Celestron NexStar+ Hand Control USB, AZ 93981

Celestron NexStar+ Hand Control USB (Alt-Azimuth) – Part #93981

Take full command of your alt-azimuth Celestron telescope with the latest NexStar+ Hand Control—now with direct USB connectivity for updates and control.

Whether you’re using a NexStar SE, an Evolution mount, or a classic CPC telescope, the Celestron NexStar+ Hand Control USB (AZ) is the key to unlocking your GoTo mount’s full potential. With intuitive menus, a backlit LCD, and instant access to thousands of celestial targets, this is the same hand controller that ships with Celestron’s most popular computerized alt-azimuth telescopes.

This version features a built-in USB mini-B port, making software updates faster and simpler—no RS-232 serial adapters required.

Powerful Navigation at Your Fingertips

The NexStar+ controller comes preloaded with a 40,000+ object database, including Messier, NGC, Caldwell, and SAO catalogs, plus planets, double stars, variable stars, and dozens of named celestial showpieces. Not sure where to start? Just activate Tour Mode, and the hand control will suggest the best objects to observe based on your location, date, and time.

Alignment routines include SkyAlign, Solar System Align, and Two-Star Align, allowing users of all experience levels to get up and observing in minutes. Once aligned, the mount will automatically slew to your target and track it smoothly across the sky.

Additional Features

• Customizable slew limits and maximum slew speed for personalized operation

• USB Flash Upgradeable Technology lets you update firmware easily with Celestron Firmware Manager

• Dual-line, 16-character LCD display with adjustable red backlight for night-friendly use

• Shortcut keys for quick access to objects, alignment tools, and utilities

• Solar system object tracking, perfect for observing lunar and planetary detail

• Compatible with PC control software when connected via USB (mini-B cable not included)

Compatibility

This NexStar+ Hand Control is compatible with alt-azimuth GoTo mounts only and will not function with equatorial (EQ) GoTo systems. It is fully functional with the following Celestron mounts and telescope lines:

Compatible:

• NexStar SE Series (4SE, 5SE, 6SE, 8SE)

• NexStar Evolution Series (6, 8, 9.25, HD versions)

• NexStar SLT Series

• LCM Series

• Astro Fi Series (note: HC overrides WiFi)

• CPC GPS XLT

• CPC Deluxe HD

Not Compatible:

• CG-5, CGEM, CGX, Advanced VX, or any equatorial mount

• SkyProdigy (StarSense-only control system)

If you need a hand control for a GoTo equatorial mount, see part number 93982 (NexStar+ EQ) instead.

Final Thoughts

The Celestron NexStar+ USB Hand Control (AZ) is the heart of your alt-az GoTo telescope system. Whether you're navigating to Saturn, slewing across the Milky Way, or just taking the telescope out for a quick tour of tonight’s highlights, this controller puts the cosmos at your fingertips. With a modern USB interface and deep compatibility across Celestron’s current alt-az lines, it’s the perfect replacement or upgrade for any user.

Technical Summary

• Database: 40,000+ objects

• Display: Dual-line, 16-character red-backlit LCD

• Connection: USB mini-B port for updates and PC control

• Firmware: Flash-upgradeable via Celestron Firmware Manager

• Compatibility: Alt-azimuth GoTo mounts only (see list above)

• Power: Supplied through telescope AUX port

• Cable: Mini-USB cable not included