Celestron StarSense Autoguider – Version 94040
All-in-one autoguiding, alignment, and imaging performance for your Celestron mount.
The Celestron StarSense Autoguider (part number 94040) is a revolutionary upgrade to your telescope setup, combining advanced autoguiding, fully automated alignment, and integrated polar alignment assistance—all in a single compact package. This new generation of StarSense technology is purpose-built for astroimagers who want sharper stars, more accurate tracking, and a simplified setup workflow without needing multiple components or a dedicated laptop.
Ideal for both seasoned astrophotographers and those just entering the world of deep-sky imaging, the StarSense Autoguider replaces the complexity of traditional guiding systems with a streamlined, plug-and-play solution. No separate guide camera, guide scope, or third-party software is required.
Automatic Alignment in Under Three Minutes
With the press of a button, the StarSense Autoguider aligns your telescope to the night sky in about three minutes—no user input required. Celestron’s patented StarSense technology automatically detects star patterns overhead and matches them to an internal database, allowing your telescope to orient itself with exceptional speed and accuracy. This eliminates the manual alignment process and gets you observing or imaging faster than ever.
Precise GoTo Performance for Tight Fields of View
When paired with a compatible Celestron computerized mount, the StarSense Autoguider takes your GoTo accuracy to the next level. Celestial objects are not just within the field of view—they’re centered, even when using high-powered eyepieces or today’s small-format CMOS imaging sensors. This precision is a major advantage for both visual observers and astrophotographers capturing faint deep-sky targets.
Advanced Autoguiding—Without the Hassle
Traditional autoguiding setups can be expensive and complicated, typically involving a separate autoguiding camera, a guidescope, and a computer running guiding software. The StarSense Autoguider eliminates all that. Its integrated hardware and software handle the tracking corrections needed for long-exposure imaging, keeping your celestial targets locked in the frame and ensuring pinpoint stars throughout your exposures.
With the StarSense Autoguider, there’s no need for extra cabling or software installations. It connects directly to your Celestron mount via an AUX port and works autonomously, making it one of the most user-friendly guiding solutions available.
Assisted Polar Alignment for Maximum Accuracy
For equatorial mount users who want to achieve the best possible tracking, the StarSense Autoguider provides an intuitive assisted polar alignment routine. Using your NexStar+ hand control or CPWI software, the autoguider walks you through a fast, automated alignment process. In less than five minutes, you can dial in a precise polar alignment—without any guesswork. Many users will find that with this tool, polar alignment becomes optional for casual imaging and observing sessions.
High-Performance 4-Element Optics
Unlike typical mini-guiders, the StarSense Autoguider features a custom-designed 4-element optical system developed by renowned optical designer Mark Ackermann. This unique design offers improved sharpness and guiding precision. The optical tube is threaded to accept standard 2" filters, allowing you to customize your guiding experience with IR-pass filters for twilight alignment or neutral density filters for daytime focusing.
Integrated Camera and Sensor Technology
At the heart of the autoguider is a sensitive Sony IMX462-DLL monochrome CMOS image sensor, known for its low noise and high sensitivity in low-light conditions. This ensures reliable guide star acquisition, even under suboptimal skies. The system’s onboard processor handles image capture, star tracking, and mount corrections internally—no external computer is necessary. For advanced users, the live camera view can be accessed via a connected PC for additional control and fine-tuning.
Now Includes a Custom Dew Shield
Every StarSense Autoguider now includes a threaded dew shield, which helps prevent dew accumulation on the objective lens during high-humidity conditions. It also serves as a lens shade to block unwanted stray light from nearby sources, improving contrast and image quality during guiding and alignment.
Expandable and Future-Ready
Celestron continues to develop new features and enhancements for the StarSense Autoguider. Firmware updates unlock additional capabilities, including dithering control (to aid in image stacking and noise reduction) and comet guiding via CPWI. These updates are free and easy to install, ensuring your autoguider keeps improving long after your initial purchase.
Flexible Control Options
You can operate the StarSense Autoguider using:
This flexibility allows you to tailor your control method to your existing workflow, whether you're running a field setup or operating from an observatory.
Mount Compatibility
StarSense Autoguider works with most modern Celestron computerized mounts, including German equatorial and altazimuth models. Compatible mounts include:
Important Note: Do not connect the StarSense Autoguider to your mount’s autoguider port. It must be connected via an AUX port only. Using the autoguider port may damage the device.
What’s in the Box:
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StarSense Autoguider (version 94040)
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Mounting bracket and hardware
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AUX cable for mount connection
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Custom dew shield
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Quick-start guide
Whether you’re just beginning your astrophotography journey or looking to simplify a more advanced setup, the Celestron StarSense Autoguider offers unmatched convenience, reliability, and performance. With automatic alignment, integrated autoguiding, and assisted polar alignment all in one compact unit, it’s a powerful addition that brings professional-level results within easy reach.
