SkyPortal WiFi Module (2026 Version)

New for 2026

Improved Dual-Band WiFi Performance

The updated SkyPortal WiFi Module now supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz WiFi, allowing users to select the best wireless connection for improved stability and reduced interference in crowded WiFi environments.

Instructions for switching between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz are included in the updated instruction sheet packaged with the product.

How to Identify the 2026 Version

The SkyPortal WiFi Module retains the same SKU (#93973). The updated version can be identified by its new regulatory/compliance labeling on both the product and the packaging.

Key Features

• Wirelessly align and control your telescope using your smartphone or tablet with Celestron's free SkyPortal app for iOS and Android.
• Tap any celestial object in the sky to instantly identify it. Tap again and your telescope automatically slews to and centers the object in the eyepiece.
• Explore a database of 100,000+ celestial objects.
• View astroimages and listen to audio descriptions for hundreds of popular objects including the planets, Orion Nebula, Hercules Open Star Cluster, and many more.
• Sky Tour automatically generates a personalized observing list based on your exact time and location.
• No need to manually enter GPS coordinates, time, or date—SkyPortal uses your device's built-in location and time information.
• Compatible with all current Celestron computerized telescopes and select older models.
• Plugs directly into the telescope's Hand Control or AUX port.
• Requires no batteries or external power.

Turn Your Device into a Wireless Observatory

The SkyPortal WiFi Module transforms your smartphone or tablet into a wireless hand controller and personal planetarium.

Simply plug the module into your telescope's Hand Control or AUX port, connect your mobile device to the SkyPortal WiFi network, and you're ready to align your telescope and begin observing. Navigate the night sky with a simple tap while SkyPortal automatically slews the telescope to your selected target.

While observing, enjoy hundreds of built-in audio descriptions covering the history, mythology, and scientific highlights of many of the most popular celestial objects.

SkyPortal's Tonight's Best feature automatically recommends the best stars, galaxies, nebulae, and other objects visible from your exact location and current time.

SkyPortal WiFi is an excellent upgrade for telescope users of all ages and experience levels—from beginners and families to advanced observers.

Powered by the SkyPortal App

The SkyPortal WiFi Module works with Celestron's free SkyPortal planetarium app, available for Apple iOS and Android devices.

Developed in collaboration with the creators of SkySafari, SkyPortal features:

• Database of more than 100,000 celestial objects
• Intuitive planetarium interface
• Observation planning tools
• Lunar transit predictions
• Astronomical events up to 100 years into the future

The app can also be used independently as a planetarium, even without the SkyPortal WiFi Module.

Telescope Compatibility

Compatible with the following Celestron computerized mounts:

• Advanced VX
• CG-5 (requires compatible cable)
• CGE Pro
• CGEM
• CGEM DX
• CPC
• LCM
• NexStar Evolution
• NexStar SLT
• NexStar SE
• SkyProdigy (manual alignment only; automatic alignment is not supported)
•  

Access Point Mode

The SkyPortal WiFi Module can now communicate with your telescope, SkyPortal, and the internet simultaneously by using Access Point Mode.

Access Point Mode allows the module to connect through your existing home wireless network instead of connecting directly to the telescope's WiFi signal. This provides a more secure connection because your device remains connected to your password-protected home network.

Important: Initial configuration must be completed using Direct Connect Mode before Access Point Mode can be enabled.

Configuring Access Point Mode

1. Set the WiFi switch to Direct Connect mode.
2. On your phone or tablet, open your WiFi settings and connect to the SkyQ network.
3. Open the SkyPortal app.
4. Tap the Settings icon (gear symbol).
5. In the Settings menu, locate the Telescope section and tap Communications.
6. Verify that Direct Connect is selected, then tap Configure Access Point. This will open the Access Point Configuration (APC) window.
7. Enter your home wireless network (LAN) credentials into the appropriate fields. This is typically the same WiFi network name (SSID) and password you normally use to connect your phone or tablet to your home network.
   • In some cases, you may also need to specify a local IP address.
   • Most home routers use addresses in the 192.168.0.x range (where x is a number from 1 to 254), but you should verify this in your router's settings.
8. Tap Save to WiFi Device (or the similarly named button). This uploads your network credentials to the SkyPortal WiFi Module and returns you to the Communications window.
9. If the app has not already done so, change the communication mode to Access Point.
10. Exit the menus and disconnect from the telescope. The WiFi LED should begin slowly pulsing.
11. Slide the WiFi switch on the Evolution mount (or WiFi module) to the Access Point position.
    • The WiFi LED should change from a slow pulse to a fast blink while it searches for your home network.
    • After successfully connecting (typically within 20 seconds), the LED should return to a slow blinking pattern.
12. Open the WiFi settings on your phone or tablet and reconnect to your normal home wireless network.
13. Return to the SkyPortal app, tap the Telescope icon, open Settings, and verify that Access Point is selected under the telescope connection settings. Tap Connect. After a few seconds, the app should establish a connection to your telescope through your home network.

Using SkyPortal WiFi with a PC (ASCOM)

Interested in controlling your telescope from a Windows PC?

The SkyPortal WiFi Module can also be used with many ASCOM-compatible telescope control programs.

For setup information, see this excellent Cloudy Nights discussion:

http://www.cloudynights.com/topic/560277-celestron-skyportal-wifi-connect-to-pc-and-ascom-it-works/

How to Identify the New Version (2026)
The SkyPortal WiFi Module’s SKU number (#93973) has not changed. The updated module can be identified by its new regulatory/compliance labeling on both the product and the box.