Honoring Al Nagler in our November 2025 issue

This month's issue bridges the past and future of astronomy with heartfelt stories, exciting product releases, and a celebration of innovation in every corner of the night sky. From a moving farewell to one of the greatest optical minds of our time, to the unveiling of Celestron’s next-generation smart telescope, it's an edition that belongs on every stargazer's nightstand.

A Farewell to a Legend: The Al Nagler Interview

The emotional centerpiece of this issue - and a must-see for every astronomer - is The Al Nagler Saturnday Interview with Eli Goldfine. In this extraordinary conversation, 90-year-old optical pioneer Al Nagler meets 13-year-old telescope maker Eli Goldfine. It’s a rare and beautiful moment that captures the essence of why we look up - curiosity that transcends age, time, and technology.

This exchange between two generations reminds us that astronomy is as much about passion and mentorship as it is about precision optics. Nagler’s wisdom and Eli’s enthusiasm create a fitting tribute to a man whose vision literally changed how we see the universe.

Celestron Origin Mark II Announced!

At the other end of the spectrum, looking boldly forward - is Celestron’s Origin Mark II. We dive into what we know about Celestron’s newest innovation in smart telescopes. The Mark II brings sharper imaging through an upgraded 8MP camera and refined software, representing evolution rather than revolution.

It’s a thoughtful refinement of the connected telescope experience, offering smoother performance, better integration, and more intelligent automation - proof that even in the age of AI and remote observing, there’s still room for human ingenuity under the stars.

Gear, Optics, and Innovations

For beginners and seasoned observers alike, my SVBONY SV520 review takes a practical look at what an affordable 90mm refractor can really deliver. Despite its budget tripod and accessories, this scope offers a surprisingly solid gateway into visual astronomy - proof that you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy the night sky.

Advanced users will be excited to see Houdini’s new 9mm and 30mm coma-correcting eyepieces, designed to produce razor-sharp, wide-field views. Meanwhile, the long-awaited Tele Vue 24mm Delos has officially landed, and we break down where to find it and why it’s already being called an optical masterpiece.

Astro imagers will appreciate Farpoint’s exclusive CXB narrowband filters, continuing the Astrodon legacy with high-precision coatings for H-alpha, OIII, and SII wavelengths. Plus, JMI’s latest focuser update now supports the Pegasus FocusCube 3, bringing smoother, backlash-free focusing through ASCOM integration.

The Sky, Industry, and Beyond

Not all updates are welcome, astronomers are voicing concerns over Reflect Orbital’s satellite project, which could scatter unwanted sunlight into the night sky and disrupt research and ecosystems. On a brighter note, the Astrophotography Powerbox revolution continues, offering streamlined cable management and intelligent power distribution for cleaner, more reliable setups.

This issue also marks 20 years of Mirrosphere Optics, celebrated with a compact carbon travel telescope that showcases engineering finesse and portability. Meanwhile, StarStructure Telescopes introduces hinged mirror cell frames for easier maintenance and stability, and 2047STUDIO unveils a precision-engineered pan-tilt altazimuth mount for smooth manual tracking.

For imagers and observatory builders, JTW’s Trident GT launch special promises a robust, remote-ready mount system designed for serious astrophotographers. And for solar enthusiasts, Daystar Filters debuts the Sol 100mm Dedicated Solar Telescope, delivering crisp Hydrogen Alpha views in a purpose-built system.