Celestron Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope SC 203/2032 EdgeHD 800 CGEM II GoTo (52282)

The Celestron EdgeHD series is a groundbreaking advancement in Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope design. These "aplanatic Schmidt-Cassegrain" telescopes are true astrographs, delivering distortion-free, sharp images across the entire visual field. Unlike many "coma-free" systems that only correct coma off the optical axis, EdgeHD telescopes also correct field curvature. This ensures pinpoint stars across the entire image field, making them ideal for astrophotography with larger sensors.

Key Features of EdgeHD Telescopes:

• Astrograph-Level Performance: Corrects both coma and field curvature for distortion-free stars across the entire field of view.

• Flat Image Plane: Eliminates image field curvature, preventing star distortions ("doughnuts") at the edges of photos taken with large sensors.

• Enhanced Coatings: The StarBright XLT multi-coating significantly boosts performance compared to similar systems on the market.

Improved Mechanical Design:

• Mirror Clamps: Secure the primary mirror in place without applying pressure, ensuring image stability during long exposures.

• Air Vents: Located behind the primary mirror to allow quick cooling of the optics while preventing dust ingress with an integrated air filter system.

EdgeHD telescopes are optimized for astrophotography but also deliver outstanding visual performance for lunar, planetary, and deep-sky observing.

CGEM II Mount

The CGEM II mount is an updated version of Celestron’s popular CGEM mount, offering improved ergonomics, dual dovetail compatibility (Losmandy and Vixen standards), a USB port, and a sturdier tripod. It is designed to support OTAs up to 11 inches (279mm) in aperture and is compatible with refractors and medium-sized Newtonian telescopes.

The dual saddle clamp securely holds telescopes without damaging the dovetail rail. The mount features All-Star Polar Alignment, allowing alignment using any star without requiring a polar finder or direct visibility of Polaris. With advanced tracking capabilities and a large celestial database, the CGEM II is ideal for astrophotography enthusiasts.

Additional Advantages of the CGEM II:

• Marked tripod legs for consistent height adjustment

• All-Star Polar Alignment for easy setup without Polaris visibility

• Large celestial database including deep-sky objects, double stars, and solar system objects

• Permanently Programmable Periodic Error Correction (PPEC)

• Backlit hand controller with USB port for firmware updates and PC connectivity

• Meridian tracking up to 30° for uninterrupted long-exposure astrophotography

The CGEM II sits between Celestron’s AVX and CGX mounts in terms of capacity and performance. It provides an excellent balance of carrying capacity, advanced features, and affordability, making it suitable for advanced astrophotographers.

Specifications:

Optics:

• Type: Reflector

• Type of Build: EdgeHD-Cassegrain

• Aperture: 203 mm

• Focal Length: 2032 mm

• Aperture Ratio (f/): 10

• Resolving Capacity: 0.57 arcseconds

• Limiting Magnitude: 13.3 mag

• Light-Gathering Capacity: 841x compared to the naked eye

Tube:

• Material: Aluminum

• Length: 432 mm

• Weight: 6.35 kg

Reflector:

• Secondary Mirror Obstruction (%): 34%

• Secondary Mirror Diameter: 69 mm

Focuser:

• Gear Reduction: No

• Connection to Eyepiece: 1.25 inches

Mount:

• Type of Build: Equatorial (CGEM II)

• GoTo Control: Yes

• Polar Elevation Setting Range: 15°–70°

Tripod:

• Material: Steel tripod with 51mm diameter legs

• Weight: 9 kg

GoTo System:

• Software Included: NexStar+ Hand Controller with USB connectivity

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

• Database: Over 40,000 celestial objects

Included Accessories:

• Counterweight: 1 × 7.7 kg

• Finder Scope: 9×50 finder scope

• Eyepiece: 25mm (1.25-inch format)

• Deviating Optics: 1.25", 90° star diagonal

• Cigarette Lighter Adapter: Yes

General Information:

• Series: CGEM II

• Total Weight (Mount + Tripod): 18 kg

• Load Capacity: Up to 18 kg

Applications:

• Astrophotography: Excellent performance

• Moon & Planets: Excellent performance

• Nebulae & Galaxies: Yes

• Nature Observation: Not recommended

• Sun Observation: Not recommended (requires appropriate solar filter)

Recommended Use: This telescope is ideal for advanced users seeking high-quality optics and robust astrophotography capabilities but is not recommended for beginners or observatory-level applications.

Manufacturer Details:
The EdgeHD telescope paired with the CGEM II mount offers exceptional performance for astronomers and astrophotographers looking for reliable equipment with advanced features at an affordable price point.