Which Celestron Eyepiece is better for planetary observation??

[Flyingpig]

I have followed with some interest the recent thread started by Bertfry regarding planetary eyepiece recommendations. I note that many people favour the New X-Cel LX Eyepieces. I have particular interest since I am searching this question myself; and I was wondering which of the following is the better choice. I own 2 scopes, a Celestron 11" CPC GPS XLT, and the more portable Celestron Nexstar 5 SE. My primary observation is planetary but I am aiming to begin observing more deep space objects once I acquire this eyepiece and I shall be using my 2x Powermate for when the viewing is favourable.

13mm Celestron Ultima LX or 12mm Celestron X-Cel LX

How do these eyepieces compare with the following for deep space observation?

12.5mm Baader Genuine Orthoscopic

11mm TeleVue Plossl

12mm Meade 5000 Series HD-60 LE

[nicnac]

ultima LX would be better for the DSOs as you get larger FOV but the X-cel LX are a fine EP and at £69 you cant quibble

[Flyingpig]

Thanks Nick,

just wondering if anyone knows anything about the Celestron Luminos series EP's are they really just a cheaper version of the Axiom LX's - is there much difference?

[Flyingpig]

Hey guys I just bought a brand spanking new 13mm Celestron Ultima LX for a mere £78.07 on ebay! There are more Ultimas to go too with a £75 starting price.

[nicnac]

nice

i am thinking on the 32mm ultima LX myself, the X-cel LX's do me in the other sizes

not 100% sure yet though, no rush i guess

[F15Rules]

Hi guys,

I;m a convert to the better Celestron EPs..I now have 32 and 22mm Ultimax LX's and a 7mm Axiom. They are all superb eyepieces, and in my opinion much underrated. I've sold most of my other eps as I am so pleased with the Celestrons..the Ultimas have a 70deg field, the Axiom a whopping 82 degrees. Build quality is great, and the Ultimas design means they can't roll off a table or shelf if they are on their sides.

I'd highly recommend and will now probably get a 13mm Ultima or 15mm Axiom when funds permit, to complete the set...oh, and they barlow really well with my Revelation 2" ED barlow..

HTH

Dave

[Flyingpig]

Thanks for the info Dave, Yes I can agree that the Celestron Axiom LX is an awesome eyepiece; as you say the build quality is superb even down to the anti-roll design. I have a 23mm Axiom LX and an older design 34mm Axiom both are optically superb.

I have no previous experience of the Ultima LX's so I'm glad to hear your recommendation. I must say the Celestron Omni series are not bad for budget EP's either and the Barlow is great, I use it with my Nexstar 5SE because the powermate makes things a tad heavy.

[Flyingpig]

Incidentally Dave why not check out the new Celestron Luminos range; these appear to be axiom LX's with a new name and a cheaper price tag.

[rwilkey]

Another vote for the Celestron range, often under-rated, The Axiom LX's are excellent ep's I have to say, just renamed as far as I know.