Celestron SC 279/2800 advanced VX AS-VX 11" GoTo telescope (33000)

This compact Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope combines a long focal length with a short optical tube assembly (OTA), making it highly portable and easy to transport. The optical system features a Schmidt corrector plate and spherical mirrors, delivering bright, high-contrast images with minimal stray light reflections. Its closed design prevents air turbulence and protects the optics from dust, ensuring consistently sharp views. The StarBright XLT multi-coating enhances light transmission, making this telescope ideal for planetary observation, deep-sky exploration, and astrophotography. With its robust yet lightweight aluminum construction, this telescope is easy to handle and does not require a heavy mount.

The Advanced VX mount is an excellent choice for mobile astrophotography, supporting telescopes weighing up to 14 kg. It features periodic error correction (PEC) for accurate long-exposure tracking and allows seamless tracking of objects beyond the meridian without interruptions. The mount’s wide base improves stability, while its high-torque motors compensate for small imbalances. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced astrophotographer, the Advanced VX mount provides an excellent platform for observing and capturing celestial objects.

Features of the Optics:

• Long focal length with a compact OTA design

• Lightweight aluminum OTA with StarBright XLT multi-coating

• Closed system prevents dust and air turbulence

• Pre-loaded ball bearings reduce mirror shift during focusing

• High contrast and definition for planetary and deep-sky observation

Specifications

Optics

• Type: Reflector

• Type of build: Schmidt-Cassegrain

• Aperture (mm): 279

• Focal length (mm): 2800

• Aperture ratio (f/): 10

• Resolving capacity (arcseconds): 0.41

• Limit magnitude: 14

• Light gathering capacity: 1590x compared to the human eye

• Max. useful magnification: 558x

• Tube weight (kg): 12

• Tube material: Aluminum

• Tube length (mm): 610

• Coating: StarBright XLT

Reflector Details

• Main mirror construction: Spherical

• Secondary mirror design: Spherical

• Secondary mirror obstruction (%): 34%

• Secondary mirror diameter (mm): 95

Focuser

• Type of build: Internal

• Connection to eyepiece: 2"

Mount

• Mounting type: Equatorial (AVX)

• GoTo control: Yes

• Motors: Servomotors with encoders

• Cable guide: External

• Polar elevation setting (°): 7 - 77°

• Load capacity (kg): 14 kg

GoTo Control Features

• Database entries: 40,000 objects

• Alignment methods: Quick Align, Solar System Align, 2-Star Align, etc.

Tracking Features and Interfaces:

• PEC correction: Yes

• Tracking speeds: Sidereal, solar, lunar modes available

• Connections: Autoguider, AUX ports, RS232 interface

Tripod Specifications:

• Material: Steel tripod legs with a diameter of 51 mm

• Height range (cm): 1118 - 1626 cm

Included Accessories:

• Finder scope (9x50)

• Eyepiece (40 mm, 1.25")

• Star diagonal (1.25", 90°)

• Counterweights (3 x 5 kg)

General Information:

• Total weight of the system (kg): 43 kg

• Suitable for observing the Moon, planets, nebulae, galaxies, and astrophotography

• Not suitable for solar observation without an appropriate solar filter

• Recommended for beginners and advanced users