{"title":"For the Pro Ready to Go BIG","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"advanced-vx-800-rowe-ackermann-schmidt-astrograph-rasa-telescope","title":"Advanced VX 8\" Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) Telescope","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis kit combines the 8” Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) with the strong-yet-portable Advanced VX\u003cspan\u003e (AVX)\u003c\/span\u003e German equatorial mount. Simply add a mirrorless camera and this package offers everything you need to take spectacular images of wide-field deep sky objects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRASA Performance Made for Everyone\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCapture spectacular wide-field deep sky images in seconds with Celestron’s portable astrograph, the 8” Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA). This incredibly fast f\/2.0 system is the perfect companion to today’s color astronomical CMOS cameras, smaller CCD cameras, and mirrorless cameras. Thanks to its fast focal ratio and patented optical design, you can produce sharp, detailed images and, in many cases, skip the autoguider completely. Weighing in at just 17 pounds, it’s easy to transport your 8” RASA to the most remote dark sky locations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRASA Performance Made for Everyone\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 8” RASA is an imaging telescope that delivers a flat field without optical aberrations for razor sharp stars across a wide field of view. It can capture stunning deep-sky astronomical images without the challenges typically presented by longer focal length instruments at a fraction of the cost of those systems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe latest addition to the RASA family, this 8” version is a much more portable and affordable version of the heralded RASA 11, which was introduced to much acclaim in 2014. With the 8” RASA joining the lineup, a wider range of astroimagers can enjoy the benefits of the RASA design. It has many of the same thoughtfully designed features as its “big brother” RASA 11, including the integrated air-cooling system, internal filter mount, and sturdy CGE dovetail mounting bar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePurely designed for imaging, the 8” RASA cannot be used visually. The prime focus focal plane is located at the front of the optical system, so it cannot accommodate a traditional eyepiece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShorter Exposure Times and Virtual “Real-Time” Observing\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince it is an F\/2.0 optical system, imagers can use shorter exposure times to capture detail in faint objects. When combined with sensitive cameras and the proper “live stacking” software, the 8” RASA can provide an almost real-time observing experience. View images on a computer instantly that are brighter and more detailed than can be seen in much bigger telescopes with the naked eye.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause shorter exposure times are possible, your equatorial mount won’t need to accurately track over extended periods. The 8” RASA’s relatively short 400mm focal length also lessens equatorial tracking demands. In many cases, autoguiding will not be required. Weighing only 17 lb, this optical tube pairs perfectly with a wide variety of mounts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUltra-Stable Focus System\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith the launch of the 8” RASA, Celestron unveiled a new focuser design that mitigates lateral movement of the primary mirror when focusing, slewing, or tracking with the astrograph. Focusing is easier, more accurate, and more stable than ever. The key to the Ultra-Stable Focus System is a precision linear ball bearing, which is tested during assembly to ensure optimal results.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBuilt for Today’s Latest Cameras\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike the larger RASAs that work with DSLR and large CCD cameras, the 8” model was designed with color astronomical CMOS cameras, smaller CCD cameras, and mirrorless cameras in mind. The telescope does not work with standard DSLR cameras. It is optimized for sensors with up to a 22mm diagonal, but performs well with sensors up to 32mm diagonal. The APS-C sized sensors used in many mirrorless cameras are a good choice. 42mm full frame sensors will also work, but performance will be poor at the edges of the sensor and field illumination will be reduced. Additionally, we do not recommend pairing RASA 8 with any camera body more than 4” in diameter. See the chart below to determine if your camera is compatible with RASA 8.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable class=\"compatibility-table\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCamera\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eCompatible with RASA 8?\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eAdapter required\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAstronomical CMOS\/CCD camera with C-mount\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eC-mount adapter (included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAstronomical CMOS\/CCD camera with M42-thread mount\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eM42 adapter (included) with M42 extension tubes (not included)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAstronomical CMOS\/CCD camera with other mount\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCustom camera adapter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCanon mirrorless with APS-C sensor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.celestron.com\/products\/camera-adapter-for-canon-mirrorless-rasa-8\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCanon mirrorless adapter \u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e(sold separately)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSony mirrorless with APS-C sensor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eYes\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.celestron.com\/products\/camera-adapter-for-sony-mirrorless-rasa-8\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSony mirrorless adapter \u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e(sold separately)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCanon mirrorless with full frame (42mm) sensor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eYes, but not optimized across the full sensor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.celestron.com\/products\/camera-adapter-for-canon-mirrorless-rasa-8\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCanon mirrorless adapter \u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e(sold separately)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSony mirrorless with full frame (42mm) sensor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eYes, but not optimized across the full sensor\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.celestron.com\/products\/camera-adapter-for-sony-mirrorless-rasa-8\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSony mirrorless adapter \u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e(sold separately)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDSLR\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eNo\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e--\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUnique Optical Design\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRASA’s optical design is patented (US 2016\/0299331 A1). The design consists of a Schmidt corrector, primary mirror, lens group, and optical window. The lens group contains 4 elements and utilizes rare-earth elements. Unlike many telescopes that only perform well over the visible spectrum (400-700nm), the 8” RASA’s optics are designed to perform over a wider spectral range, from 400-800nm. This allows more of the light emitted from the astronomical object to be sharply focused in the image.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith many imaging systems, adding an extra piece of flat glass such as a filter does not change optical performance. However, that is not the case with super-fast optical systems like the RASA. Our engineers addressed this by designing the RASA with a removeable optical window, so you can maintain peak optical performance if a filter is added or if a camera has its own optical window. Celestron offers a Light Pollution Imaging Filter designed specifically for the 8” RASA, which mounts in place of the optical window.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll refractive optical surfaces are coated with StarBright XLT coatings, while the primary mirror uses enhanced aluminum coatings. This maintains high light transmission through the entire optical system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen compared with “Hyperstar SCT” systems, the RASA 8 provides better optical performance and field illumination.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAdvanced VX \u0026amp; Tripod \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Advanced VX mount is designed to provide superior performance for smaller telescopes while taking advantage of Celestron’s most advanced technologies: All-Star Polar Alignment, Celestron PWI telescope control software, and permanently programmable periodic error correction (PPEC).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you’re an experienced imager, you’ll love taking this portable mount to a dark sky site and enjoying all the conveniences of a larger observatory mount. Or, if you’re new to imaging, Advanced VX will help you get started with the hobby and keep up with your needs for years to come.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eComputerized German equatorial mount\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Advanced VX is the smallest of Celestron’s German equatorial mounts. The computerized GoTo capability automatically tracks objects as they move across the night sky. The Advanced VX mount includes ports for a hand control, an autoguider, and 2 AUX ports for optional accessories.  The NexStar+ hand control gives you instant access to all the functions your mount has to offer. With automatic slewing and menu descriptions, astronomers of all skill levels can master this mount in just a few observing sessions. The Advanced VX also has an impressive tripod for its class with 2”-diameter steel tripod legs, providing an extra-wide stance for improved stability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePayload capacity\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe payload capacity for the Advanced VX is 30 lb. It offers a sturdy platform for the 8” Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph optical tube, even when paired with optional accessories like \u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.celestron.com\/products\/starsense-autoalign\"\u003eStarSense AutoAlign\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e, \u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.celestron.com\/products\/focus-motor-for-sct-and-edgehd\"\u003eFocus Motor\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e, a \u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.celestron.com\/collections\/finderscope\"\u003efinderscope\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e, and a \u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.celestron.com\/collections\/astroimaging-cameras\"\u003ecamera\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e. Celestron's payload capacity does not include the weight of the counterweights. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDual saddle plate\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eAs of early 2019, Advanced VX mounts include a dual saddle plate that accommodates both CG-5 and CGE-style dovetails. Switching between the two saddle plates is as simple as moving the hand knobs into a separate set of holes. You can use your Advanced VX mount not only with the 8” RASA, but virtually any optical tube within Advanced VX’s weight limit. \u003cspan\u003eCompatible with Vixen format dovetails 100mm or longer, not compatible with Losmandy D format plates (regardless of plate manufacturer).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoftware\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCelestron PWI Telescope Control Software\u003cbr\u003eYour Ultimate Astronomy Software Suite\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll current Celestron computerized telescopes include Celestron PWI (CPWI), the most advanced astronomy software suite provided with any consumer-grade telescope. Celestron’s experts co-developed CPWI with the engineers at PlaneWave Instruments. The result is an all-in-one solution offering you many of the same features used on PlaneWave’s observatory-class telescopes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGraphical planetarium interface with PointXP advanced mount modelling allows you to add 100+ points to your alignment model for the most accurate pointing and tracking possible\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIdeal for remote observatory setups: save and re-load your alignment and park your scope\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProvides a complete ASCOM telescope interface to allow control of the telescope from third party software applications\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more information on CPWI and to see the user interface, click \u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.celestron.com\/pages\/celestron-pwi-telescope-control-software\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStarry Night Software\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eAlso included with your purchase is a free download of Celestron’s Starry Night Special Edition Software. This advanced software by Simulation Curriculum offers detailed information about celestial objects and helps you plan your next observing or imaging session. The Special Edition software also includes telescope control via your PC.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAccessories Included\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Advanced VX RASA 8 comes complete with a M42 camera adapter, C-thread camera adapter, and fan battery pack.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Celestron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46382034944257,"sku":"12032-CGL","price":2808.33,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0755\/6857\/8817\/files\/12035_AVX_800_Rowe-Ackermann_Schmidt_Astrograph_02.jpg?v=1749502669"},{"product_id":"cgx-l-equatorial-mount-and-tripod","title":"CGX-L Equatorial Mount and Tripod","description":"\u003cp\u003eCelestron's CGX-L Computerized Equatorial mount is the latest addition to our fully computerized equatorial mount series. Capable of carrying Celestron’s largest optical tubes with ease, CGX-L is designed for backyard observatories and remote imagers looking for exceptional load capacity to weight ratio, compact design, and innovative features that fully support large telescopes, imaging kits, and the latest in wireless tech accessories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKey design goals included larger 144mm diameter worm wheels which provide smoother operation and can more accurately drive heavier loads, longer 270mm dovetail saddle to support larger optical tubes, remote operation friendly features such as home and limit optical sensors, easier polar alignment adjustments, and better cable management overall. In addition to that, we’ve made mechanical and ergonomic improvements throughout to make the mount sturdier, easier to use, and easier to transport. COMPACT. ERGONOMIC. INNOVATIVE.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Celestron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46382084260097,"sku":"91531-CGL","price":3999.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0755\/6857\/8817\/files\/91531_CGX-L_Mount_01.jpg?v=1749503966"},{"product_id":"edgehd-8-optical-tube-assembly-cge-dovetail","title":"EdgeHD 8\" Optical Tube Assembly (CGE Dovetail)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSee the Universe in HD\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEdgeHD is an aplanatic, flat field Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope that produces aberration-free images across a wide visual and photographic field of view. The optical system was designed to reduce more than just off-axis star coma; it also provides an astrograph-quality flat focal plane all the way to the edge of the field of view.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTrue Astrograph Quality\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMany optical designs that advertise themselves as \"astrographs\" actually only produce pinpoint stars across a curved focal plane. While this may be acceptable for some visual observing, stars will appear out of focus at the edge when used with the flat chip sensor of a digital camera. EdgeHD optics produce a focal plane more than three-times flatter than a standard Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope and dramatically flatter than competing coma-free designs. This guarantees you visibly sharp stars across some of the largest CCD chips available today. \u003ca href=\"\/university\/astronomy\/edgehd-optics\"\u003eLearn more about EdgeHD technology.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImproved Performance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSuperior edge performance not only creates rounder, more pleasing stars, but actually improves the resolution and limiting magnitude when compared to telescopes of equal aperture. With Celestron’s StarBright XLT optical coatings on every surface, EdgeHD optics gives you maximum light throughput across the widest visual and photographic spectrum.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMechanical Features\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eIn addition to EdgeHD’s optimized optical design, the telescope tube has been redesigned to make sure you get the most from your optics each and every night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMirror clutches\u003c\/strong\u003e - Flexible tension clutches hold the mirror in place and reduce image shift when taking long exposure astro-images. Once focused, the flexible rods allow the mirror to be held in place without putting any force or pressure on the mirror assembly, keeping the image centered in the eyepiece (or on the sensor).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTube vents\u003c\/strong\u003e - Cooling vents located on the rear cell allow hot air to be released from behind the primary mirror. Each vent has an integrated 50-mesh filter guaranteed to let warm air out without letting dust in.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFastar versatility\u003c\/strong\u003e - EdgeHD is the most versatile imaging telescope available today. At its native f\/10, you can achieve the image scale necessary to capture the smallest of deep sky objects. Add the optional reducer lens—custom-designed for your size EdgeHD tube—and you can increase your field of view without sacrificing optical performance. A Barlow gives you added power for high-resolution planetary, lunar and solar imaging. All EdgeHD optical tubes are Fastar-compatible, allowing the secondary mirror to be removed and replaced with a third party lens accessory for ultra-fast f\/2 wide field imaging.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIndividually Tested\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEvery EdgeHD that ships has been tested not only for the surface quality of each optical component, but also with a camera and artificial star to ensure the imaging system meets our rigid quality assurance. This “final acceptance test” confirms the EdgeHD will perform in the field and deliver high-quality astroimages\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Celestron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46382088225025,"sku":"91030-XLT-CGL","price":1758.33,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0755\/6857\/8817\/files\/91030-xlt_edgehd8_large_1.jpg?v=1749504018"},{"product_id":"c11-optical-tube-assembly-cge-dovetail","title":"C11 Optical Tube Assembly (CGE Dovetail)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Celestron C11-A packs serious light gathering ability into a rugged aluminum optical tube. At only 24 inches long and weighing just 27.5 pounds, this telescope is still portable enough to be taken to dark skies and set up by a single person. It’s an ideal instrument for serious astrophotography.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Celestron C11 provides excellent, high-contrast views and can perform at very high magnifications. It is equipped with Celestron’s patented StarBright® XLT optical coatings, which visibly increase contrast and light transmission for brighter deep space images and shorter exposure times. With StarBright XLT, you’ll be able to discern subtle details while viewing the Moon and planets as well as faint galaxies and nebulae.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe tube offers a focal ratio of f\/10 with the added versatility of Fastar (see below). You can also pair it with the f\/6.3 focal reducer for even more astroimaging options.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Celestron C11-A can be mounted on a multitude of computerized telescope mounts thanks to its CGEM-style dovetail bar. This flagship optical tube is sure to take your visual observing or imaging to the next level.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFastar Technology\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1997, CCDs were making a name for themselves in the astrophotography world, quickly supplanting traditional film photography thanks to their speed and convenience. This was the year that Celestron joined forces with the Santa Barbara Instruments Group (SBIG) to produce Fastar, a revolutionary add-on to Celestron’s hugely popular Schmidt-Cassegrain (SCT) optical system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith Fastar, the SCT’s secondary mirror can be removed and replaced with a field-flattening lens assembly (sold separately by third party manufacturers) so that a CCD camera can be used in the front of the telescope at the f\/2 focus of the instrument’s primary mirror. The potential of the Fastar system is staggering: exposures are 25 times shorter than if the camera was placed at the instrument’s native f\/10 focus. Imagers can capture galaxies and nebulae with exposures of just 30 seconds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor more information about our Fastar technology,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.celestron.com\/pages\/fastar-technology\"\u003evisit here\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.celestron.com\/university\/astronomy\/starbright-xlt-optical-coating-system\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStarBright XLT coatings\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStarBright XLT is Celestron’s revolutionary optical coating system. It consistently outperforms all other coatings in the commercial telescope market. There are three major components that make up our StarBright XLT high-transmission optical system design:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUnique enhanced multi-layer mirror coatings made from precise layers of aluminum, SiO2 (quartz), TiO2 (titanium dioxide), and SiO2 (silicon dioxide). Reflectivity is fairly flat across the spectrum, optimizing it for both imaging and visual observing.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMulti-layer anti-reflective coatings made from precise layers of MgF2 (magnesium fluoride) and HfO2 (hafnium dioxide). Hafnium—a rare element that costs nearly $2,000 per kilogram—gives us a wider band pass than the titanium used in competing coatings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHigh-transmission water white glass is used instead of soda lime glass for the corrector lens. Water white glass transmits about 90.5% of light without anti-reflective coatings; that’s 3.5% better than uncoated soda lime glass. When water white glass is used in conjunction with StarBright XLT’s anti-reflective coatings, the average transmission reaches an astonishing 97.4.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese three components make StarBright XLT one of the finest coatings available. For more information about our patented StarBright XLT coatings, visit\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.celestron.com\/university\/astronomy\/starbright-xlt-optical-coating-system\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Celestron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46382088421633,"sku":"91036-XLT-CGL","price":2633.33,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0755\/6857\/8817\/files\/91036-XLT_CGE_Pro_1100_1.jpg?v=1749504032"},{"product_id":"cgx-equatorial-1100-hd-telescope","title":"CGX Equatorial 1100 HD Telescope","description":"\u003cp\u003eCGX 1100 HD combines Celestron's CGX computerized equatorial mount with its acclaimed EdgeHD optical system. With an optical tube assembly weighing only 28 lbs., this telescope is still portable enough to be taken to dark skies, and has 89% more light gathering power than an 8\" telescope and 40% more than the 9.25\". For astrophotography, the CGX mount offers a sturdier, stouter platform, with a smoother, heavy-duty belt drive system, electronic and ergonomic features that favor worry free remote operation, plus advanced software.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSee the Universe in HD\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEdgeHD is an aplanatic, flat field Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope that produces aberration-free images across a wide visual and photographic field of view. The optical system was designed to reduce more than just off-axis star coma; it also provides an astrograph-quality flat focal plane all the way to the edge of the field-of-view.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTrue Astrograph Quality\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMany optical designs that advertise themselves as \"astrographs\" actually only produce pinpoint stars across a curved focal plane. While this may be acceptable for some visual observing, stars will appear out of focus at the edge when used with the flat chip sensor of a digital camera. EdgeHD optics produce a focal plane more than three-times flatter than a standard Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope and dramatically flatter than competing coma-free designs. This guarantees you visibly sharp stars across some of the largest CCD chips available today. \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.celestron.com\/pages\/edgehd-optics\"\u003eLearn more about EdgeHD technology.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImproved Performance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSuperior edge performance not only creates rounder, more pleasing stars, but actually improves the resolution and limiting magnitude when compared to telescopes of equal aperture. With Celestron’s StarBright XLT optical coatings on every surface, EdgeHD optics gives you maximum light throughput across the widest visual and photographic spectrum.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMechanical Features\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eIn addition to EdgeHD’s optimized optical design, the telescope tube has been redesigned to make sure you get the most from your optics each and every night.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMirror clutches\u003c\/strong\u003e - Flexible tension clutches hold the mirror in place and reduce image shift when taking long exposure astro-images. Once focused, the flexible rods allow the mirror to be held in place without putting any force or pressure on the mirror assembly, keeping the image centered in the eyepiece (or on the sensor).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTube vents\u003c\/strong\u003e - Cooling vents located on the rear cell allow hot air to be released from behind the primary mirror. Each vent has an integrated 50-mesh filter guaranteed to let warm air out without letting dust in.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFastar versatility\u003c\/strong\u003e - EdgeHD is the most versatile imaging telescope available today. At its native f\/10, you can achieve the image scale necessary to capture the smallest of deep sky objects. Add the optional reducer lens—custom-designed for your size EdgeHD tube—and you can increase your field of view without sacrificing optical performance. A Barlow gives you added power for high-resolution planetary, lunar and solar imaging. All EdgeHD optical tubes are Fastar-compatible, allowing the secondary mirror to be removed and replaced with a third party lens accessory for ultra-fast f\/2 wide field imaging.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIndividually Tested\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEvery EdgeHD that ships has been tested not only for the surface quality of each optical component, but also with a camera and artificial star to ensure the imaging system meets our rigid quality assurance. This “final acceptance test” confirms the EdgeHD will perform in the field and deliver high-quality astroimages\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCGX Mount\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCelestron’s workhorse CGEM mount lineup has been the German Equatorial backbone for telescopes ranging from 6 to 11 inches of aperture. Since that time, many more astro-imagers and planetarium controlled setups have emerged as backyard telescope technology has evolved. Celestron’s engineering team applied their years of experience designing German Equatorial mounts to the CGX EQ, a culmination of all the advancements made to our technologies, value, and ease-of-use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe CGX was designed to better support your telescope for both visual and astro-imaging pursuits. Key design goals included a lower profile EQ head, which provides a more compact and therefore more stable setup; a better drive system; remote operation-friendly with home and limit optical sensors; easier polar alignment adjustments; and better cable management. In addition to that, we’ve made mechanical and ergonomic improvements throughout to make the mount sturdier, easier to use, and transport. The CGX is our Equatorial backbone to support a wide range of telescopes.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Celestron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46382158184705,"sku":"12057-CGL","price":5916.66,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0755\/6857\/8817\/files\/12057_cgx_11_edgehd_kit_2.jpg?v=1749504880"}],"url":"https:\/\/celestron.co.uk\/collections\/for-the-pro-ready-to-go-big.oembed","provider":"Celestron Global Limited","version":"1.0","type":"link"}