Celestron Telescope Astrograph S 279/620 RASA 1100 V2 CGX GoTo (52301)

This astrograph simplifies the process of capturing stunning photos with a modern DSLR or astronomical CCD camera. Its innovative optical design features a four-lens corrector made with rare earth glass, effectively reducing chromatic aberrations, coma, and field curvature. This level of optical quality and spot size across the entire image field is unprecedented in its price range. Additionally, the design minimizes vignetting.

Key Features:

• Super-Fast 11" f/2.2 Optics: Produces sharp images for APS formats and is optimized for sensor sizes up to a 70mm field diagonal.

• Extremely Short Exposure Times: The RASA Astrograph 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, making tracking control unnecessary.

• Wide Field of View: With a 620mm focal length, it excels at wide-angle shots while maintaining an overview.

• Excellent Focusing Mechanism: New bronze bearings reduce image shift, and the 10:1 FeatherTouch micro-focuser ensures precise focusing.

• Innovative Features: Includes a quieter 12V MagLev fan for optimal air circulation and dust prevention, along with adapters for popular camera brands. Back focus for included adapters is 55mm; back focus for the front lens group is 69.26mm.

The RASA (Rowe-Ackermann-Schmidt Astrograph) combines the expertise of renowned optical designers Dave Rowe and Mark Ackermann, who hold numerous patents. The new V2 version features the Ultra Stable Focus System (USFS), which moves the primary mirror for focusing without image shifting or tilting. A precise linear ball-bearing system controls this mechanism, and focusing can be further enhanced using the Celestron focusing motor.

Camera Compatibility:
This Schmidt astrograph offers a fully illuminated image circle of 43mm, ensuring pin-sharp stars even on large sensors (usable up to 52mm). Its large illuminated field and short focal length (620mm) make it ideal for astrophotography of expansive night sky areas and extended objects. It’s perfect for creating mosaics of the night sky or detecting variable stars, supernovae, or comets.

CGX Equatorial Mount and Tripod:

Celestron’s CGX mount builds on eight years of experience with their CGEM lineup, incorporating advancements in technology, value, and ease of use.

Mount Features:

• Sturdier design with quicker dampening time.

• Improved motors provide more torque and smoother slewing/tracking under heavy loads.

• Heavy-duty belt-drive system minimizes backlash while ensuring smooth operation.

• Spring-loaded worm wheel and stainless steel worm gear reduce friction and optimize gear mesh.

• Internal cabling prevents snags during remote operation; power input and accessory ports remain stationary while slewing.

• Home sensors allow precise starting positions regardless of prior orientation.

• Limit sensors prevent over-slewing or cable tension issues.

• Adjustable EQ head position optimizes center of gravity over the tripod and supports a latitude range of 3º–65º.

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

Tripod Features:

• Steel legs with height index marks for quick leveling.

• Accessory tray holds eyepieces, smartphones, or other tools; can remain installed during transport for convenience.

Electronics:

• NexStar+ hand control with USB port.

• Two AUX ports for wireless/WiFi alignment (compatible with StarSense AutoAlign or SkyPortal WiFi Module).

• USB 2.0 port for PC connection.

• Autoguider port and PPEC-ready functionality.

• Threaded 12VDC power input connector.

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

The CGX mount supports both visual observation and astrophotography. Its low-profile EQ head enhances stability, while improved drive systems, cable management, polar alignment adjustments, and ergonomic enhancements make it user-friendly and portable.

Control Software by PlaneWave Instruments:
Celestron’s CGX mounts are compatible with PWI Telescope Control software, which provides precision through PointXP Mount Modeling. This software uses multiple reference stars to enhance GoTo accuracy by accounting for alignment errors like device deflection.

Software Highlights:

• Accepts unlimited reference stars for high accuracy.

• Developed in collaboration with PlaneWave Instruments.

• Includes Sky Viewer star charts and access to extensive object databases (including SIMBAD online).

The software runs on Windows 7, 8, and 10.

Specifications:

Optics:

• Type: Reflector (Astrograph)

• Aperture: 279mm

• Focal Length: 620mm

• Aperture Ratio: f/2.22

• Coating: StarBright XLT

Mount:

• Type: Equatorial (CGX)

• Load Capacity: 25kg

• Motors: Servo motors with internal cabling

• Polar Alignment Range: 3°–65°

Tripod:

• Material: Steel

• Leg Diameter: 51mm

Included Accessories: Losmandy-style prism rail, cigarette lighter socket adapter.

This setup is ideal for advanced users seeking high-quality astrophotography capabilities or observatory-level performance.