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Celestron CGX RASA 8 Computerised Telescope

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Celestron
050234120586
@media screen and (max-width: 600px) { .mobile-hide { display: none !important; } } @media screen and (min-width: 601px) { .desktop-hide { display: none !important; } }      This kit consists of the 8” Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) with Celestron's sleek CGX German equatorial mount. All you need is to simply attach your camera and you'll be taking spectacular astrophotography of wide-field deep sky objects in no time. Despite being the same size as the CGEM II, Celestron's CGX is a big step up in performance and features, especially for imaging applications.    RASA Performance Made for Everyone Capture spectacular wide-field deep sky images in seconds with Celestron’s new portable astrograph - the CGX Equatorial 800 RASA Telescope! This incredibly fast f/2.0 system is the perfect companion to today’s color astronomical CMOS cameras, smaller CCD cameras, and mirrorless cameras, and allows you to produce sharp, detailed images (skipping the autoguider completely in many cases). Furthermore, it's convenient and easy to transport at just under 8kg. Note that the 8" RASA is purely designed for imaging and cannot be used visually. The latest addition to the RASA family, this 8” version is a much more portable and affordable version of the famous RASA 11. It delivers the same quality flat field without optical abberations, allowing you to capture stunning deep-sky astronomical images without the difficulties of longer focal length instruments, doing so at a much lower cost! 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.   Shorter Exposure Times and Virtual “Real-Time” Observing Since 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. The RASA will show images on a computer instantly that are brighter and more detailed than those using much bigger telescopes with the naked eye.   Ultra-Stable Focus System Focusing is easier, more accurate, and more stable than ever! Celestron unveiled a new focuser design that mitigates lateral movement of the primary mirror when focusing or tracking. The key to their ultra stable focus system is two sets of precision bearings that are precisely aligned (and individually tested during assembly) to ensure perfect results.   Built for Today’s Latest Cameras Unlike the larger RASAs that are designed specifically for DSLR and large CCD cameras, the 8” RASA was specifically created 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, and 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.   Camera Compatibility Camera Compatible with RASA 8? Adapter required Astronomical CMOS/CCD camera with C-mount Yes C-mount adapter (included) Astronomical CMOS/CCD camera with other mount Yes M42 adapter (included) with M42 extension tubes (not included) Canon mirrorless with APS-C sensor Yes Custom camera adapter Canon mirrorless with APS-C sensor Yes Canon mirrorless adapter (sold separately) Sony mirrorless with APS-C sensor Yes Sony mirrorless adapter (sold separately) Canon mirrorless with full frame (42mm) sensor Yes, but not optimized across the full sensor Canon mirrorless adapter (sold separately) Sony mirrorless with full frame (42mm) sensor Yes, but not optimized across the full sensor Sony mirrorless adapter (sold separately) DSLR No --   Unique Optical Design RASA’s optical design is patented. 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 390-800nm. This allows more of the light emitted from the astronomical object to be sharply focused in the image. Celestron's engineers designed 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. All refractive optical surfaces are coated with StarBright XLT coatings, whilethe primary mirror uses enhanced aluminum coatings. This maintains high light transmission through the entire optical system.   CGX Mount and Tripod Features The new CGX was designed to better support your telescope for both visual and astro-imaging pursuits. It is Celestron's new equatorial backbone to support a wide range of telescopes. Sturdier and more rigid with quicker dampening time Increased load capacity to 25kg Improved motors provide more torque, better slewing and tracking under heavy loads Heavy duty belt-drive system minimizes backlash while providing smooth motor operation under heavy loads Spring-loaded brass worm wheel and stainless steel worm gear reduce friction and provide optimum gear mesh Internal cabling for worry-free remote operation. Power input and accessory ports remain stationary while the mount slews to avoid snags Internal hard stops for both axes prevents cable tension and tripod strike Internal optical sensors on both axes for simple and safe remote operation Home sensors allow the mount to always start in the index position regardless of orientation before a power reset Limit sensors automatically shut off slewing or tracking before reaching the hard stop fail safe Brand new control software developed for professional level control operation and imaging Software includes multi-point mount modeling for extremely precise pointing accuracy and many more additional features for remote astroimaging Wider tripod stance for improved stability Adjustable EQ head position to optimize center of gravity over the tripod and fully utilize the increased 3°-65° latitude range Dual-fit CG-5/Vixen and CGE/Losmandy dovetail saddle   Compatible With     Full Specifications Optical Tube Assembly (OTA) Optical Design Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) Aperture 203mm (8-inches) Focal Length 400mm (15.74-inches) Focal Ratio f/2.0 Light Gathering Power (Compared to Human Eye) 843x Resolution (Rayleigh) 0.68 Arc Seconds Resolution (Dawes) 0.57 Arc Seconds Image Circle 22mm (.86") Ø, 3.15° Usable Field 32mm (1.26") Ø, 4.6°Only Minimal Performance Loss at Edge of FOV Wavelength Range 400 - 800nm Spot Size < 4.6 μm RMS Across Image Circle Central Obstruction 93mm (3.66") Central Obstruction by Diameter 46% Optical Coatings StarBright XLT Off-Axis Illumination 93% at 11mm (.43") Off-Axis Optical Window 46mm (1.81") Ø Back Focus with Included Camera Adapter 25mm (0.98") Back Focus from Top of Threaded Collar 29mm (1.14") Focuser Ultra-Stable Focusing System (USFS) Other Features Air-Cooling SystemIntegrated Filter Mount Optical Tube Construction Aluminium Optical Tube Length 628mm (24.7") Optical Tube Diameter 235mm (9.3") Optical Tube Weight 7.7kg Dovetail CGE Dovetail Bar Computerised Mount Mount Type Computerised Equatorial (EQ) Payload Capacity 25kg Tripod Material Stainless Steel Height Adjustment Range (Including Mount and Tripod) 1200.15 - 1968.5mm Tripod Leg Diameter 50.8mm (2") Tripod Weight 8.7kg Accessory Tray Yes Mount Head Weight 20kg Slew Speeds 9 Slew Speds (Max Speed 4° / Second) Tracking Rates Sidereal, Solar and Lunar Tracking Modes EQ North, EQ South GPS N/A Dovetail Compatibility Dual Saddle Plates (CG-5 / CGE) Auxiliary Ports 2 Aux Ports Autoguide Port Yes USB Port Yes (Hand Controller Input) Power Reqiurements 12V DC 4A (Tip Positive) Motor Drive DC Servo Motors Alignment Procedures 2-Star Align, 1-Star Align, Solar System Align, Last Alignment, Quick Align Periodic Error Correction Yes Computerised Hand Controller Double Line, 18 Character Liquid Crystal Display; 19 Fiber Optic Backlit LED Buttons and USB 2.0 Port for PC Connection NexStar+ Database 40,000+ Objects with 100 User Defined Programmable Objects and Enhanced Information on Over 200 Objects Software CPWI Telescope Control Software, Celestron Starry Night Special Edition Software, SkyPortal App Total Kit Weight 56.3kg Warranty Celestron 2 Year Warranty   Recommended Accessories Celestron StarSense AutoAlign AccessoryAutomatically align your telescope in moments! With a StarSense AutoAlign Accessory, you will no longer need to align your telescope by manually inputting data. Celestron StarSense AutoGuiderA new autoguiding tool built for Celestron computerised telescopes. Not only can this be used to align your telescope in just 3 minutes, it improves your scope's tracking accuracy and replaces the need to get a separate guide scope and guide camera to do so.   Celestron NeXYZ Smartphone AdapterWith the Celestron NeXYZ Smartphone Adapter, you can take images or videos through your telescope eyepiece using your smartphone. This is a great way to get started in astrophotography. Celestron 1.25-inch Eyepiece and Filter KitExpand your viewing capabilities with a complete 1.25-inch eyepiece and filter kit! Includes 5 eyepieces, a 2x barlow lens and 7 filters, and a convenient carry case. saxon Optical Lens Cleaning KitKeep your telescope in top shape by protecting it from dust and debris! Celestron StarSense AutoAlign AccessoryAutomatically align your telescope in moments with this accecssory! Celestron StarSense AutoGuiderThis autoguider improves your scope's tracking accuracy and replaces the need to get a separate guide scope and guide camera. It can also be used to align your telescope in just 3 minutes! Celestron NeXYZ Smartphone AdapterTake images or videos through your telescope eyepiece using your smartphone. This is a great way to get started in astrophotography. Celestron 1.25-inch Eyepiece and Filter KitThis complete kit includes 5 eyepieces, a 2x barlow lens and 7 filters, and a convenient carry case. saxon Optical Lens Cleaning KitKeep your telescope in top shape by protecting it from dust and debris!   About Celestron Imagine a humble beginning – a 6-inch reflector telescope crafted by Tom Johnson for his young son. This was the spark that ignited a transformative journey. As time passed, his designs evolved into larger, more sophisticated scopes. Today, Celestron shines as an industry trailblazer, renowned for crafting precision optical equipment. From computerised marvels to traditional telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes and more, Celestron's portfolio is a universe of possibilities. With a legacy spanning over 50 illustrious years, Celestron has earned admiration from both avid hobbyists and dedicated astronomers worldwide. But they don't rest on their laurels; innovation propels them forward. They constantly broaden their product horizons while illuminating minds through global science education initiatives. Celestron's story is one of innovation, evolution and a passion for the cosmos. Join them on this extraordinary journey of discovery and inspiration. Product Code: 12058
SKU
CLS-12058
OUR PRICE $8,049.00
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    This kit consists of the 8” Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA) with Celestron's sleek CGX German equatorial mount. All you need is to simply attach your camera and you'll be taking spectacular astrophotography of wide-field deep sky objects in no time.

    Despite being the same size as the CGEM II, Celestron's CGX is a big step up in performance and features, especially for imaging applications. 

     

    RASA Performance Made for Everyone

    Capture spectacular wide-field deep sky images in seconds with Celestron’s new portable astrograph - the CGX Equatorial 800 RASA Telescope! This incredibly fast f/2.0 system is the perfect companion to today’s color astronomical CMOS cameras, smaller CCD cameras, and mirrorless cameras, and allows you to produce sharp, detailed images (skipping the autoguider completely in many cases). Furthermore, it's convenient and easy to transport at just under 8kg. Note that the 8" RASA is purely designed for imaging and cannot be used visually.

    The latest addition to the RASA family, this 8” version is a much more portable and affordable version of the famous RASA 11. It delivers the same quality flat field without optical abberations, allowing you to capture stunning deep-sky astronomical images without the difficulties of longer focal length instruments, doing so at a much lower cost! 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.

     

    Shorter Exposure Times and Virtual “Real-Time” Observing

    Since 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. The RASA will show images on a computer instantly that are brighter and more detailed than those using much bigger telescopes with the naked eye.

     

    Ultra-Stable Focus System

    Focusing is easier, more accurate, and more stable than ever! Celestron unveiled a new focuser design that mitigates lateral movement of the primary mirror when focusing or tracking. The key to their ultra stable focus system is two sets of precision bearings that are precisely aligned (and individually tested during assembly) to ensure perfect results.

     

    Built for Today’s Latest Cameras

    Unlike the larger RASAs that are designed specifically for DSLR and large CCD cameras, the 8” RASA was specifically created 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, and 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.

     

    Camera Compatibility

    Camera Compatible with RASA 8? Adapter required
    Astronomical CMOS/CCD camera with C-mount Yes C-mount adapter (included)
    Astronomical CMOS/CCD camera with other mount Yes M42 adapter (included) with M42 extension tubes (not included)
    Canon mirrorless with APS-C sensor Yes Custom camera adapter
    Canon mirrorless with APS-C sensor Yes Canon mirrorless adapter (sold separately)
    Sony mirrorless with APS-C sensor Yes Sony mirrorless adapter (sold separately)
    Canon mirrorless with full frame (42mm) sensor Yes, but not optimized across the full sensor Canon mirrorless adapter (sold separately)
    Sony mirrorless with full frame (42mm) sensor Yes, but not optimized across the full sensor Sony mirrorless adapter (sold separately)
    DSLR No --

     

    Unique Optical Design

    RASA’s optical design is patented. 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 390-800nm. This allows more of the light emitted from the astronomical object to be sharply focused in the image.

    Celestron's engineers designed 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.

    All refractive optical surfaces are coated with StarBright XLT coatings, whilethe primary mirror uses enhanced aluminum coatings. This maintains high light transmission through the entire optical system.

     

    CGX Mount and Tripod Features

    The new CGX was designed to better support your telescope for both visual and astro-imaging pursuits. It is Celestron's new equatorial backbone to support a wide range of telescopes.

    • Sturdier and more rigid with quicker dampening time
    • Increased load capacity to 25kg
    • Improved motors provide more torque, better slewing and tracking under heavy loads
    • Heavy duty belt-drive system minimizes backlash while providing smooth motor operation under heavy loads
    • Spring-loaded brass worm wheel and stainless steel worm gear reduce friction and provide optimum gear mesh
    • Internal cabling for worry-free remote operation. Power input and accessory ports remain stationary while the mount slews to avoid snags
    • Internal hard stops for both axes prevents cable tension and tripod strike
    • Internal optical sensors on both axes for simple and safe remote operation
    • Home sensors allow the mount to always start in the index position regardless of orientation before a power reset
    • Limit sensors automatically shut off slewing or tracking before reaching the hard stop fail safe
    • Brand new control software developed for professional level control operation and imaging
    • Software includes multi-point mount modeling for extremely precise pointing accuracy and many more additional features for remote astroimaging
    • Wider tripod stance for improved stability
    • Adjustable EQ head position to optimize center of gravity over the tripod and fully utilize the increased 3°-65° latitude range
    • Dual-fit CG-5/Vixen and CGE/Losmandy dovetail saddle

     

    Compatible With

     

     

    Full Specifications

    Optical Tube Assembly (OTA)
    Optical Design Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA)
    Aperture 203mm (8-inches)
    Focal Length 400mm (15.74-inches)
    Focal Ratio f/2.0
    Light Gathering Power (Compared to Human Eye) 843x
    Resolution (Rayleigh) 0.68 Arc Seconds
    Resolution (Dawes) 0.57 Arc Seconds
    Image Circle 22mm (.86") Ø, 3.15°
    Usable Field 32mm (1.26") Ø, 4.6°
    Only Minimal Performance Loss at Edge of FOV
    Wavelength Range 400 - 800nm
    Spot Size < 4.6 μm RMS Across Image Circle
    Central Obstruction 93mm (3.66")
    Central Obstruction by Diameter 46%
    Optical Coatings StarBright XLT
    Off-Axis Illumination 93% at 11mm (.43") Off-Axis
    Optical Window 46mm (1.81") Ø
    Back Focus with Included Camera Adapter 25mm (0.98")
    Back Focus from Top of Threaded Collar 29mm (1.14")
    Focuser Ultra-Stable Focusing System (USFS)
    Other Features Air-Cooling System
    Integrated Filter Mount
    Optical Tube Construction Aluminium
    Optical Tube Length 628mm (24.7")
    Optical Tube Diameter 235mm (9.3")
    Optical Tube Weight 7.7kg
    Dovetail CGE Dovetail Bar
    Computerised Mount
    Mount Type Computerised Equatorial (EQ)
    Payload Capacity 25kg
    Tripod Material Stainless Steel
    Height Adjustment Range (Including Mount and Tripod) 1200.15 - 1968.5mm
    Tripod Leg Diameter 50.8mm (2")
    Tripod Weight 8.7kg
    Accessory Tray Yes
    Mount Head Weight 20kg
    Slew Speeds 9 Slew Speds (Max Speed 4° / Second)
    Tracking Rates Sidereal, Solar and Lunar
    Tracking Modes EQ North, EQ South
    GPS N/A
    Dovetail Compatibility Dual Saddle Plates (CG-5 / CGE)
    Auxiliary Ports 2 Aux Ports
    Autoguide Port Yes
    USB Port Yes (Hand Controller Input)
    Power Reqiurements 12V DC 4A (Tip Positive)
    Motor Drive DC Servo Motors
    Alignment Procedures 2-Star Align, 1-Star Align, Solar System Align, Last Alignment, Quick Align
    Periodic Error Correction Yes
    Computerised Hand Controller Double Line, 18 Character Liquid Crystal Display; 19 Fiber Optic Backlit LED Buttons and USB 2.0 Port for PC Connection
    NexStar+ Database 40,000+ Objects with 100 User Defined Programmable Objects and Enhanced Information on Over 200 Objects
    Software CPWI Telescope Control Software, Celestron Starry Night Special Edition Software, SkyPortal App
    Total Kit Weight 56.3kg
    Warranty Celestron 2 Year Warranty

     

    Recommended Accessories

    Celestron StarSense Auto-Align Accessory Celestron StarSense AutoAlign Accessory
    Automatically align your telescope in moments! With a StarSense AutoAlign Accessory, you will no longer need to align your telescope by manually inputting data.
    Find Out More
    Celestron StarSense AutoGuider Celestron StarSense AutoGuider
    A new autoguiding tool built for Celestron computerised telescopes. Not only can this be used to align your telescope in just 3 minutes, it improves your scope's tracking accuracy and replaces the need to get a separate guide scope and guide camera to do so.
     Find Out More
    Celestron NeXYZ Smartphone Adapter Celestron NeXYZ Smartphone Adapter
    With the Celestron NeXYZ Smartphone Adapter, you can take images or videos through your telescope eyepiece using your smartphone. This is a great way to get started in astrophotography.
    Find Out More
    Celestron 1.25-inch Eyepiece and Filter Kit Celestron 1.25-inch Eyepiece and Filter Kit
    Expand your viewing capabilities with a complete 1.25-inch eyepiece and filter kit! Includes 5 eyepieces, a 2x barlow lens and 7 filters, and a convenient carry case.
    Find Out More
    saxon Optical Lens Cleaning Kit saxon Optical Lens Cleaning Kit
    Keep your telescope in top shape by protecting it from dust and debris!
    Find Out More
    Celestron StarSense Auto-Align Accessory Celestron StarSense AutoAlign Accessory
    Automatically align your telescope in moments with this accecssory!
    Shopping Cart Icon
    Celestron StarSense AutoGuider Celestron StarSense AutoGuider
    This autoguider improves your scope's tracking accuracy and replaces the need to get a separate guide scope and guide camera. It can also be used to align your telescope in just 3 minutes!
    Shopping Cart Icon
    Celestron NeXYZ Smartphone Adapter Celestron NeXYZ Smartphone Adapter
    Take images or videos through your telescope eyepiece using your smartphone. This is a great way to get started in astrophotography.
    Add to Cart Button
    Celestron 1.25-inch Eyepiece and Filter Kit Celestron 1.25-inch Eyepiece and Filter Kit
    This complete kit includes 5 eyepieces, a 2x barlow lens and 7 filters, and a convenient carry case.
    Add to Cart Button
    saxon Optical Lens Cleaning Kit saxon Optical Lens Cleaning Kit
    Keep your telescope in top shape by protecting it from dust and debris!
    Add to Cart Button

     

    About Celestron

    Imagine a humble beginning – a 6-inch reflector telescope crafted by Tom Johnson for his young son. This was the spark that ignited a transformative journey. As time passed, his designs evolved into larger, more sophisticated scopes. Today, Celestron shines as an industry trailblazer, renowned for crafting precision optical equipment. From computerised marvels to traditional telescopes, binoculars, spotting scopes and more, Celestron's portfolio is a universe of possibilities. With a legacy spanning over 50 illustrious years, Celestron has earned admiration from both avid hobbyists and dedicated astronomers worldwide. But they don't rest on their laurels; innovation propels them forward. They constantly broaden their product horizons while illuminating minds through global science education initiatives. Celestron's story is one of innovation, evolution and a passion for the cosmos. Join them on this extraordinary journey of discovery and inspiration.

    Product Code: 12058

    More Information
    Optical DesignRowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph (RASA)
    Aperture203mm (8")
    Focal Length400mm (15.74")
    Focal Ratiof/2.2
    Mount TypeGerman Equatorial
    Tube Length628mm (24.7")
    Electronic Hand ControlYes
    Motor DriveYes
    Warranty Information2 Years Warranty
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    1 x RASA 8-inch OTA

    1 x CGX Equatorial Head

    1 x CGX Tripod

    1 x Accessory Tray

    2 x 5kg Counterweights

    1 x NexStar+ Hand Control

    1 x 8mm Allen Wrench

    1 x 12V DC Power Cable

    1 x Hand Control Holster

    Is my camera compatible with the RASA 8?

    The below cameras are compatible.

    Camera Compatible with RASA 8? Adapter required
    Astronomical CMOS/CCD camera with C-mount Yes C-mount adapter (included)
    Astronomical CMOS/CCD camera with other mount Yes M42 adapter (included) with M42 extension tubes (not included)
    Canon mirrorless with APS-C sensor Yes Custom camera adapter
    Canon mirrorless with APS-C sensor Yes Canon mirrorless adapter (sold separately)
    Sony mirrorless with APS-C sensor Yes Sony mirrorless adapter (sold separately)
    Canon mirrorless with full frame (42mm) sensor Yes, but not optimized across the full sensor Canon mirrorless adapter (sold separately)
    Sony mirrorless with full frame (42mm) sensor Yes, but not optimized across the full sensor Sony mirrorless adapter (sold separately)
    DSLR No --