Celestron Telescope Astrograph S 203/400 RASA 800 CGX GoTo (62269)

This astrograph is designed to make capturing breathtaking astrophotography effortless, whether you're using a modern DSLR or an astronomical CCD camera. Its innovative four-lens corrector system, made with rare earth glass, minimizes chromatic aberrations, coma, and field curvature. This results in exceptional optical quality and small spot sizes across the entire image field—unmatched in its price range. Additionally, its design ensures minimal vignetting.

• Super-fast 11" f/2.2 optics: Optimized for APS formats and sensor sizes up to a 70mm field diagonal.

• Extremely short exposure times: Captures images 20 times faster than at f/10! A 30-second exposure at f/2.2 is equivalent to a 10-minute exposure at f/10, eliminating the need for tracking control.

• Wide field of view: A 620mm focal length makes wide-angle shots simple while providing excellent coverage.

• Precise focusing mechanism: Equipped with bronze bearings to reduce image shift and a 10:1 FeatherTouch micro-focuser for accurate focusing.

• Innovative features: A quiet 12V MagLev fan ensures optimal cooling, dust protection, and air circulation. Adapters for various camera brands are included. Back focus for supplied camera adapters is 55mm; back focus for the front lens group is 69.26mm.

The RASA (Rowe-Ackermann-Schmidt Astrograph) is named after its designers, Dave Rowe and Mark Ackermann, who are renowned for their contributions to optical instrument design.

Important Note: The RASA 800 is not compatible with standard DSLR cameras due to its short back focus. It is recommended for use with mirrorless cameras or compact CCD/CMOS astronomical cameras.

CGX Equatorial Mount and Tripod

Celestron’s CGX mount represents a significant evolution in German Equatorial mounts, building on years of experience with the CGEM lineup. Designed for both visual observation and astrophotography, it incorporates advanced technology, improved mechanics, and user-friendly features.

Key Features of the CGX Mount:

• Enhanced stability: Sturdier design with quicker vibration dampening.

• Improved motors: Provide higher torque and smoother tracking under heavy loads.

• Belt-drive system: Reduces backlash while ensuring smooth motor operation.

• Precision engineering: Spring-loaded brass worm wheel and stainless steel worm gear minimize friction.

• Internal cabling: Prevents cable snags during slewing by keeping power input and accessory ports stationary.

• Home sensors and limit sensors: Ensure accurate indexing and prevent over-slewing or tripod strikes.

• Adjustable EQ head position: Optimizes the center of gravity and supports a latitude range of 3°–65°.

• Dual-fit saddle: Compatible with CG-5/Vixen and CGE/Losmandy dovetails.

Upgraded Tripod Features:

• Durable construction: 2" steel legs with height index marks for quick leveling.

• Accessory tray versatility: Holds eyepieces (1.25" and 2"), smartphones, or other accessories.

• Convenient transport: Legs can collapse with the accessory tray attached for faster setup.

Electronics Highlights:

• NexStar+ hand control with USB port.

• AUX accessory ports for wireless alignment or operation (compatible with StarSense AutoAlign and SkyPortal WiFi Module).

• USB 2.0 port for direct PC connection (software included).

• Autoguider port and PPEC-ready functionality.

• Internal real-time clock to save time/location data.

The CGX mount was engineered to accommodate modern astrophotography demands while remaining portable and user-friendly. Its compact EQ head provides stability, while improved cable management ensures seamless remote operation.

PWI Telescope Control Software

Developed in collaboration with PlaneWave Instruments, PWI software unlocks the full potential of Celestron's CGX mounts. By connecting the mount to your PC via USB, you gain access to advanced features like:

• PointXP Mount Modeling: Uses multiple reference stars for precise alignment, correcting errors such as device deflection for improved GoTo accuracy.

• Sky Viewer Star Chart: Simplifies locating celestial objects.

• Extensive Object Database: Includes access to SIMBAD’s online astronomical database.

The software runs on Windows 7, 8, and 10 systems. Future updates will bring additional features and enhancements.

Specifications

Optics
Type: Reflector
Build Type: Astrograph
Aperture (mm): 203
Focal Length (mm): 400
Aperture Ratio (f/): f/2
Resolving Capacity (arcseconds): 0.68
Light Gathering Power: 843x
Coating: StarBright XLT
Tube Material: Aluminum
Tube Length (mm): 628
Tube Weight (kg): 7.9

Mount
Type: Equatorial GoTo Mount (CGX)
Load Capacity (kg): 25
Weight (kg): 28.7
Motors: Servo motors with worm gear drive
Polar Elevation Range (°): 3–65
Cable Management: Internal

Electronics
Hand Control: NexStar+ with USB port
Interfaces: AUX ports (x2), USB 2.0 port, Autoguider port
Tracking Speeds: Sidereal, Solar, Lunar
Database Capacity: ~40,000 objects

Tripod
Material: Steel
Leg Diameter (mm): 51
Weight (kg): 8.7

Included Accessories
Finder Scope: 9x50 finder scope
Prism Rail Compatibility: Losmandy-style dovetail

This setup is ideal for advanced users or observatories focused on astrophotography or deep-sky imaging but not recommended for beginners or terrestrial observation without additional filters or modifications.