientific facts about the star, planet or galaxy being viewed via the LCD screen located on the telescope’s backlit handheld control unit.

And for those evenings filled with user-indecision, the NexStar SE telescopes come equipped with computerized Sky Tours, that provide a hands-off tour of the night sky using a customized list of the “best objects” available for viewing according to time and location, making Celestron’s NexStar SE telescopes ideal for astronomy enthusiasts committed to spending less time searching for celestial objects and more time viewing them.

“As telescopes have become more advanced over the years, they have also become more complicated to use. The NexStar SE family of telescopes puts the focus back on the fun of astronomy by offering many of the advanced viewing features commonly found on more expensive telescopes in an easy to use interface,” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron. “After nearly 5 decades of producing the industry’s highest quality optical products for amateur astronomers, the technology features in the NexStar SE telescopes enable backyard stargazers to take their knowledge of the universe to the next level, and still have fun doing so.”

Combining the classic look of the original orange tube telescopes with state-of-the-art features, including a fully computerized operating system, flash upgradeable hand control and superior StarBright XLT coatings, the NexStar SE Telescopes give users a high-performance telescope that turns the backyard into a deep space knowledge center for the whole family.

Additionally, every NexStar SE telescope comes with Celestron’s award-winning SkyAlign™ technology, meaning the telescope accurately aligns itself for optimum viewing in a few simple steps. Users simply input the date, time and location into the hand control and then point the telescope at any three bright celestial objects, and the NexStar SE telescope is ready to explore the night sky. Unlike most computerized telescopes that require a complicated calibration process before initial use, Celestron’s patented SkyAlign delivers simple, fast and accurate calibration in a matter of minutes, ensuring that the telescope is optimized for the viewing environment.

Every NexStar SE telescope includes a version of The Sky® Level 1 Planetarium software for exploring the Universe on any PC and printing out custom star charts of the sky, in addition, NexRemote software allows users to operate the telescope from their PC.

The NexStar SE family of telescopes includes the 4 SE (240x magnification), 5 SE (300x magnification), 6 SE (354x magnification) and 8 SE (480x magnification) models, and has a suggested manufacturers retail prices of $599, $799, $999, and $1399 respectively. The NexStar SE telescopes will be widely available both online and at retail in 2007. Visit, www.celestron.com for more detailed information on product features and availability.

Celestron’s NexStar SE telescopes will be on display at the International Consumer Electronics Show at booth #70422, in the Sands Expo from January 8 – 11, 2007.

High-resolution photos of Celestron products featured at the 2007 International Consumer Electronics Show are available to media for immediate download by visiting http://www.celestron.com/CES07.

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.

Designed for use in a wide range of viewing environments, from observing nature, to spotting shots on the range, to spectator events and backyard excursions, 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 using the supplied video cables and easy-to-install VistaPix software.

“Hikers, campers, and nature observers no longer need special spotting scope camera attachments or adaptors to take photos or videos of their outdoor adventures, as the VistaPix IS70’s seamless integration of technology gives today’s outdoor enthusiasts an amazing all-in-on, easy-to-use product to capture special moments and live action up close,” said Joseph A. Lupica Jr., president and CEO of Celestron. “Similar to what our SkyScout did for celestial exploration, the VistaPix IS70 gives consumers the tool they need to explore and learn more about the world around them.”

The IS70 is powered by two AA batteries, mounts to virtually any tripod, comes with an aluminum hard case and weighs only 3.5 lbs.

The VistaPix IS70 has a suggested manufacturers retail price of $479.00 and will be widely available both online and at retail in 2007. Visit, www.celestron.com for more information on product features and 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.

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.

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.

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.

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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

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

"It has always been our goal to bring the wonders of astronomy to the general public, and partnering with the Griffith Observatory is the perfect vehicle to accomplish that goal," said Celestron CEO, Joseph A. Lupica. "We are honored to have our telescopes become a part of Griffith's long and reputable history."

"After extensive research, the Fastar C8 and the C9.25 were our first choices for wide-angle and narrow-angle electronic imaging," said Griffith Observatory Director, Dr. E.C. Krupp. "Celestron's decision to tailor the telescopes to our specific need and to get them quickly in our hands is another example of their substantive commitment to public astronomy."

Celestron and the Griffith Observatory have a relationship that spans several years starting most notably with Celestron's donation of a NexStar 11 GPS computerized telescope in 2003 for the observatory to use for its public observing sessions. Celestron teamed up with the observatory in August of 2003 by participating in several large public star parties during the 2003 Mars Opposition. Celestron continues to be involved in various star parties hosted by the observatory.

"It has always been our goal to bring the- wonders of astronomy to the general public, and we believe the Institute for Astronomy's mission is perfectly in line with our goal," said Celestron CEO, Joseph A. Lupica. "We are proud to assist such an outstanding organization."

"We want to thank Celestron for providing the telescope for our Deep Impact observations, and ongoing school and community outreach on the Big Island of Hawaii" said Gary Fujihara of the University of Hawaii Institute for Astronomy. "I am sure that the astronomy public outreach collaboration between Celestron and the University of Hawaii Institute for Astronomy will continue, and result in many opportunities for us to share the wonders of the universe within our communities."

Celestron was invited by the Institute for Astronomy to participate in the annual Astro Day event in April of 2005. A Celestron representative met with the Astro Day organizer, Gary Fujihara, and was impressed by his commitment to promoting astronomy.

Celestron sent the donated telescopes in June to coincide with the Institute for Astronomy's events around the Deep Impact mission.