Smithsonian x Celestron Explorer Hub
Welcome
Getting Started
Start your adventure here. Find helpful tips and tools for a night under the stars.
Resources for Your Telescope
Find setup guides, apps, activities, and other resources created for your Smithsonian by Celestron telescope.
Setup Guide
Get your telescope assembled and ready to start observing with this setup guide.
Kids Activity Guide
Download fun, hands-on activities designed to help young astronomers learn more about the night sky and how telescopes work.
Setup Guide
Get your telescope assembled and ready to start observing with the setup guide for the StarSense Explorer 80LT & StarSense Explorer 130 Tabletop Dobsonian
StarSense Explorer App
Use your smartphone to find celestial objects with on-screen arrows that guide you across the night sky. Learn more & download the app.
Setup Guide
Get your telescope assembled and ready to start observing with this setup guide.
VIDEO: How to Use SkyAlign
Learn how to align your NexStar 6SE so it can locate and track celestial objects.
Smithsonian STARS Activity: Observing the Sun
Track sunspots over multiple observing sessions and learn more about our
closest star with this activity from the Smithsonian.
⚠️ SOLAR SAFETY WARNING: Only complete this activity if you have the proper solar filter for your NexStar 6SE telescope. Never look directly at the Sun or through a telescope pointed at the Sun without a properly installed solar filter. Permanent eye damage can result.
Smithsonian STARS Resource: Premium Astronomy Guide Answers
Find answers to the reflection questions in your included guide, plus links and resources to continue learning.
Smithsonian STARS Activity: Star Tracker Dial
Download the printable Star Tracker Dial referenced in your Premium Astronomy Guide.
Smithsonian STARS Activity: Star Tracker Frame
Download the printable Star Tracker Frame referenced in your Premium Astronomy Guide.
Things to See & Do
There’s always something new to discover. Find observing ideas, activities, and inspiration.
From the Smithsonian
Take your curiosity further with astronomy resources, real data, research, and more from the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory.
Smithsonian STARS Program
Scientists Taking Astronomy to Rural Schools (STARS) is a program that connects rural students and teachers with Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory astronomers and Celestron telescopes.
