Celestron Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope SC 279/2800 EdgeHD 1100 CGEM II GoTo (52286)

EdgeHD represents Celestron's innovative "aplanatic Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope," a significant evolution of the classic Schmidt-Cassegrain design after more than 50 years of success. These telescopes are true astrographs, delivering distortion-free, sharp images across the entire visual field. Unlike other "coma-free" designs, EdgeHD corrects both coma and field curvature, ensuring exceptional image quality from the center to the edge.

Many optical systems marketed as "astrographs" produce sharp stars but on a curved image plane, leading to distortions when using cameras with large sensors. EdgeHD telescopes eliminate this issue by providing a flat focal plane, ensuring pinpoint stars even at the edges of the image. This improvement significantly enhances resolution and magnitude limits compared to competing systems.

Celestron's XLT multi-coating further boosts light transmission and overall performance, making EdgeHD telescopes superior to similar models.

Mechanical Features of EdgeHD

• Mirror Clamps: Securely hold the primary mirror in place without exerting pressure on the optical elements, maintaining image stability during long exposures.

• Cooling Vents: Integrated air vents behind the primary mirror allow for rapid cooling while preventing dust entry through micromesh filters.

• Fastar Compatibility: Enables ultra-fast f/2 wide-field imaging by replacing the secondary mirror with third-party lens accessories.

• Improved Design: Precision mechanics simplify collimation, ensuring optimal performance every time.

CGEM II Mount

The CGEM II mount is an upgraded version of Celestron's widely popular CGEM mount. It features a sturdier tripod, USB connectivity, dual dovetail compatibility (Losmandy and Vixen standards), improved ergonomics, and updated firmware. Despite these enhancements, it retains the reliability of the original CGEM for astrophotography, supporting optical tube assemblies (OTAs) up to 11 inches in aperture.

Key Advantages of CGEM II

• Tripod Leg Markings: Allow consistent leg extension for easy setup and quick adjustment.

• All-Star Polar Alignment: Aligns the mount using any star without requiring a polar finder or direct view of Polaris.

• Extensive Database: Includes over 40,000 celestial objects cataloged by name and number, including popular deep-sky objects, double/triple stars, variable stars, and solar system targets.

• Permanently Programmable Periodic Error Correction (PPEC): Ensures smooth tracking for astrophotography.

• Hand Controller: Features a double-line LCD display with backlit buttons and USB connectivity for firmware updates.

• Meridian Tracking: Allows tracking beyond the meridian by up to 30°, avoiding interruptions during long exposures.

The CGEM II is positioned between Celestron's AVX and CGX mounts, offering an excellent balance between carrying capacity, performance, and price. It is ideal for advanced astrophotographers seeking a reliable workhorse mount.

Specifications

Optics
Type: Reflector
Build: EdgeHD-Cassegrain
Aperture: 279 mm
Resolving Capacity: 0.41 arcseconds
Focal Length: 2800 mm (f/10)
Coating: StarBright XLT

Mount
Type: Equatorial GoTo
Load Capacity: 18 kg
Motors: Servomotors
Polar Elevation Setting: 15°–70°

Included Accessories
Counterweights: 2 × 7.7 kg
Finder Scope: 9×50
Eyepiece: 16 mm (2")

The combination of EdgeHD telescopes with the CGEM II mount is perfect for astrophotography enthusiasts and advanced users looking for high performance and versatility in their equipment.