The Celestron 8" f/2.0 Rowe-Ackermann Schmidt Astrograph?(RASA) is specifically designed for astrophotography and astro-imaging with a large aperture and fast focal ratio. Using four-element rare-earth optical glass lenses ensures accurate color rendition and eliminates aberrations such as coma and field curvatures. The improved StarBright XLT multi-coating system, which includes anti-reflection coatings on the lenses and highly reflective coatings on the mirrors, increases light transmission throughout the entire optical path. An integrated fan reduces cooldown time and provides optimal airflow through the optical tube assembly (OTA) while filtering harmful dust from the interior.





The astrograph design is defined by its fast focal ratio, which reduces exposure times without sacrificing image quality and gives you more time for multiple shots of the same object for layering or with different filters. Its internal Ultra-Stable focusing mechanism enables very precise focusing to clearly resolve topographic details on the Moon or split double stars and reveal details of most other celestial objects in between, while minimizing unwanted lateral movement of the primary mirror when focusing or slewing. Since this OTA is designed as an imaging scope, a 42mm camera T-adapter and C-mount imager adapter are included that are compatible with most camera-specific T-rings that are widely available.Celestron's CGX GoTo EQ Mount Head improves on their venerable CGEM platform to provide users with a heavy-duty research-quality mount for large optical tube assemblies (OTAs), accessories, and imaging rigs. Engineered to carry a 55-pound payload, it has high-torque motors and heavy-duty belt-drive system to improve tracking stability and reduce backlash which enable it to smoothly and accurately track near- and deep-sky objects for long periods of time. Its Vixen/Losmandy dual dovetail saddle makes the mount compatible with most plates in use today.





The brain of the CGX EQ is the NexStar computer controller. Equipped with a database of 40,000 objects, including the planets, stars, nebulae, galaxies, and the complete Messier catalog, it can also be programmed with up to 100 user-defined objects and filters for custom lists. Its intuitive menu-driven user interface allows you to observe the heavens with nine slew speeds and three tracking rates, plus anti-backlash compensation and Permanent Periodic Error Correction (PPEC) for smoother movements in the motors and improved tracking over time. Features such as guided tours, extended information on 200 popular objects, and multiple alignment options make the NexStar controller easy to use for new users and experienced stargazers.Designed to support their CGX equatorial mount, the Celestron CGX Tripod has large 2" diameter legs to provide a solid and sturdy platform for the mount head plus an optical tube assembly and accessories. To accommodate a variety of users, optical tube styles, and viewing positions, the legs can adjust from 47.25 to 77.5" and terminate with spikes to provide solid footing. Graduated markings on the lower leg sections enable you to accurately repeat settings, saving setup and leveling time if you observe from the same location every night. Adding greater stability and vibration suppression, the center accessory tray acts as a leg spreader to lock them in-place while providing a convenient place to keep eyepieces, filters, or your phone safe and close to hand. Two 11-pound counterweights come in the box to assist in properly balancing your OTA on the mount head.