Computerized 114mm Newtonian Telescope - Beginner GoTo

Our review of the Celestron 114LCM finds it a practical, entry-level computerized telescope for families and beginning astronomers who want quick, automated access to the night sky. The single biggest reason to consider this model is its computerized GoTo system with Sky Tour and SkyAlign, which removes much of the guesswork from finding targets and lets new users spend more time viewing and less time searching. Setup is straightforward and the package includes a full-height tripod, two eyepieces and a red-dot finder so it is ready to use out of the box.

Key Features

• 114mm Newtonian reflector: The larger 114mm primary mirror gathers more light than typical small refractors, which helps reveal lunar detail and brighter deep-sky objects under dark skies.
• Computerized GoTo mount: The motorized altazimuth mount can automatically locate and track thousands of celestial objects, saving time and improving the beginner experience.
• Sky Tour and SkyAlign: The Sky Tour button recommends the best visible targets and SkyAlign alignment is simple to complete by centering three bright objects, so you can start observing quickly.
• Included accessories: The kit ships with a full-height tripod, two eyepieces (25mm and 9mm) and a StarPointer red dot finderscope, which provides basic magnification options and practical mounting right away.
• All-glass optics and software: The telescope uses all-glass optics for clearer images and includes a free download of Starry Night software to plan observing sessions from any location.

Who It's For

This model is best for families, students and casual stargazers who want an approachable, computerized telescope that removes manual star-hopping from the early learning curve. The automatic GoTo and Sky Tour features make it ideal for users who prefer an assisted observing experience and who value bundled accessories so they can get started quickly.

Experienced hobbyists who demand the highest resolution, premium mounts or deep-sky imaging capability should look elsewhere; the 114LCM is designed as a beginner-friendly reflector with limited payload and simplified tracking, not as a precision instrument for long-exposure astrophotography.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Easy setup and alignment with SkyAlign, making first nights productive for beginners.
• Computerized GoTo mount and Sky Tour offer automatic target selection and convenient object location.
• Complete starter kit includes tripod, two eyepieces and a red dot finder so no extra purchases are required to begin.
• Free Starry Night software helps plan sessions and learn the sky from any location.

Cons

• Some users report mixed image sharpness; optical and alignment adjustments may be needed to get the best views.
• The lightweight mount and altazimuth design limit advanced tracking stability and payload for heavy accessories or serious astrophotography.

Specifications

Optical design	Newtonian reflector
Aperture	114mm
Mount type	Motorized altazimuth GoTo
Eyepieces included	25mm and 9mm
Finderscope	StarPointer red dot
Tripod	Full-height tripod included
Software	Free Starry Night download

Our Verdict

The Celestron 114LCM is a sensible value for beginners who want computerized object locating and a ready-to-use kit. It pairs a useful 114mm reflector with straightforward SkyAlign and Sky Tour features, so new users can find and enjoy celestial targets quickly; those seeking high-end optics or precise tracking for astrophotography should consider more advanced mounts instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this telescope come ready to use?
The telescope ships with a full-height tripod, two eyepieces and a StarPointer red dot finder, so basic stargazing is possible right after assembly and alignment.

How many objects can the GoTo system locate?
The computerized mount can automatically locate thousands of celestial objects and the Sky Tour function highlights the best visible targets for your location.

Is this telescope suitable for astrophotography?
It is designed for visual observing; the lightweight altazimuth mount and tracking are not optimized for long-exposure astrophotography.